"Although the Big 3 American carmakers have been offering substantial cash rebates as a way to move slow selling models, the Japanese have now succumbed to the pressure of doing the same. When you combine factory cash incentives with many hungry dealers willing to negotiate lower mark-ups, there is no question that the consumer can pick up some excellent bargains on higher priced vehicles." commented Paul Timoteo, President of Car Cost Canada.
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| Deals aren't only being offered in the luxury segment, the Nissan Maxima and others are being offered with $5000 in rebates. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Far from restricted to the luxury segment, incentives entice shoppers across the automotive spectrum. Recent examples of 2003 models: (Total Potential Savings including taxes in brackets) Fun & Funky - Chrysler PT Cruiser ($4500-$5000); Family Van - Pontiac Montana ($5000 - $6000,depending on model); Summer Sun - Chrysler Sebring Convertible ($5000-$6000); Sport Sedan - Nissan Maxima ($5000-$6000).
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| With thousands of dollars in savings already, prices could drop even lower as overall sales are down and summer approaches. (Photo: General Motors) |
With the potential to save thousands currently better than ever before, will consumers wait to see if opportunities get go even better? Seeing as overall vehicle sales are down almost 5.0% year to date, they may not have to wait long. Summer's around the corner and the industry is likely to go all out to clear dealer lots in anticipation of the annual vacation slowdown. Looks like the consumer is definitely in the driver's seat!
The ability to acquire dealer invoice pricing at a low price has made CarCostCanada.com (www.carcostcanada.com) an extremely popular resource for new car shoppers. The web site also offers information on hidden rebates, holdbacks, incentives and national average mark ups. According to Timoteo, "CCC levels the playing field for both consumers and dealers by providing information that removes the pressure cooker atmosphere normally associated with buying a new car."