Saving money on a new car these days may seem like an exercise in futility, but it is possible. No, you may not be able to get thousands off the MSRP like in the good old days, but something is better than nothing. In fact, the closer you get to the suggested retail price, the better.
Consumer Reports knows this, so they’ve put together a list of the best new car deals you can probably get this coming Labor Day weekend. Check out the following cars to see if they deserve a spot in your garage this weekend.
2022 BMW X3 xDrive 30i AWD – MSRP: $45,700, average price paid: $45,143
That’s right, if you act fast this weekend, you might be able to get as much as $557 off the MSRP of a 2022 BMW X3 xDrive 30i AWD. Well worth it, as the X3 has just been redesigned and is hailed by many as one of the best driving luxury SUVs on the market.
Consumer Reports also sings its praises: “One of the first things you notice about the X3 is how quiet and pampering the cabin is and how supportive the seats are.” Comfort aside, the 2022 X3 is also roomier and more efficient than the model it replaced.
2022 RAM 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab – MSRP: $47,915, Average Price Paid: $48,316
While it may not sound appealing to pay $401 over the MSRP, remember that you are buying one of the most capable trucks on the market. The RAM 1500 delivers plenty of V8 power using a mild-hybrid system. It also has full-time four-wheel drive, coil-spring rear suspension and a remarkably quiet cabin. Now you know where that extra $400 goes.
2022 Volkswagen Atlas – MSRP: $45,855, Average Price Paid: $46,523
The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is a three-row SUV with more space in the second and third rows than its competitors. It is super comfortable and gives a premium feel and a quiet ride. Towing capacity comes in at 5,000 pounds and it can sprint to 60 mph in just 8.7 seconds. That’s not bad for a large SUV, even if it charges a $668 premium over the sticker price.
2022 Cadillac XT5 Luxury AWD – MSRP: $45,995, Average Price Paid: $46,725
If German luxury isn’t your thing, the Cadillac XT5 could be your speed. The XT5 offers a unique alternative to its rivals with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, exceptionally comfortable front seats and sharp styling. You may have to pay a little more than the suggested retail price, but the XT5’s deluxe amenities may be worth the extra bucks.
2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium – MSRP: $55,040, Average Price Paid: $56,291
If you can find a 2022 Toyota Supra for $1,251 above MSRP, you’re doing pretty well. In our national search on car gurus, we found many Supra 3.0 models selling for nearly $60,000. Either way, you have a fast sports car that is easy to drive on a daily basis.
2022 Lexus GX 460 AWD – MSRP: $56,125, Average Price Paid: $57,405
We recently reviewed and praised the 2022 Lexus GX 460 for its unparalleled off-road capability and luxurious cabin. No, it’s not as plush as its older brother LX, but it’s still more chic than your average Toyota 4Runner. Normally it would sound ridiculous to pay $1,280 over the MSRP, but in the case of the GX460, it’s worth the extra cost.
Is paying more than the suggested retail price really worth it?
Yes, in this market. However, if you can afford the MSRP for any car on the market, you’re ahead of the game. The above-mentioned cars are excellent examples because they are in high demand nationwide. But if you can find a good deal on any of them — whether you’re paying above or below the sticker price — this Labor Day weekend is the time to strike while the iron is hot.
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