August Smart Deals: Cash for Clunkers Edition

Got a clunker, but don’t know what to buy?

Fear not, we’ve done some of the work for you. Thanks to the government’s Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save (CARS) program, also known as Cash for Clunkers, right now is a great time to buy a car. While the CARS program provides either a $3,500 or $4,500 credit, several manufacturers are adding incentives on top of the government cash. Be aware that the dealer has nothing to do with the government money, so you should still barter for the best deal. For instance, factory to dealer marketing support, as offered on several of the models featured, is money that the factory pays to the dealer to sell a car. If you know about this incentive, the dealer will be willing to give up most or even all of that cash to sell the car. On the following pages, you’ll find several enticing cars you can buy with Clunkers cash. Where applicable, current factory and dealer incentives are listed with each model, as is the bottom line price when CARS cash (we've assumed the $4,500 amount) is considered. Happy shopping!

Photos couresy repsective manufacturers