Save Thousands on New ‘Leftover’ Cars From 2016

Now is the time to save big on a new car.

Auto pricing gurus at Edmunds.com say shoppers will find major discounts on many sought-after models between now and Labor Day. That’s because dealers can’t move incoming 2017 models onto their lots until they clear out 2016 models. What better way to make room than to slash prices?

“Many of these vehicles are great cars that earned strong ratings and praise from Edmunds editors, so we’d recommend them even if they didn’t come with heavy discounts,” said Ronald Montoya, consumer advice editor at Edmunds.

Montoya notes that when an automaker redesigns a car, the outgoing model may depreciate more quickly in the short term. But he says that if you plan to keep the car for more than five years, “depreciation will have little — if any — effect.”

Here are Edmunds’ picks for the “Best New-Car Leftovers for 2016”: ­

2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan (redesign)

Even luxury car shoppers can appreciate a bargain, and the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-class delivers.

Mercedes lovers know that the beloved E-class sedan is poised to roll into showrooms as a redesigned model in 2017.

That doesn’t mean past models of the top rated midsize luxury sedan are lacking. Car and Driver gave the E-class sedan a 4.5 out of 5 stars noting “the E-class caters to those who’d rather waft along in the lap of luxury.”

As part of the Edmunds Price Promise program — which helps buyers lock in on a price — Edmunds noted it spotted a number of deals between $7,000 to $10,000 off MSRP for the sedan. “While E-class sedan shoppers are more likely to lease than buy, a lower selling price usually translates to a better lease deal,” Edmunds said.

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2016 Hyundai Genesis (rebranded as Genesis G80)

If you can’t pony up for the Mercedes, Edmunds suggests you consider the 2016 Hyundai Genesis. Edmunds gave the luxury car a 5-star review. Edmunds reported Price Promise offers of $3,000 to $5,500 off MSRP on this model.

Another good reason to shop for this car is that Hyundai is creating “Genesis Motors,” an in-house luxury brand, reports Edmunds. Expect the 2017 Hyundai Genesis to sport many of the same features as this year’s model but be named Genesis G80.

2016 Buick LaCrosse (redesign)

Don’t pass by the 2016 Buick LaCrosse. It’s a comfortable, solid full-size sedan that ranked No. 2 in Large Cars (edged out by the Chevrolet Impala) reviewed by U.S. News & World Report. A spacious, comfortable interior and quiet, controlled ride were some of the pluses reported by U.S. News. Edmunds reports it currently shows Price Promise offers with as much as $6,200 off MSRP.

2016 Cadillac SRX (replaced by XT5)

Yes, Cadillac enthusiasts are looking forward to the automaker’s refreshed 2017 SUV that will go by the name Cadillac XT5. This car isn’t top in accolades. Critics gripe about its poor fuel economy (16-17 mpg city and 23-24 mpg highway) and confusing infotainment system. An analysis by U.S. News & World Reports finds auto journalists praise its power, high-end interior and smooth handling.

Edmunds reports “a few Price Promise offers of $8,000 off MSRP, once the incentives are factored in.”

2016 Subaru Impreza (redesign)

The Subaru Impreza is another successful model receiving a facelift prior to its 2017 model year debut. There’s no reason to pass up the 2016 model, though. It offers all-wheel drive, up to 37 mpg fuel efficiency and is easy to drive, reports Kelley Blue Book.

Edmunds notes that the Impreza has a small price window between its MSRP and its invoice price. Smaller cars garner less profit for dealers, so it’s not surprising Edmunds reports you can expect “to see offers around $900 to $1,100 off MSRP, but that could change in the coming months if incentives are added.”

Chrysler 200 (discontinued)

Edmunds was one of the major outlets that praised the 2016 Chrysler 200 Sedan for its high-quality interior, powerful engine and style. Even they admitted the car’s small interior and less than powerful performance were lacking. Still, it is a strong enough contender to win a “B” rating from Edmunds.

Edmunds recommends this car, reporting buyers should see roughly $3,000 to $6,000 off MSRP.

2016 Dodge Dart (discontinued)

The Dodge Dart was one of those European-styled cars that some critics loved and others loathed. Edmunds found it about average, giving the 2015 model a “C” rating. Edmunds notes the Dart is attractive, boasts an excellent infotainment system but has too many quirks to be a solid pick. Reviewers at Kelley Blue Book praised the car’s exterior styling, European driving character and personalization options.

Edmunds expects discounts from $3,000 to $4,000 off MSRP.

2016 Kia Cadenza (redesign)

Although the Kia Cadenza will be redesigned for 2017, the 2016 models suit Edmunds reviewers just fine. The Edmunds group praised its hearty V6, luxury interiors and simple-to-use infotainment systems.

One problem: Edmunds warns there aren’t many in stock, so if you want one, get it. Edmunds didn’t estimate discounts but notes they’ll likely be thousands below invoice.

2016 Toyota Highlander (refresh)

Toyota is refreshing the Highlander for its 2017 model year, but you’ll find plenty to love on the 2016 model of the crossover. Edmunds gave it an “A” rating for its silky engine and solid power. Car and Driver praised its accurate steering and interior niceties.

Edmunds reports Highlanders are plentiful. Current savings are predicted to be in the $2,000 to $3,000 range but expected to tumble as the year comes to a close.

Some of the discounted offers on 2016 vehicles are regional, so shoppers are urged to check Edmunds Price Promise offers and incentive information to see what is available in their area.

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