2024 SUV Buying Guide: Clearance Edition

Understanding SUV Clearance Sales

SUV clearance sales occur as dealerships make room for the newest models. These sales typically offer substantial discounts on the current year’s vehicles, which remain brand new but must be sold to make way for the upcoming models. The end of the year, particularly the final quarter, is a hot period for these sales as dealers aim to meet annual targets and reduce inventory.

Timing Your Purchase

Optimal Timing: The best time to find clearance deals is typically between September and December. During this period, dealerships are under pressure to clear their inventory, which can lead to better bargaining power for the buyer.

Model Year Changeover: Pay attention to when a specific SUV model is due for a major update or a new generation release. Dealers will be more motivated to offer discounts on outgoing models to clear space for the new iterations.

Where to Look for 2024 SUV Clearance Sales

1. Dealership Websites: Start your search on the websites of local dealerships. Most dealers will advertise special deals prominently on their homepage or dedicated sales sections.

2. Online Car Shopping Sites: Websites like Autotrader, Cars.com, and Edmunds allow you to filter searches for new cars by year and discounts, helping you identify which dealerships are offering clearance prices on SUVs.

3. Automaker Promotions: Visit the websites of popular SUV manufacturers like Ford, Honda, Toyota, and Chevrolet. They often have special promotional events and may offer additional incentives like rebates or low-interest financing.

Examples of Expected 2024 SUV Clearance

Ford Explorer: Originally priced at around $36,000, you might find clearance models discounted to about $30,000, saving you $6,000.

Honda CR-V: With an initial price tag of approximately $28,000, clearance sales could bring the price down to around $24,500, offering a savings of $3,500.

Chevrolet Tahoe: If the original price is near $50,000, a clearance event could reduce the price to around $43,000, saving you $7,000.

Toyota RAV4: Typically listed at $27,000, during a clearance sale, the price might drop to about $23,000, saving you $4,000.

Tips for Making Full Use of SUV Clearance Sales

Negotiate: Even clearance prices can sometimes be negotiated down further, especially if the dealership is eager to meet sales quotas.

Check for Incentives: Always ask about additional incentives such as cash-back offers, low APR financing, or special packages that might be available.

Be Prepared: When you go to the dealership, be ready to make a deal. Pre-approval for a loan, knowledge of your credit score, and understanding the fair price for the SUV you want will put you in a stronger negotiating position.

Consider Previous Model Years: Sometimes dealerships still have new vehicles from one or two model years ago. These can offer even deeper discounts.

Conclusion

Finding the best deals during a 2024 SUV clearance requires a mix of strategic timing, thorough research, and effective negotiation. By following these guidelines, you can drive away in a new SUV that fits both your needs and your budget.