The final quarter of 2019 lurches into its middle phase this weekend as November takes hold and, with it, a whole new round of incentives and reasons to check out a dealership if buying a new car is on the brain. Before you do, get yourself educated with our list of links below — you’ll find everything you need, from the research process and recently reviewed models hitting the market to negotiating and financing once you’ve finally committed. Read on for more.
What car should I buy? That depends on a lot of factors, and our reviews can help.
Pickup trucks: GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Ram 3500 Tradesman
SUVs: Lincoln Corsair, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mercedes-Benz GLC and AMG GLC63, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Ford Edge
Sedans: Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, BMW 3 Series, Kia Optima
Hatchback: Mini Cooper Hardtop
Hybrid: Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Wagons: Subaru Outback, Volvo V60 Cross Country
Electric: Nissan Leaf
Performance: Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R, Dodge Charger Scat Pack and Hellcat Widebody, Ford Mustang, BMW 850i, Lexus RC F Track Edition
SUVs: Lincoln Corsair, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mercedes-Benz GLC and AMG GLC63, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Ford Edge
Sedans: Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, BMW 3 Series, Kia Optima
Hatchback: Mini Cooper Hardtop
Hybrid: Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Wagons: Subaru Outback, Volvo V60 Cross Country
Electric: Nissan Leaf
Performance: Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R, Dodge Charger Scat Pack and Hellcat Widebody, Ford Mustang, BMW 850i, Lexus RC F Track Edition
Should I buy new or used? Read up on the pros and cons of each. If you go used, review our used-car buyers’ checklist and consider whether you want a certified pre-owned car.
How much can I afford? Read our primer. Then use our Price Comparison Tool while you shop to find what’s right for you.
Should I finance, lease or pay cash? That depends, but this might help you decide. How do I get the best lease rate? Bone up on common lease terminology, plus our tips.
How do I get the best financing rate? Our game plan lays out some advice. While you’re at it, here’s what you need to know about auto loans and what you’ll need to get one.
Anything I shouldn’t do when I’m at the dealer? Yep. Avoid these pitfalls.
Should I get an extended warranty? That depends.
How do I sell or trade in my old car? Learn how to prep your car before you sell it to a dealer, how to trade it in and how to deal with taxes and other considerations. If you still owe money on your old car, read this. Finally, if you want to sell it private party, here’s how to create the picture-perfect ad and how to seal the deal.