Everywhere.

Nearly every car company is currently offering incentives of some kind. Deals are actually not hard to find if you know where to look.

Some of these deals are outstanding, some very good, and others only so-so.

Luxury Brands

High-end luxury car companies, such as Porsche, Audi, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Mercedes, don’t normally offer common incentives for fear of looking like a discount car brand. When they do, it’s in the form of “bonuses” or “allowances” but not “rebates.” Or it might be in the form of special leases, where the “discounting” is not so obvious.

For example, at the time of this writing, Mercedes is offering a number of very attractive lease deals across its model lines. They are also offering 1.9% APR loan deals but in these days of record-low finance rates, 1.9% is good but not really an outstanding deal, especially when it’s limited to 24-36 month loans. The lease deals are better.

Same for Infiniti, who is currently (January 2012) offering a number of very good lease deals (all $0 cash due at signing) on all 2012 models except hybrids, and 1.9% APR loans for up to 60 months (better than Mercedes). Depending on where you live, there may be deals on left-over 2011 models.

Audi currently has no incentives for January (at the time of this writing) but even those for December 2011 were not very interesting – a few mediocre lease deals in which they make the first month’s payment and waive the security deposit (who doesn’t). Not much to get excited about.

BMW actually has some outstanding lease deals going on at this time (see New BMW Lease Offers for January) and some factory-to-dealer cash on a few models that translate into purchase price discounts.

Acura offers good lease deals on one selected style within each of its model lines. These are of the $0-$0-$0 variety ($0 down, $0 first payment, $0 security deposit) and are genuinely good deals.

Lexus has no deals worth mentioning, except possibly on a few left-over last-year’s models, or certified used cars.

Land Rover has lease deals on the Ranger Rover Sport and LR4 that are only rated Good by LeaseGuide.com, as well as 1.9% APR loan rates for only 36 months. Nothing here to jump up and down about.

Non-Luxury Brands

The very best deals in 2012 will come from American car brands such as Ford, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, GMC, and Ram. They offered some of the best incentives in the business in 2011 and are expected to do the same or better in 2012.

The most recent deals from these American companies include generous rebates, 0% APR loans (and other low-interest loans), special lease deals (although usually not as good as foreign car brands), and factory-to-dealer cash that dealers use to discount prices. Cadillac is offering a number of good $0 down leases. Left-over 2011 models are especially good deals right now.

At this time, Honda and Toyota are offering a few good deals, especially on leases, but you’ll have to wait until they’ve fully recovered from last years disasters in Japan before you see the best deals. Honda continues to offer their popular “$0 due at signing“ leases. These are genuinely good lease deals — much better than customers could negoitate for themselves.

Hyundai is coming on strong with some great deals on selected models. Their award-winning Elantra model is now being offered with a special lease deal (see Car of the Year for Only $179).

Nissan has 0% APR loan rates — for up to 60 months — on nearly every model, including 2012 and left-over 2011 models.

Subaru’s current incentives include 42-month lease deals on one style of each of its models or 1.9% APR loan rates. However, we don’t recommend 42-month leases on vehicles that only have 36-month warranties. You’re exposed for 6 months to paying for expensive out-of-warranty repairs near the end of the lease.

Mazda currently has a whole variety of new incentives including a number of moderately attractive 36 month leases with relatively low down payment requirements, a few 1.9% APR loan deals for up to 60 months, and a number of 0.0% APR loan deals that are combined with up to $1000 customer cash (rebate).

Mitsubishi is offering outstanding 24-month leases on its 2012 Lancer ES and SE ($189/month) and Lancer Sportback ES ($196/month). There are also 0% APR loan deals for up to 36 months on 2012 models and up to 60 months on 2011 models. Also available are rebates of up to $3500 on 2011 models and customer loyalty bonuses of $500. All in all, a nice set of deals from Mitsubishi.

Volkswagen usually has a nice selection of special lease deals across its model line. These are nearly always good deals and are better than customers could negotiate for themselves. They also offer a number of 0% APR loans for up to 72 months, which is a bit unusual.

Saab, the car company, has filed bankruptcy but dealers still have left-over vehicles at low, low prices.

Fiat has announced new $0 down leases its 500 and 500c models.

Deals Can Change

As you probably already know, car deals and incentives can (and usually do) change month-to-month, and sometimes week-to-week. Deals can vary depending on the region of the country you live in and can differ by dealer.

One of the best ways to know exactly what deals are best in your area is to use an online service such as TrueCar that not only shows you what local people are paying for specific car makes and models, but also the lowest price you should expect to pay, factoring in all current incentives. It’s free and they give you a guaranteed price quote that will be honored at local dealers.

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To help dealers sell surplus 2011 inventory, Chrysler is currently giving dealers “hidden” factory-to-dealer cash for each 2011 vehicle sold. Dealers can use this cash almost any way they choose but most of it goes back to customers in the form of big price discounts. This money is sometimes called, “marketing support.”

Chrysler’s current (November 2011) dealer cash offerings are the largest in the industry and apply to nearly every 2011 model vehicle.  Furthermore, each of the vehicles also has a $1000 “conquest” bonus rebate which applies if a customer has at least one non-Chrysler vehicle in his household. It doesn’t have to be a trade-in.

What this means is that customers who are in the market for a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep have an opportunity to get one of the best deals of the year out there right now in these “clearance” sales. These are all good deals because there are relatively minor differences between most 2011 and 2012 models.

Let’s take a look at the Chrysler factory-to-dealer cash offers available in November. By the way, if there are still significant numbers of 2011 vehicles still available in December and January, expect these incentives to continue into those months, but supplies and selections may be more limited.

2011 Chrysler 200 – $1000-$3000 depending on specific model

2011 Chrysler 300 – $3000-$4500 depending on specific model

2011 Chrysler Town & Country - $3000

2011 Dodge Avenger – $1000-$3500 depending on specific model

2011 Dodge Caliber – $1500

2011 Dodge Challenger- $2000

2011 Dodge Charger R/T – $2500

2011 Dodge Durango Citadel 2WD – $4000

2011 Dodge Durango Crew 4dr 2WD – $3500

2011 Dodge Durango Express, Heat, R/T – $2500

2011 Dodge Durango Citadel 2WD – $4000

2011 Dodge Dakota – $4500

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan – $2500

2011 Dodge Journey – $2500

2011 Dodge Nitro – $3000

2011 Dodge Ram 1500 – $3500-$5250 depending on specific model

2011 Dodge Ram 2500 – $5000

2011 Dodge Ram 3500 – $5000

2011 Jeep Compass – $2000

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee – $2000

2011 Jeep Liberty – $3000

2011 Jeep Patriot – $2000

2011 Jeep Wrangler (except Unlimited Sport RHD) – $1000

Since these discounts are being funded by dealers’ parent company, Chrysler Corp., it’s only fair that the dealer himself should also contribute an additional discount from his own pocket. Be sure to ask if you go in for one of these deals.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler vehicles from Edmunds.comThe quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

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November brings a number of large rebates, especially on left-over 2011 models.

Typically, rebates only apply to selected models and styles, and only for a limited time.

Dealers apply rebates at the time of purchase. Rebates act as a down payment and reduce the amount a customer pays.

Rebate amounts can vary, depending on how strongly the manufacturer wants to promote that particular model.  

Let’s take a look at some of the biggest and most attractive rebate offers for November 2011:

2012 Jeep Liberty – $3000

2011 Chrysler 200 – $4000

2011 Ford Flex – $3000

2011 Lincoln Town Car – $3000

2012 Chevrolet Impala – $3000

2011 Buick Lucerne – $4000

2011 Buick LaCrosse, Regal – $3000

2011 Cadillac Excalade EXT – $4000

2011 Chevrolet Silverado – up to $4500

2011 Chevrolet Avalanche – $4500

2011 Chevrolet Impala – $4000

2011 Chevrolet HHR – $3500

2011 Chevrolet Corvette, Malibu – $3000

2011 GMC Sierra 1500 – up to $4500

2011 GMC Yukon – $3500

2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD, 3500HD – $3000

2012 Mitsubishi Galant – $3000

2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor – $4500

2011 Mitsubishi Galant – $3500

2012 Nissan Titan – up to $3000

2011 Nissan Titan – up to $5250

2011 Nissan Armada – $4000

2011 Nissan Frontier – up to $3000

2011 Suzuki Equator – $3000

Since car companies are the ones funding rebates, customers should dealers to also contribute with an additional price discount funded from his own pockets. Dealer discounts on top of manufacturers’ rebates make for some very sweet deals.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above vehicles from Edmunds.comThe quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

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For example, you can get 2011 models of the Chrysler 200, 300, and Town and Country with large factory-to-dealer cash, which as you may know is money given to dealers by car manufacturers that is usually given to customers as a price discount. There are also customer rebates on the same models, which makes for some very good deals.

Let’s take a look at the details:

2011 Chrysler 200 – up to $1000 rebate and up to $3000 factory-to-dealer cash, depending on style

2011 Chrysler 300 – up to $1000 rebate and up to $4500 factory-to-dealer cash, depending on style

2011 Chrysler Town and Country - $1000 rebate and $3000 factory-to-dealer cash

2012 Chrysler 200 – up to $2000 rebate, depending on style

2012 Chrysler 300 – up to $1500 rebate, depending on style

2012 Chrysler Town and Country – $1000 rebate

In addition to the rebate and factory cash incentives for November, you can also get 0% APR loan deals for 36 months. However, you probably already know that you can’t take a rebate and a 0% loan deal at the same time. You must select one or the other. Here’s an article that can help you decide which to choose: 0% APR Loan Deals – Good Deal or Not?

You may also know that 0% APR loans are only available to “qualified” customers who have good credit. You should already know your latest credit score before you visit a dealer to get one of the deals. Your credit score is available online at FreeCreditScore.com with a quick signup.

Also know that you can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler vehicles from Edmunds.comThe quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

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In any given month, some manufacturers really want customers to buy, offering very large rebates that represent a significant discount off of sticker price.  These are deals worth considering if you are in the market for a new car.

Rebates are applied at the time a customer buys a car and, in effect, reduce the amount of money needed to purchase the car although, technically, do not reduce the price as would an ordinary price discount. This may seem a trivial distinction but rebates are therefore taxable while discounts are not. In other words, you pay the same sales tax on a car with a rebate as on the same car without a rebate. Just so you know.

Oftentimes, a car manufacturer will offer rebates and low-interest loans at the same time. Customers must choose one or the other, but not both. Generally, large rebates are preferable — and the customer doesn’t have to “qualify” with a high credit score as he does with the low-interest loan.

Here are some of the best rebates being offered for October 2011. In some cases, particularly with the Ford offers, the total rebate may consist of multiple separate rebates and bonuses, such as a trade-in bonus.

• 2011 Chrysler 200 – up to $3000
• 2011 Dodge Journey – $3500
• 2011 Dodge Nitro – $3000
• 2011 Jeep Liberty – $5000
• 2011 Ford Expedition – $5000
• 2011 Ford F-150 and Edge – up to $4000
• 2011 Ford Flex – $3000
• 2012 Chevrolet Impala – $3000
• 2011 Buick Lucerne – $3000
• 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Avalanche – up to $4500
• 2011 Chevrolet Impala and HHR – $3500
• 2011 Chevrolet Colorado – up to $3000
• 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 – up to $4500
• 2011 GMC Canyon – up to $3000
• 2011 Kia Sedona – $6000
• 2011 Mitsubishi Endeavor – $4500
• 2011 Mitsubishi Galant – $3500
• 2011 Suzuki Equator – $3000
• 2011 Toyota Tundra – up to $3250

You can get free price quotes on any of the above cars from Edmunds.comThe quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

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Because of shortages of both vehicles and parts created by the recent Japanese earthquake, automakers are not offering nearly the number of great incentives in June that we were seeing in the first months of 2011.

However lets take a look at where you can still find some good deals. Most of the deals expire on June 30, 2011. A few expire on July 5, 2011.

BMW is offering low APR interest rates (1.9%-3.9%) on the 2012 1-Series, 7-Series, X5, and X6 models. The company is also offering 0.9%-3.9% APR loan rates on 2011 models of the 3-Series, X5, Z4 7-Series, M3, 5-Series, 1-Series M, and X3. There is also a $3500 “Eco Credit” on some diesel models including the 2011 335d sedan, as well as special “Option Credits” available on many models (BMW doesn’t like to call them “rebates” — it sounds too cheap). Up to $2000 in factory-to-dealer cash is available on selected 7-Series models. Additionally, BMW is offering many excellent promotional lease deals in nearly every model line.

Chrysler has announced a few rebates and a number of low-interest loans, including 0% APR rates, across its 2011 model lines. These deals expire on August 1, 2011. Up to $1500 rebate or 0% APR loan is available on the Chrysler 200, 300, and Town & Country. 0% APR is also available on the Dodge Grand Caravan, Nitro, Avenger, Caliber, Journey, Dakota, Jeep Liberty, Compass, Patriot, and Ram trucks. Jeep Liberty has a $3000 rebate offer. Up to $3000 is also available on the Dodge Grand Caravan, Nitro, Avenger, Caliber, and Journey. There is a nice $4500 factory-to-dealer rebate on the Dodge Dakota.

Ford also has a number of 0% APR loan rates — on the 2011 Ford Ranger, Super Duty trucks, E-Series, Fiesta, Flex, Focus, Mustang, Fusion, and Taurus. Lincoln has 0% APR rate offers on the Lincoln Town Car, Navigator, MKS, MKZ, and MKT. Rebates up to $3000 are offered on the F-150 and Lincoln Town Car. Smaller rebates are offered on many other models. Large factory-to-dealer rebates are offered on the Mercury Grand Marquis ($5500), as well as the Mariner, and Milan (up to $3500).

Honda, which was seriously affected by the earthquakes in Japan is only offering a few low interest rate loans on some 2011 Acura and Honda models. The company is also offering a number of special lease deals on certain models and styles, such as the Honda Crosstour, Accord Sedan, CR-V, Odyssey, and Pilot. As you may know from reading this web site in the past, Honda lease deals are always great deals, if you like the model and style being offered. The 2011 Acura ZDX gets $2000 in factory-to-dealer cash. 

Hyundai/Kia is also in the 0% APR loan rate game with zero-percent deals on nearly every model, including both 2011 and 2010 models. In addition, there are a number of attractive rebates — $1000 on the 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe and $2500 on the 2010 Hyundai Sonata. Smaller rebates are available on other models.

Jaguar has 0% APR loan deals on the 2011 Jaguar XF, XJ, and XK.

Mitsubishi has 0% APR rates on nearly every model, including the 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spider.

Saab is offering 0% APR rates on the 2010 and 2011 Saab 9-3 and 9-5. In addition, the 2011 9-3 and 9-5 get $3000-$4000 factory-to-dealer cash.

Toyota, also hit hard by the Japanese earthquakes, has 0% APR deals on the 2011 Toyota Camry, Tundra, Corolla, Venza, Avalon, Highlander, and Sienna. A $2500 rebate is offered on the Toyota Tundra truck, as well as up to $2500 in factory-to-dealer cash.

Volkswagen/Audi has low-interest rate deals, including a few 0% APR rates, on nearly every 2011 Audi and Volkswagen model, and the 2012 Audi A7, Volkswagen CC, and Eos.  Leftover Audi 2010 models get some very large factory-to-dealer cash, up to $9500 but averaging about $4000-$5000.

Volvo has 0% APR deals on the 2012 S60 and most 2011 models except the XC70 and XC-90 (which have 2.9% rates).

You can get free price quotes on any of the above vehicles from Edmunds.com.The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

The incentives arrive in the form of  direct customer cash rebates, low-interest loan rates, including many 0% APR on 72 month loans, lease cash bonuses, and factory-to-dealer cash (marketing support).  These deals expire on January 31 and apply to Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles.

As you may already know, incentives can vary from region to region, and by styles within model lines. You can accept either a rebate or low-interest (including 0%) loan, but not both. Factory-to-dealer cash is typically used by dealers to discount prices to customers.

Chrysler has not returned to leasing in a strong way yet. Most of its current lease incentives are simply modest rebates or cash bonuses, which typically are not enough to make especially attractive lease deals. 

Following are examples of the new incentives:

2011 Chrysler 200 Touring and Limited - $750 rebate or 0% APR for 36 months, and $750 lease bonus

2010 Chrysler 300, Town & Country, PT Cruiser, Sebring – 0% APR for up to 72 months — up to $6500 factory-to-dealer cash

2011 Dodge Nitro – $2500 rebate

2011 Dodge Caliber – 0% APR loan rate for up to 60 months, $1500 rebate on some styles

2011 Dodge Journey – 0% APR loan rate up to 60 months

2011 Dodge Dakota – 0% APR for up to 72 months — $4500 factory-to-dealer cash

2011 Dodge Challenger – 1.9% APR loan rate

2010 Dodge Challenger – $2000 rebate or 1.9% APR loan rate — up to $4000 factory-to-dealer cash

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee – 1.9% APR loan for up to 60 months — $359/month special lease deal for 36 months

2011 Jeep Liberty – $2500 rebate or 0% APR loan for up to 60 months — lease with $2500 rebate plus $500 bonus cash

2011 Jeep Compass and Patriot – $1000 rebate (some styles) or 0% APR loans for up to 60 months

2010 Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee – $4500-$5000 factory-to-dealer cash

2010 Jeep Liberty – $3000-$3500 factory-to-dealer cash

2010 Jeep Compass, Patriot, and Wrangler – up to $3000 factory-to-dealer cash

2011 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab – $2000 rebate plus $2500 bonus

2011 Ram 1500, 2500/3500 – $1000-$2000 rebate or 0% APR for 36 months (up to 60 months on some styles)

2010 Ram 1500 – $3000- $6000 factory-to-dealer cash, depending on style

Overall, these January 2011 car and truck deals from the Chrysler Group are a great way to start the new year. It shows that the company wants to make a strong statement in 2011 not only with excellent incentives but a number of exciting model changes, such as those with the new Chrysler 300.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler Group vehicles from Edmunds.com.The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

Therefore, it is very useful to know which makes and models currently receive marketing support from the manufacturer. Prices on those vehicles will be lower than normal without having to do hard negotiating. If the dealer also adds his own discount, the deals can be even sweeter.

Actually, getting this kind of discount from a dealer is preferable to getting a direct-to-customer rebate. A rebate is not the same as a price discount. Sales tax on a new car is calculated on the selling price, after discounts are subtracted, but before rebates are deducted. A discount is a real price reduction, while a rebate is more like down payment money coming from the manufacturer’s pocket, not yours.

For example, if you buy a $12,000 car with a $2000 rebate, you pay sales tax on $12,000, although you only pay $10,000 of your own money for the car. On the other hand, if you buy a $12,000 car and you receive a $2000 discount, you only pay sales tax on $10,000.

Here are some of the best current (December 2010) factory-to-dealer rebates, all ending on January 3, 2011:

• 2010 BMW 6 Series, M6 – $10,000-$12,500
• 2010 Chrysler 300, PT Cruiser, Sebring – $1000
• 2010 Dodge Avenger – $1000
• 2010 Ford Flex, Taurus – $2000-$3000 (ends December 31, 2010)
• 2011 Cadillac CTS, DTS, STS, Escalade, Escalade ESV - $2000-$5000
• 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT – $3000
• 2010 Acura RL, TL – $2500-$4000
• 2010 Acura MDX, RDX, TSX, ZDX – $750-$2500
• 2010 Honda Civic – $1500-$2500
• 2010 Honda Insight, Ridgeline – $1500
• 2010 Honda Accord, Crosstour – $1200
• 2010 Honda CR-V, Odyssey – $1000
• 2010 Land Rover LR2, Range rover – $2000-$4000
• 2011 Infiniti FX35, FX50, G37 – $3000
• 2011 Toyota Tundra – $2500
• 2011 Toyota Camry – $1500
• 2011 Toyota RAV4 – $1000
• 2011 Toyota Highlander – $500
• 2011 Volvo C30, C70, C80 – $500

You can get free price quotes on any of the above vehicles from Edmunds.com.The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

However, there is one kind of incentive that is not advertised, at least not directly. We often call it a “hidden rebate” or “secret rebate.” In the auto industry it’s called marketing support or factory-to-dealer cash.

The rebate is “hidden” because it flows directly from the car company to dealers. It is provided to dealers as a way of helping them sell or lease cars. The rebate is not a constant and is not offered on all makes and models. It’s offered on a month by month basis, the same as direct customer rebates. It might be offered one month, and not another. The amount of the “hidden” rebate can vary widely, depending on how badly the manufacturer wants to help sell a particular model vehicle.

Dealers can use marketing support money almost any way they want if it helps sell cars. They could use it to pay for advertising, tent sales, or special promotions. However, most if not all of the money is given to customers as a price discount. When a dealer kicks in his own discount, added to the marketing support discount, customers can walk away with a terrific deal. This is how dealers can sell cars at “below invoice price.”

At the time of this writing, the following manufacturers are providing “hidden rebates” to dealers. These rebates may not apply to all models or styles and often require that the customer finance their purchase or lease through the manufacturer’s finance company (example: Ford Motor Credit).

• 2010 BMW M6, 6-Series, X3 – $4000-$$12,500
• 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser, Sebring – $1000
• 2010 Jeep Wrangler – $750
• 2011 Cadillac CTS, DTS, STS – $3500
• 2011 Cadillac Escalade – $2000
• 2011 Chevrolet Aveo, Corvette, HHR, Impala – up to $4000
• 2010 Chevrolet Aveo, Cobalt, HHR, Impala – up to $5000
• 2010 Pontiac Vibe – $3000
• 2010 Acura RL, TL, ZDX – $2000-$4000
• 2010 Honda Odyssey, Ridgeline, Civic Hybrid – $1500
• 2010 Honda Accord, Crosstour, Civic, Insight – up to $1200
• 2011 Mazda Tribute – $1500
• 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata, RX-8, Tribute – $3000-$3500
• 2010 Mazda CX-7, CX-9, Mazda5, Mazda6 – $1500-$2000
• 2010 Mercedes CL, CLS, R-Class, S-Class, SLK – up to $10,000
• 2010 Mercedes C-Class, E-Class, GL, GLK, M-Class – $1500-$5000
• 2010 Saab 9-5 – $2000
• 2010 Subaru Impreza – $1000
• 2011 Toyota Camry – $1500
• 2010 Toyota Tundra – $4000
• 2010 Toyota Avalon, Camry – $2000
• 2010 Toyota Corolla, Highlander, RAV4 – $1500
• 2010 Volvo  C70, S80, V70, XC70, XC90 – $1000-$5500
• 2010 Volvo C30, S40, V50, XC60 – $1000-$1500

Edmunds.com.The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above cars from

Most dealers now have large incentives on leftover 2010 models where 2011 models are already out.  Ford even has some big deals on leftover 2009 models, where available. The deals are outstanding but you might not have a big choice in colors or styles. Being flexible is the key to getting the best deals.

However, this doesn’t mean that good deals can’t be had on new models too.

For example, we’re seeing some great incentives and rebates on 2011 models from Chrysler and General Motors. These deals expire on November 1, 2010.

Chrysler currently has rebates in the range of $1000-$2000 on the 2011 Dodge Dakota and Nitro, Jeep Liberty, and Ram 1500,2500, and 3500. Chrysler also is offering low-interest loans on these 2011 models.

General Motors has rebates of up to $2500 on Buick Lucerne, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Malibu, Traverse, Impala, Colorado, Aveo, and Cruze. Reabtes up to $2500 are also available on GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon and Canyon.

In addition, General Motors also has “hidden” factory-to-dealer” rebates on the 2011 Cadillac CTS, DTS, STS ($3500), Cadillac Escalade ($2000), and Chevrolet Aveo, Corvette, HHR, and Impala ($4000).

General Motors is also offering low-interest loans, including 0% APR rates, on most of the above 2011 models.

When a dealer or manufacturer has too many of certain vehicles and sales are slow, the manufacturer will encourage him to increase sales by providing a cash incentive. Right now, many car makers are offering big dealer cash on leftover 2009 models, as well as some 2010 models.

Dealers can use the factory cash in any way they want. Some spend it on advertising. Some hold special sales events or ”tent sales.” But in many cases some , if not all, of the money goes directly back to customers in the form of price discounts.

A car with a $2000 factory-to-dealer rebate will almost certainly sell for at least $2000 less than MSRP (sticker price), if not more. Frequently, manufacturers offer a combination of direct customer rebates and factory-to-dealer cash to make an overall sweet deal. Customers often negotiate additional discount from a dealer (it’s only right that a dealer should add a little of his own money) to make the deal even better.

Luxury car makers like to use hidden dealer cash because they don’t want to advertise customer rebates and be veiwed as a “discount brand.” That way customers can negotiate, or be given, a “special price” without it being so obvious that it’s a discount.

Here are some of the brands and models with the best factory-to-dealer cash deals. Keep in mind that these factory rebates can vary by region of the country and may be changed at any time.

2009 BMW 3-Series and M3 – $2500 dealer cash

2009 Chrysler Aspen, PT Cruiser – $4500

2009 Chrysler Sebring, Town & Country – $3500

2009 Dodge Sprinter – $5000

2009 Dodge Avenger, Durango, Nitro – $4500

2009 Dodge Dakota, Grand Caravan, Jpourney – $3500

2009 Jeep Commander, Grand Cherokee – $5000

2009 Jeep Compass, Patriot, Liberty, Wrangler – $3000

2009 Mercury Grand Marquis, Milan, Sable – $3500

2009 Hummer H2, H2 SUT – $5000

2009 Saab 9-3, 9-5, 9-7X – $8000

2009 Land Rover Ranger Rover – $9000

2009 Land Rover LR2, LR3, Ranger Rover Sport – $6000

2010 Infiniti EX35, M35, M45, QX56 – $6000

2009 Infiniti F35, FX50, M35, M45 – $6000

2009 Infiniti EX35, G37 – $4000

2009 Lexus LS-450, LS-660L, SC 430 – $10,000

2009 Lexus GS-350, GS-450h, GS-460, LX-570 – $3000

2009 Audi A3, A4, A6, S6, S4, S8, TT - $6000

2009 Audi A5, A8, Q5, Q7 – $5000

2009 Volkswagen CC, Eos, Routan – $6000

2009 Volkswagen New Beetle, Tiguan, Passat – $6000

2009 Volkswagen Jetta, Touareg 2,  GTI – $5000

2010 Volvo C70, S80, V70, XC70 – $4000

2009 Volvo C70, S60, S80, V70, XC70 – $5500

2009 Volvo C30, S40, V50, XC90 – $4000

You can get free price quotes on any of the above vehicles from Edmunds.com.The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

Chrysler

The new Chrysler incentives are in the form of direct factory-to-customer rebates, zero-percent loans, low-interest loans, and “hidden” factory-to-dealer rebates that are usually applied as price discounts.

The Chrysler company has announced no special lease deals because it is no longer directly offering car leases. However, Chrysler dealers now use GMAC for lease financing and GMAC is offering lease deals. Furthermore, Chrysler is offering several cash bonuses on some models to customers who choose to lease. So if you are thinking about leasing, ask your dealer about the GMAC deals and bonuses. Also visit our sister web site, LeaseGuide.com, for important tips and advice about car leasing. 

Here are some examples of current Chrysler deals for December:

2010 Chrysler 300 – $3000 customer rebate or 0% APR loan for 36/48/60 months, 1.9% for 72 months

2009 Chrysler 300 – $4000 rebarte or 0% APR loan for 36/48/60/72 months

2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser – $2000 rebate or 0% interest loan for 36/48 months, 1.9% for 60 months, 3.9% for 72 months — plus $1000 factory-to-dealer cash

2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser – $3000 factory-to-dealer cash

2008 Chrysler Pacifica – Note this is a leftover 2008 model – $5000 factory-to-dealer cash

2010 Chrysler Sebring – $2000 rabate or 0% APR loan for 36/48 months, 1.9% for 60 months

2009 Chrysler Sebring – $3000 factory-to-dealer cash

2010 Chrysler Town and Country – $1500 rebate or 0% APR loan rate for 36/48 months, 2.9% for 60 months — plus $1500 bonus cash to customers who lease

You can get free dealer price quotes on any of the above Chrysler cars from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

Chrysler

The incentives are being offered in the form of some generous customer rebates and 0% APR loans. Of course, as you may already know, you must select either the rebate or the 0% loan, but not both.

We generally advise our readers to take the rebate as being the better deal, especially if the reader is short on down payment cash. Rebates can serve as your entire down payment if it’s large enough, as are most of the Chrysler Corp. rebates shown below.

Let’s look at some of the new Chrylser company deals now.

Chrysler – Excellent rebates are being offered on most Chrysler models — Chrysler Sebring – $2500, PT Cruiser – $3000, Town and Country – $3500, and Aspen – $4500. Alternatively, 0% APR loans are offered on these models for 36/48/60/72 months (except Town and Country which is 2.9% for 72 months).

Dodge – Large rebates are offered on most Dodge models — Dodge Avenger – $2500, Nitro – $3000, Dakota, Grand Caravan, Journey, Ram 1500 – $3500, and Charger, Durango, Ram 2500, Ram 3500 – $4500.  Alternatively, 0% APR loans are offered on these models for 36/48/60/72 months (except 2.9% for 72 months for Grand Caravan).

Jeep – High rebates are offered on most Jeep models — Wrangler – $1000, Compass and Patriot – $1500, Liberty – $3000, and Commander and Grand Cherokee – $4500. Alternatively, 0% APR loans are offered on these models for 36/48/60/72 months (except 2.9% for 72 months for the Liberty).

Please understand that the above deals may vary depending on the part of the U.S. in which you live, and on dealer participation. Also know that you may be able to negotiate additional dealer price discounts on top of any rebates being provided by the manufacturer.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler vehicles from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

The current deals end on August 31, 2009.

The new Chrysler  incentives are in the form of large customer rebates and 0% APR loans. Of course, you can’t accept both a rebate and a loan deal. It’s one or the other, not both.  The 0% APR loans apply, in general, to 36/48/60/72 month loans.

In most cases, with large rebates such as those being offered in August, the rebate is the better deal, especially if you are short of down payment money. The rebate can be applied as your down payment.

There are currently no factory-to-dealer rebates or special lease deals on Chrysler vehicles at this time. You may know that Chrysler no longer offers its own car leases but you can still lease because dealers have made separate arrangements with credit unions, banks, and finance companies. For more about car leasing, visit LeaseGuide.com.

Here are some of the great deals now available from Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep. These are all for 2009 models.

Chrysler Sebring / 300 /Town and Country – $3500 factory-to-customer rebate, 0% interest loans

Chrysler Aspen / PT Cruiser – $4500 customer rebate, 0% loans

Chrysler Pacifica – $3000 rebate, 0% loans

Dodge Grand Caravan / Charger – $3500 rebate, 0% loans

Dodge Durango – $4500 rebate, 0% loans

Jeep Grand Cherokee / Commander – $4500 rebate, 0% loans

Other deals and incentives are available on models not listed here.

Remember, if you are participating in the “cash for clunkers” program, the above incentives are added on top of your $3500 or $4500 clunker trade-in credit.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicles from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

Chrysler is desperate to sell cars these days and is putting up some serious money to help move them.

Here are some examples of these great rebate deals on Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles.

2009 Dodge Charger – $3500-$4500 cash to customer rebate. The rebate depends on where you live in the U.S.

2009 Dodge Caravan – $3500-$4500 customer cash rebate

2009 Chrysler 300 – $3500-$4500 rebate

2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser – $4500 rebate

2009 Chrysler Town and Country minivan – $3500-$4500 factory-to-customer cash rebate

2009 Jeep Commander – $4500-$5500 rebate (WOW!)

2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee – $4500-$6500 rebate (WOW!!!)

2009 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup – $3500-$5000 rebate

2009 Chrysler Sebring – $4500 customer cash rebate

These are just example of the generous rebates currently being offered across the entire line of Chrysler company models. Make no mistake about it, these are GREAT rebates. If you are thinking about getting a new Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle, now is a good time to buy.

You can get free dealer price quotes on any of the above Chrysler vehicles from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates and dealer discounts that are currently available.

You may know that many Chrysler dealers have been required to close by June 9, 2009 and it’s at those dealers where you can get the best deals for the next few days (see our article, Chrysler Dealers Closing).

However, outstanding deals can also be had at those dealers not closing due to heavy factory-to-customer rebates and factory-to-dealer rebates. Factory-to-dealer rebates are normally passed along either in whole, or in part, by dealers to customers as price discounts. Most of these deals expire at the end of June 2009.

Here is a typical example for the 2009 Chrysler 300:

• $2000 factory-to-customer cash-back rebate
• Additional $1000 rebate for customers who currently own or lease a Chrysler product
• Additional $1000 rebate for customers who finance through an approved credit union
• $2000 factory-to-dealer rebate for any cars sold that was purchased by dealer before October 1, 2008
• $1000 factory-to-dealer rebate for any cars sold that was purchased by dealer after October 1, 2008
• $500 additional factory-to-dealer rebate

When you add up all the potential rebates, plus any additional price discount offered by dealers, it makes for some pretty hot deals on Chrysler vehicles.

Most other Chrysler vehicles have simlar incentives. So, if you are in the mood for a good deal and like Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicles, this is the best time in history to buy.

You can get free price quotes on any Chrysler vehicle from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates and price discounts that are currently available.

One factor makes this very interesting to consumers who are looking for good car deals right now.

Chrysler has told it’s dealers that the company will not be buying back cars already in dealers’ inventory. This means dealers will have to get rid of cars the best way they know how — by selling for low, low, low prices. Dealers can’t afford to be stuck with cars after the business closes and their license to sell has expired.

Some Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep dealers with large left-over inventories are selling at huge discounts, some for as much as half-off.

People looking for incredible car bargains will find a gold mine of deals at these dealers who will soon be out of business. However, you’ve got to move fast. June 9 is coming up very soon.

Here’s a list of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep dealers who are closing.

You should find the closest dealers to you and get out there now if you want to have good choices in what you buy. Some of the these dealers may have already sold off most of their cars or have very little inventory to choose from. Other larger dealers may have tons of inventory. Smart buyers will be spending time out looking for the best cars at the best prices.

Even though these dealers are closing, 75% of all Chrysler dealers are not closing and will still be around to handle your warranty and service needs.

For the latest information about Chrysler deals, see Chrysler Deals Only Get Better.

Customers buying Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep products before June 1, 2009 can receive up to $6000 in rebates, depending on model and other conditions. All models are not included. Emphasis is being placed on current Chrysler company vehicle owners to come in and buy another Chrysler product.

Here are some examples of the new 2009 Chrysler deals:

Chrysler 300 Limited – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $3000 customer cash (rebate)

Chrysler 300C – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $4000 customer cash

Chrysler Aspen (including Hybrid) – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000 customer cash

Chrysler Sebring – $500/$1000 customer cash

Chrysler Sebring Convertible – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $1500 customer cash

Chrysler Town & Country minivan – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000 customer cash

Dodge Avenger – $1000/$1500 customer cash

Dodge Caliber – $1500/$2000 customer cash

Dodge Challenger – no incentives

Dodge Charger – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000/$3000 customer cash

Dodge Durango – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000 customer cash

Dodge Grand Caravan – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $1500/$2000 customer cash

Dodge Journey – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $1500/$2500 customer cash

Dodge Nitro – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000 customer cash

Dodge Ram trucks – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $1500/$4000 customer cash

Jeep Commander – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $3000 customer cash

Jeep Grand Cherokee – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $3000 customer cash

Jeep Liberty – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $2000 customer cash

Jeep Patriot – $1000 customer cash

Jeep Wrangler – $1000 owner loyalty cash + $1000 customer cash

Don’t overlook the fact that these rebates are coming directly from Chrysler and not its dealers. You can still negotiate further price reductions by asking your dealer to “chip in” with additional price discounts, given the fact that dealers get “hidden” factory-to-dealer rebates to help in that regard.

You can get free dealer price quotes on any Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicles from Edmunds.com. The quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.

The new incentives are expected to have a heavy dose of factory-to-dealer cash that will allow Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep dealers to wheel and deal with customers on prices.

Even though Chrysler is now officially in bankruptcy, they need to sell cars to stay alive and make it out of bankruptcy in a few weeks or months. Hopefully, they will come out as a leaner, meaner company and ready to do business.

If you are in the market for a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep you should wait to see what the new round of incentives look like.

Our guess is that the new incentives will be very good and worth your consideration. Will the deals get any better next month? Maybe. Maybe not. Even if the deals get a little better, the selections will be smaller and you might not be able to get what you want.

Chrysler

Interestingly, many of the new deals are cash-back rebates COMBINED with low-interest loans. You get BOTH at the same time. This is unusual because, typically, you are allowed to take either the rebate OR the low APR, but not both. Chrysler is obviously trying this out to see if works any better than the old way. 

For example, on the popular Chrysler Town and Country minivan, you get $1000/$1500 (depending on model) rebates, PLUS 0% APR (36 months), 3.9% APR (48 months), or 5.9% (60 months).

The Chrysler 300 now has a $2500 rebate combined with 0%-5.9% loan rates (depending on loan term). The Jeep Grand Cherokee gets $2000 PLUS low interest loan rates. The Chrysler PT Cruiser gets $1750 and promotional loan rates. The Dodge Durango has a $2000 rebate with low loan rates. The Dodge Grand Caravan has a new $1000 rebate and good loan rates.

Another nice rebate is the $750 additional cash bonus you receive if you are returning a Chrysler lease vehicle. You might know that Chrysler Finance  is not in the leasing business any longer, but dealers can often arrange leases with national banks. If you need more information and advice about car leasing, see LeaseGuide.com, a sister site to this web site.

These are some good examples of current incentives from the Chrysler company. Remember the deals are good only until April 30, 2009 and offers can vary according to the region of the country.

You can get free price quotes on any of the above Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicles from Edmunds.comThe quotes will automatically include any cash-back rebates or discounts that are currently available.