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This weekend will be the first in the month of October. If you’re thinking about shopping for a new car to name, the beginning of a month isn’t typically the best time to start, but there are still ways to make your shopping experience smoother regardless of which weekend you choose. That’s where all the links below come in: Check out our stories to familiarize yourself with what you’re in for when you get around to hitting the lots, plus what you can do to get ahead before you ever leave the comfort of home.

Related: What’s the Best New-Car Warranty for 2018?

What car should I buy? That depends on a lot of factors, but our reviews can help. Check out our recent additions: 

  • Pickup trucks: GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Nissan Titan XD

  • SUVs: BMW X5, Subaru Forester, Cadillac XT4, Land Rover Range Rover, Jaguar E-Pace, Land Rover Discovery, Hyundai Kona, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda Pilot, BMW X2

  • Sedans: Nissan Altima, Mercedes-Benz A220, Maserati Quattroporte, BMW M5

  • Hatchbacks: Hyundai Veloster, Nissan Kicks

  • Hybrids: Lexus LC 500h

  • Convertibles: Maserati GranTurismo

  • Performance cars: Mazda MX-5 Miata, Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye

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. Here’s what you need to know.

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.

Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.

 


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