The Market for Fuel-Efficient Vehicles in 2021

Fuel-efficient vehicles are becoming extremely popular. The trend is most obvious with electric and plug-in hybrid cars; globally, electric vehicle sales are expected to grow by 50 percent this year. Of course, cars with standard internal combustion engines are still the most popular option with consumers, but a growing number of drivers prioritize gas mileage over other factors.

Manufacturers have taken notice, and as brands introduce new eco-friendly vehicles — including new electric cars and plug-in hybrids — dealerships need to make room on their lots for the latest models. However, the pandemic radically changed the market; many consumers have opted for used vehicles, leaving some dealerships with a surplus of brand-new cars. To clear their inventory, they’re offering 0% APR financing, cash back at signing, and other incentives on most 2021 models.

If you’re looking to buy new, the market conditions are working in your favor. Purchasing incentives can drastically cut the cost of your purchase, and some local dealerships are offering unbelievable bargains. To take advantage, however, you’ll need to do some research.

Comparing Fuel-Efficient Vehicles Online to Find Deals

The pandemic has changed the way that people buy cars. Dealerships have avoided online sales for decades, forcing drivers to visit physical car lots. That’s no longer the case — you can now arrange test drives, find financing, negotiate pricing, and even schedule a vehicle delivery through online e-commerce sites.

The internet allows buyers to easily compare vehicles from different manufacturers and find the best local deals. Dealerships thrive on in-person sales; when you shop online, you don’t have to deal with pushy salespeople, and you can effectively evaluate your options without making a commitment.

Some tips for finding fuel-efficient vehicles online:

• Look at as many dealerships as possible. More options typically means lower costs, so collect quotes from several different dealerships. Remember that many brands have equivalent models with similar technology, so don’t just look at one manufacturer. By casting a wide net, you’ll be able to spot the best bargains.
• Be careful when comparing gas mileage estimates. Fuel economy is often measured by highway miles and city miles, so when reviewing several vehicles, make sure you’re comparing the same numbers. Electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids often measure mileage by range, which is the number of miles the vehicle can drive before needing a recharge.
• Take advantage of incentives. Calculate the approximate value of financing incentives, especially if the dealership offers an either/or option. For example, a cashback offer could knock several thousand dollars off the cost of your car — but a 60-month 0% APR financing period could provide a better value over time.

Last but not least, consider last year’s models. Car manufacturers rarely update their top-selling vehicles significantly. From year to year, most models undergo slight changes in their trim and appearance, but vehicle technology remains unchanged.Dealerships need to maintain stocks of the latest vehicles, so there’s a strong incentive to clear out older vehicles — which are still brand new from the driver’s perspective. By opting for a 2020 model, you might be able to save money while still getting a car with excellent mileage, state-of-the-art navigation tech, and other key features.

Research Can Help Drivers Find New Eco-Friendly Cars for Less

By purchasing an efficient vehicle, you can reduce your impact on the environment — and spend much less time and money at your local gas station. The internet makes the purchasing process easier, but you’ll need to take the right approach to lock in savings.

Remember, many dealerships offer special deals through advertisements that aren’t available directly through their websites. Look at as many local options as you can find. Pay attention to available incentives, particularly if you’re planning on leasing or financing your vehicle. Consider keeping notes; this can be extraordinarily helpful when negotiating the final price of your new vehicle.

Start your search by grabbing quotes from at least 3-4 websites. Comparing car quotes online requires some work, but it’s well worth the effort. With a few clicks, you can get peace of mind when making your purchase — and enjoy the incredible experience of owning a new, fuel-efficient car.