Cars
2006 Car Buyer's Guide
Get all the tools and tips you need to shop for a new car online or drive the best bargain on the showroom floor. Plus, find out which 2006 cars win Kiplinger's top honors.
November 2005
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The 2006 crop of new cars has something for everyone. If you're considering buying or leasing this year -- or are just browsing -- we dish out vehicle recommendations and shopping tips, and we arm you with the tools you need to hit the Web and the showroom.
2006 Best Cars Slide Show From hundreds of vehicles, we rate the cream of the crop based on performance, value and real-world driving impressions. See which cars, wagons, minivans and SUVs take top honors for Best in Class, Best New Car, First for Safety and Most Fuel Efficient.
MPG Takes Center Stage The spike in fuel prices changes everything. Now fuel-efficient vehicles replace SUVs as showroom stars. Plus: Does the fuel economy of hybrids make up for their added costs?
Wheeling and Dealing To be on sound footing when you shop for a new car, you need to know how the process works -- how dealers make their money, how much they paid for the model you want and the kinds of deals other buyers in your area are striking.
Take Along Kiplinger's Test-Drive Scorecard When you head to the dealerships for test drives don't forget this handy tool. It'll show you what to look for in a new car and help compare choices.
Get Bids From Local Dealers Find a car you like? Get the negotiations rolling without even setting foot in the showroom.
Let Kiplinger and CarBargains Find You the Best Deal Do you hate the haggling that goes on when buying or leasing a car, and worry that you're being taken for a ride? You can let a professional car shopper seek out a great deal for you. Here's how.
Shop for the Best Car Loan Find up-to-date interest rates offered in your area. Then, estimate your monthly car payment.