Should I Buy a Vehicle Now or Wait for Next Year’s Model?

By Adam Pirman, Sales Manager at Apple Chevrolet

As summer winds down and fall approaches, one question starts coming up almost every day at our dealership:

“Should I buy a vehicle now, or should I wait for next year’s model?”

It’s a great question, and the honest answer is, it depends on what you’re looking for and what matters most to you.

After more than 18 years in the automotive industry, I’ve helped countless customers make this decision. Some are excited about the newest technology and styling, while others are looking for the best overall value.

Here’s how I help customers think through the decision.

Why This Time of Year Is Different

Late summer and early fall are unique because manufacturers begin introducing the next model year while many current model-year vehicles are still available.

That means you may have two model years sitting on the lot at the same time.

For example, you might be deciding between a current model-year Chevrolet Equinox and the newly released version. While they may look very similar, pricing, incentives, available features, and inventory can be quite different.

Understanding those differences can help you make the best decision.

Buy the Current Model Year If Value Is Your Priority

If your goal is getting the most vehicle for your money, purchasing the current model year is often a smart choice.

Manufacturers frequently offer attractive incentives on outgoing models to help make room for new inventory. Depending on the vehicle, those incentives may include customer cash, special financing, lease offers, or other promotions.

In many cases, you’re getting a vehicle that’s nearly identical to the next model year but at a more attractive price.

If you’re flexible on color or equipment, this can be an excellent opportunity.

Wait for the Next Model Year If You Want the Latest Features

Some customers prefer having the newest model available, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

A new model year may include:

• Updated technology
• New safety features
• Interior or exterior styling changes
• Additional trim levels
• New paint colors
• Feature improvements

If those updates are important to you and you plan to keep the vehicle for several years, waiting may be the right decision.

Don’t Assume the Next Model Year Is Completely Different

One misconception I hear is that every new model year brings a major redesign.

In reality, many vehicles receive only minor updates from one year to the next.

Sometimes the differences are limited to a new exterior color, an updated wheel design, or a few technology enhancements.

Other years bring complete redesigns.

That’s why it’s important to compare the two rather than assuming the newer model is automatically the better choice.

Inventory Can Influence Your Decision

Another factor many shoppers don’t consider is availability.

As dealerships transition between model years, selection on the outgoing model may begin to shrink.