Due to the economic climate in the U.S. over the past several months, auto sales have slowed. This has effected not only the Big three, but most import and foreign owned manufacturers as well. Truck/SUV plants from Ford to Toyota are being temporarily closed or converted to small vehicles manufacturing facilities. While this is bad for the manufacturer, this is good for those that still need a truck or SUV for transportation. Rather you have a large family, own a commercial business or farm, there will always be a need for the larger vehicle to do certain tasks.

While out in the field visiting clients I have seen some of the best deals ever on large vehicles. From one dealer offering $15,000 off a new Dodge, to others boasting 0% for 72mo. and more. The one thing to keep in mind is buying what works for you. If you plan on pulling a six-horse trailer, a 1500 won't cut it. factor your actual needs before starting the shopping process and you are sure to save yourself more time in the long run.

Another thing to keep in mind is the new MPG ratings by the EPA. After decades of using an outdated, unrealistic rating system, the EPA woke up and made changes. The window stickers starting on '08 models forward reflect a much more accurate idea of expected fuel consumption. This is in part due to the introduction of real world conditions in the actual testing of the vehicles fuel use.

Will large vehicles such as trucks and SUVs ever go away? I doubt it, not as long as large families stay wise on using one vehicle to get from A to B instead of two. Likewise, I doubt my general contractor will roll up to his job site in a Civic! One thing I hope to see is those purchasing larger vehicles just "because" fades away. If you can afford it, now is the time to buy, rather it be a car or a home for that matter.

To see a comparison of old and new MPG EPA ratings visit:
New MPG Ratings

This site will allow you to compare old vehicle ratings to new.

Happy Motoring,

Lance