can you buy a 2024 car now

[DiHeidi]

Yes, you can absolutely buy a 2024 model year car right now. Automakers operate on a cyclical schedule, typically releasing new model-year vehicles in the summer or early fall of the preceding year. This means dealerships started receiving 2024 models as early as mid-2023. Your chances of finding a good selection are high, but the best deal depends on your goals: buying a popular model may still involve paying close to the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), while shopping for a less common model or one that's about to be replaced by a 2025 version could lead to significant incentives and discounts.

The key is understanding the market dynamics. If a dealership has a large inventory of 2024s and the 2025 models are imminent, they are highly motivated to clear space. This is when you might find cashback offers, special financing rates, or discounted pricing. However, for newly released or highly sought-after vehicles like certain hybrids or trucks, you might still encounter limited availability and less negotiating power.

Here’s a quick look at the availability and typical discount range for some common 2024 models as of mid-2024:

Vehicle Model	Segment	Typical Availability	Potential Discount/Incentive Range (Est.)
Honda CR-V	Compact SUV	High	$500 - $2,500
Toyota Camry	Midsize Sedan	Moderate	$1,000 - $3,000
Ford F-150	Full-Size Truck	Varies by Trim	$1,500 - $5,000+
Hyundai Tucson	Compact SUV	High	$1,000 - $2,500
Chevrolet Tahoe	Large SUV	Moderate	$2,000 - $4,500
Kia Sportage	Compact SUV	High	$1,000 - $2,800
Ford Mustang Mach-E	Electric SUV	High	$3,000 - $7,000
Subaru Outback	Wagon/SUV	Moderate	$1,000 - $2,000

Your strategy should be to research specific models online, check inventory at local dealers, and be prepared to negotiate based on how long a car has been on the lot. Focus on the out-the-door price, which includes all taxes and fees, to understand the true cost.

[MacTessa]

For sure, now's a great time if you're not picky about having the absolute latest. Lots are full of 2024s. I just helped my neighbor get a great deal on a sedan because the dealer was trying to hit a quarterly sales target. The trick is to be ready to move fast if you see a price you like. Don't expect huge discounts on stuff like hybrids, though; those are still flying off the shelves.

[LaStephanie]

From a practical standpoint, buying a 2024 now is smart. You're getting a car that's still brand new with a full warranty, but the initial depreciation hit has already been partially absorbed by the calendar year. I'd focus on models that are carryovers without major changes for 2025. You get all the kinks worked out from early production runs. Just be sure to check the vehicle's manufacture date to avoid one that's been sitting for almost a year.

[VanKai]

My main concern is always the budget. Right now, you can find some decent financing deals on 2024s that you won't see on the incoming 2025s. I was looking at a compact SUV, and the difference was almost 2% on the APR. That adds up. The selection might not be perfect on color and trim, but if you can be flexible, you can save a good chunk of money without sacrificing anything. It feels like getting a nearly new car for a used car price.