CHICAGO, July 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cash for Clunkers program that's gotten so much attention in recent months is scheduled to launch by the end of July. In addition to providing a comprehensive guide to help explain to consumers how the program will work and which new cars are eligible, Cars.com now offers its picks for the new cars that will give consumers the best bang for their buck.
"The list of new cars eligible for the Cash for Clunkers program is a dizzying array of choices," said Cars.com editor in chief Patrick Olsen. "We've helped consumers out by listing five new cars and five new trucks/crossovers/minivans that would make the most of your Cash for Clunkers credit. Many have significant incentives on top of the thousands the government is handing out, but we've also listed a few hot models that rarely get cash-back offers of their own, as this may be the one time to get them at any type of discount."
Below are Cars.com's picks, along with any available incentives currently offered. The adjusted price listed assumes the "clunker" being traded in will qualify for the biggest credit available, $4,500.
Top Cars
2010 Toyota Prius
Starting MSRP: $22,000
Available incentives: None
Cash for Clunkers credit: $4,500
Adjusted price: $17,500
Clearly, the most fuel-efficient car in America is the prototypical vehicle the framers of Cash for Clunkers wanted you to trade your clunker in for. You're guaranteed the full $4,500 credit for the Prius no matter your trade-in, because its combined 50 mpg will best any eligible Clunker by well more than 10 mpg. Because the new Prius is so popular, there are no manufacturer discounts, and it may be hard to find one locally.
2009 Hyundai Sonata
Starting MSRP: $18,700
Available incentives: $2,000 cash back, plus $1.49 gas for a year (expires July 31)
Cash for Clunkers credit: $3,500-$4,500
Adjusted price: $12,200
The Sonata is a favorite value pick at Cars.com. It has a pleasant ride, upscale interior and better than average reliability ratings. There's a national cash-back incentive, plus a gas deal that will save you some pain at the pump - even at $2.50-a-gallon gas. The base model's mileage rating of 21/32 mpg city/highway is also good for the class.
2009 Mini Cooper
Starting MSRP: $18,550
Available incentives: None
Cash for Clunkers credit: $3,500-$4,500
Adjusted price: $14,050
The Mini Cooper is a blast to drive, even in the base form listed here. The car has been so popular since it was reintroduced in the U.S. that there are rarely cash-back deals available. Mileage is excellent at 28/37 mpg city/highway, with which you're guaranteed to qualify for the full $4,500 credit. That means you'll drive away in a stylish, European import for under $15,000.
2009 Nissan Altima
Starting MSRP: $19,900
Available incentives: $1,500 cash back (expires Aug.
