Any car buyer knows that new car prices are still high. A finance website has indicated that this summer may offer some great deals on reliable vehicles, with the possibility of purchasing a dependable car at a significantly reduced price.
Over the past five years, new car prices have surged by 27%. Gobankingrate, a finance website, believes that in 2025, with the introduction of new car models, the growth of electric vehicles (EVs), and increasing inventory, prices of some popular car models may see significant drops.
As we enter the summer car-buying season, there are factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle.
“We are entering a rare window of opportunity where some of the most reliable cars also have the strongest bargaining power,” said Zach Shefska, CEO and co-founder of CarEdge, to Gobankingrate. “Models like Nissan Altima and Subaru Legacy are gradually being phased out, while Honda Passport and Toyota RAV4 are making way for redesigned models, presenting a great chance for significant discounts this summer.”
For savvy buyers, especially those prioritizing long-term value and reliability, July may present excellent car-buying opportunities. As dealerships begin to clear out inventory before the release of 2026 models, it’s advised to compare prices at different dealerships and negotiate for better deals, whether in person or online.
Shefska shared a list of five reliable car models that may see significant price reductions this summer, along with explanations for the discounted prices.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $28,140-$35,970
Discount reason: Discontinued model, poor sales, ample inventory.
Nissan has made configuration adjustments for the 2025 Altima model targeted at overseas markets, eliminating the 2.0T engine across the lineup. Interior features will include dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, welcome pedals, remote start, and interior carbon fiber trim panels. The 2025 Altima will be equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine with a maximum power output of 140 kW and peak torque of 244 Nm, paired with a CVT transmission.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $27,980-$41,280
Discount reason: Discontinued, final clearance for the model year.
As Subaru’s most important vehicle in decades, the Legacy has helped Subaru establish a stronghold in the largest market of the U.S. since its launch in 1989. However, Subaru announced last April in the U.S. that the production of Legacy will end by the conclusion of the 2025 model year due to the increasing demand for SUVs, discontinuing this underperforming sedan.
The 2025 Subaru Legacy is offered with a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine, or a 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, producing 182 horsepower and 260 horsepower, respectively. The car also comes with additional features such as a sunroof, 11.6-inch touchscreen, driver fatigue detection system, and a heated steering wheel.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $43,850-$49,920
Discount reason: New 2026 model design released.
Honda Passport is a seven-seat SUV with a powerful engine and an advanced transmission system, ensuring smooth and ample power delivery for both city driving and highway overtaking. It also boasts excellent fuel economy, saving costs for owners while ensuring performance.
Aside from power, off-road capability is a key selling point for this SUV. The Passport is equipped with a professional four-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts power distribution based on different road conditions. Furthermore, it features a range of advanced active and passive safety systems such as collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, providing comprehensive protection for passengers.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $30,645-$40,350
Discount reason: Upcoming release of a new redesigned model, facing fierce competition in the segment.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 has been officially revealed, introducing three styles – Core, Rugged, and GR Sport – under the sixth-generation U.S. model. The powertrain has shifted entirely to a hybrid and plug-in hybrid dual system, marking an important step in the brand’s electrification strategy.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4, besides pickup trucks, is the best-selling model in the U.S.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $53,975-$71,875
Discount reason: Slow sales for the 2025 BMW i4, as a new model is set to launch this year.
The 2025 BMW i4 comes in three variants – eDrive40 RWD, xDrive40 AWD, and M50 AWD, equipped with the same power system and an 84.3 kWh battery as the previous model. The eDrive40 variant features a rear single motor producing up to 335 horsepower, while the dual-motor system in the xDrive40 delivers 396 horsepower, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and providing a range of up to 461 kilometers. The M50 model’s dual-motor system generates 536 horsepower, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and offering a range of 429 kilometers on a full charge.