Cars and Drivers

It's Not Too Late to Buy Someone a Car for Christmas

Douglas A. McIntyre

Published: December 24, 2017 8:21 am

Last Updated: January 12, 2020 5:09 am

For late shoppers who want to spend $12,000 to $250,000 on a Christmas present, it is not too late to buy someone a car. Many dealers are open today. Recipients may not be able to drive the vehicle home, but they can certainly sit in the one just bought for them.

Buying a car the day before Christmas has at least two benefits, one of which is for the buyer and the other for the person getting the gift.

It may be the most expensive present the recipient ever gets.

And, many cars are discounted as dealers try to clear lots as the end of the year approaches.

Several examples:

General Motors Co.’s (NYSE: GM) Chevy Silverado pick-up carries a discount so steep that it is hard to believe the company makes money. With certain restrictions, one model of the truck carries incentives which total $11,005. However, the model is a 2017, which in essence makes it a year old.

Some versions of the 2017 Fiat are available with 0% APR for 72 months. Chrysler Fiat Automobiles N.V. (NYSE: FCAU) is having trouble selling Fiat models in the United States. The cars also tend to get poor reliability reviews. And, the model available is a 2017 version.

Kia is also having a rough sales year. Gift givers can get a 2017 Optima for 0% APR for 66 months.

Hyundai is also having a difficult year in terms of sales. It is offering its 2017 Elantra with a finance package of 0% for 72 months, with certain modest restrictions.

And, finally, for people willing to spend a large sum for a car, troubled Cadillac is offering its CTS-V super car with a financial package of 0% APR for 72 months.

People can still buy a car as a Christmas present, and get a discount if it is a model most people don’t want.