new car

2010 Scion iQ

With the economy showing signs of life and plenty of great car deals to be had, many people may be more eager than ever to purchase a new car. A major added incentive has even appeared in the form of the federal government's Cash for Clunkers program, which offers up to a $4,500 rebate when you trade in your old car. It's quite the deal, but if you don't qualify and are still inclined to drop some cash on a new vehicle, here's a suggestion.

Wait. It may be tempting to head to the dealer today and walk out of there with a set of keys. But in this case, patience definitely has its rewards.

he automotive industry has witnessed the perfect storm over the last two years. Drastic drops in sales, unpredictable rises in gas prices, a punch-drunk economy trying to get its legs -- all of this has culminated in auto manufacturers being forced to make major modifications. Stagnant brands have been downsized and eliminated, while automakers have moved their focus from behemoth SUVS to small, fuel-efficient cars.

However, the time it takes for a car designed from scratch to make it into production is significant. Cars that have been in the works for the last year or two will only be rolling out on dealer lots starting next year and into 2011 and 2012. What that means is, eventually, the fallout from the automotive crisis will result in a whole slate of efficient, innovative cars making it to the market in true lemonade-out-of-lemons fashion. We've put together a list of our favorites. Start putting money aside now and you won't be sorry later.