Why Now Is Perfect Time to Buy an SUV

We know the rap: SUVs are evildoers. They’re gas guzzling, shameless wastes of space.

And yes, some sports utility vehicles like Hummers and Ford Explorers (Stock Quote: F) leave giant carbon footprints.  For example, this past summer when gas prices jumped past $4 a gallon, drivers of these hunks of metal racked up more than $100 a month at the pump.

But if you have kids, like to go camping, run a delivery business or buy in bulk from Costco (Stock Quote: COST) and Wal-Mart (Stock Quote: WMT), and happen to be in the market for a new car, it may make sense to add some SUVs to your list.

After all, not all SUVs are identically hazardous to the environment and your wallet.  Some, depending on your transportation needs, lifestyle and budget, may offer great value in terms of safety, convenience, mileage and now, more than ever, price. 

Now’s a great time to bargain hunt for nearly any vehicle, but the surge in gas prices this summer coupled with the growing stigma of owning an SUV has left a more sizeable glut of SUVs on sales floors across the country.

“You can find good deals across the board…whether you’re looking for a luxury or entry-level SUV,” says Jessica Caldwell, manager of pricing and industry analysis at Edmunds.com, an online car-buying guide.

Interested in how to get the best SUV deal? Check out MainStreet's SUV negotiating tips.

Catch Farnoosh and more of her money saving tips on TLC’s new show Real Simple. Real Life. Fridays at 8 p.m.