It’s tax season! With many people getting refunds, they’re looking to put that money to work for them, and for some, that means buying a new (or new to them) vehicle.
But dealers are prepared for this, and many offer cost-savings to bring the prices down during tax season, enticing buyers to splurge. That means you could score a really good deal — and even get some vehicles for less than MSRP — if you do your homework and find all those discounts. And don’t forget, because new car sales figures dropped in 2025, you could easily find some bargaining room as dealers look to lower their inventory.
According to Consumer Reports, these are the vehicles selling for below sticker price, some as much as 4% off, as of February 2025.
2025 Buick Encore GX Avenir AWD
The 2025 Buick Encore GX currently retails for $33,100, making it a mid-range SUV option, budget-wise. As of the time of writing, Car Reports noted consumers were saving an average of $1,169, bringing the vehicle below its MSRP.
Worth noting, GM has several other discounts it offers that can drive the price down even further, including offers for first responders and military members, plus a loyalty discount for leases.
2025 Honda Odyssey
If you’re looking for a three-row minivan to take the kids to soccer or hockey practice, or you simply want a roomy vehicle for traveling, don’t count out the 2025 Honda Odyssey.
The MSRP is listed at $43,370, but there are average savings of nearly $900, dropping it down to around $42,000. If you’re a member of the military, Honda offers a $500 appreciation offer, per Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
2025 BMW 230i Coupe
Looking to step up your options with savings on a luxury car, the BMW 230i Coupe currently ranks number 3 out of 22 in the four-five seat sports cars category, per Consumer Reports. It also gets a stunning 45 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice in these days of higher gas prices.
The MSRP for this vehicle sits at $39,600, but an average cost savings of $1,054 brings it to approximately $38,546. Plus, there are incentives for military and recent college graduates.
2025 Subaru Outback Limited XT AWD
I will always recommend Subarus. I have owned them for more than 12 years and have seen firsthand how reliable they are. They have some of the highest safety ratings, making them an excellent family option.
The 2025 Limited XT has an MSRP of $40,310, but Consumer Reports lists an average savings of $1,279, bringing the average transaction price to just over $39,000. Subaru offers a $500 military discount to active duty and reserves, veterans, and retirees who meet separation criteria. This discount is applied after negotiating for the best price.
2025 Acura RDX SH-AWD
The Acura RDX is a luxury compact SUV that ranks 5 out of 27 in the category. This model has improved handling, which is a perk if you’re an off-roader or often drive in bad weather.
The list price is $44,700 but there are currently deals and discounts averaging $1,086, bringing the total sales cost down to around $43,614. You can add on military appreciation or graduate offers saving $750 or $500, respectively. If you’re a current Acura owner looking to upgrade, you can get a loyalty discount of $1,250.
Leftover Inventory from 2024
According to Car Edge, dealers are trying to get rid of the 2024 inventory they are still holding over from the year prior. In order to order new inventory for 2025 and beyond, they need to clear overstock. And the way they do this? Offering steep discounts.
That means you could score a brand-new vehicle with minimal miles under the MSRP. It’ll be a prior-year model, but unless you’re waiting on a specific technology only available in 2025 models, you can’t go wrong.
Hone Those Negotiation Skills for Further Discounts
Here’s the deal, though. You don’t need to rely solely on these incentives and savings. The MSRP is always negotiable if you know how to speak the dealer’s language and negotiate. Don’t allow the salesperson to distract you with talk about monthly payments and the MSRP.
Do your research, see which discounts are available, and get competing quotes, because why not pit the dealers against each other for a sale? You’ll likely come ahead in that situation. And if they’re not willing to work with you, you can always walk away and find someone who will.
