Though I’m currently not looking for a new vehicle, I know plenty of people who are and who turn to me as the so-called automotive “expert.” (Please, no commentary from the balconies.)

One source I use is Intellichoice. One problem with auto buy mags is that their information can be out of date rather quickly. Even weekly rags are limited in their stock. I found Intellichoice provides plenty of up-to-date info, suggestions, and variety without overwhelming with non-essential info. (Here’s looking at you, Cars.com and Edmunds.)

Though I’m currently not looking for a new vehicle, I know plenty of people who are and who turn to me as the so-called automotive “expert.” (Please, no commentary from the balconies.)

One source I use is Intellichoice http://www.intellichoice.com. One problem with auto buy mags is that their information can be out of date rather quickly. Even weekly rags are limited in their stock. I found Intellichoice provides plenty of up-to-date info, suggestions, and variety without overwhelming with non-essential info. (Here’s looking at you, Cars.com and Edmunds.)

PRIMEDIA’s IntelliChoice.com, the leading source for automotive ownership cost and value analysis, today announced its “Best Deals of the Month” for July 2006. The new list shows that despite the renewed onslaught of incentives from U.S. manufacturers, they have yet to make a dent in the dominance of foreign automakers in the traditional car categories.

“Despite efforts since last year’s heavy incentive sales, the U.S. manufacturers have not been able to exceed the value of the imports in the car categories. Of note, this month’s ‘Best Deals’ list has only one American model among the non-utility categories: the Chevy Corvette,” said James Bell, publisher of IntelliChoice.com. “It’s important to remember that heavy incentive and rebate programs can accelerate the rate of depreciation on vehicles. Given that most vehicles are owned less than four years, low residual values tend to lessen owner satisfaction with the brand and impact loyalty purchases.”

Bell added, “Although U.S. manufacturers are noted as having the best known and most aggressive year-end close out sales, all manufacturers are currently offering some sort of incentive. It is a buyer’s market right now and purchasers should carefully research these programs before entering a dealership.”

IntelliChoice.com’s “Best Deals of the Month” identify new cars, trucks and SUVs with the best ownership cost value in 29 respective classes. Selections are based on current vehicle pricing, market conditions and the lowest national manufacturer consumer rebate. In addition, IntelliChoice.com uses the latest information from numerous automotive resources to evaluate what it costs to buy, own, and operate each new model-year trim line over a five year basis.

The full press release and a full list of “Best Deals” vehicles can be found here.