The 'Standard Equipment/Options' Section has checks for even more recommended equipment and options which affect comfort, convenience, and/or resale value. Consumer Reports recommends that you consider the following options if they fit your needs: remote keyless entry, central locking system, power mirrors, heated seats, and air conditioning.

Front and side crash judgments (for driver and passenger on the crash side) are from Consumer Reports' interpretation of results from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests. These simulate a head-on crash at 35 mph and a crash in which a car traveling 17 mph is hit from the side at 34 mph.

Off-set crash results are based on 40 mph offcenter collision tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an insurance-industry organization that ranks cars good, acceptable, marginal, or poor.

NA means the information is not available - the vehicle wasn't tested or tested recently, or data was unusable or not applicable.

These findings are based on Consumer Report's interpretation of Government and insurance-industry data, and on manufacturer's specifications.

Base Price - The price of the vehicle with only standard equipment (no packages or options).

Consumer Reports Bottom Line Price - The place to start when negotiating. It takes into account the current dealer incentives and holdbacks that may be in effect.

Dealer - Dealer installed option.

Dealer Advertising Fee - See the 'Consumer Reports Guide to Buying' section.

Dealer Holdback - A percentage of the total MSRP that the manufacturer holds and then gives back to the dealer, often at the end of the year or quarter. Holdback may vary from dealer to dealer and may depend upon other factors such as dealer quotas.

Dealer Invoice Price - The maximum amount the dealer pays the manufacturer for a vehicle. Given manufacturers use of dealer incentives and holdbacks, it is no longer your bottom line when vehicles are in good supply.

Destination Charge - The cost to ship the vehicle from the factory to the dealer.

Gas Guzzler Tax - A tax on vehicles that get poor gas mileage.

Group - Not available for individual purchase.

Customer Rebates - Discounts given by the manufacturer to the customer to increase the sales of a particular model. Customer incentives or rebates are usually advertised discounts that a buyer receives from the manufacturer and signs over to the dealer as part of the down payment.

Dealer Incentive - Discounts given by the manufacturer to the dealer to increase the sales of a particular model. Dealer incentives are unadvertised discounts dealers get from the manufacturer; knowing about one gives you more room to negotiate.

Luxury Tax - A tax on passenger vehicles that have a purchase price over $38,000.

Manufacturer Code - A code assigned to a model, package, option or other equipment by the manufacturer.

Model - The designation which identifies a particular vehicle that a manufacturer produces (eg. Taurus, Camaro, 325i). A trim line further delineates the model.

MSRP - Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. The retail price is set by the manufacturer. The government requires all new cars to have a list price or sticker price.

Not Available - Not available on this Trim Line.

Not Reported - Status not provided by manufacturer.

Option Packages - Manufacturers bundle and price equipment options in packages to simplify the manufacturing process. They're typically given names like Convenience, Preferred Equipment or Quick Order. If you want most of the options included, a package may be a good deal.
Package - Available as part of an option package (see the Equipment Packages Section).

Port Installed - Equipment or features installed at the port of entry rather than at the factory.

Standard - Standard equipment for this model (see the Standard Equipment and Options Section).

Trim Line - Most car models come in two or more trim lines, such as 'LX,' 'DX,' or 'EX'. Each trim line has different standard equipment, packages and options available.

Whether you're buying or leasing your new car, pickup, minivan, or sport utility vehicle, the experts at Consumer Reports can help you make the right decision. Use our 60-plus years of automotive experience to assist you in getting the best deal.
 
When you purchase a New Car Price Report, this section provides information to get you ready to negotiate for your new car. There is advice to help you:

• use the Consumer Reports Bottom Line Price,
• shop online for a new car,
• take charge at the dealership,
• understand the kind of deal to expect,
• avoid dealer extras.

To get all our buying advice and information, click here to order a report.

Low monthly prices in newspapers and television ads may look like a great deal. But leasing is a far more complicated transaction than buying. Incomprehensible contracts and large hidden costs for early termination or excess wear and tear all add to the complexity of a lease. Unless you're a tough negotiator and a gentle driver, you could end up paying much more than you should.

When you purchase a New Car Price Report, this section will provide information to help you negotiate the best terms on a lease, give advice on common mistakes with helpful leasing tips and traps to avoid.

To get all our leasing advice and information, click here to order a report.

The material provided in this report is gathered by Consumers Union from its own resources and outside experts.