Item: The US Federal Reserve will have to stop cutting rates and start raising rates if inflation heats up. Current rates may not last.
Item: Car dealers are going to sell about 2 million units less in 2008 than in 2006. They are under tremendous pressure to wheel and deal those puppies off the lot.
Item: Cars are better built and lasting longer than ever. A 98 Lexus will have fewer reported issues than a 2006 Volkswagen.
Item: You can find top quality Japanese cars affordable -- and still strong -- five to seven years old. For similar price and quality, think American cars in the same condition three to four years old.
Item: For a $250 to $300 monthly payment, a $7K or $8K loan is perfect. And from Edmunds to Consumer Reports, from expert after expert, you'll hear there are outstanding vehicle values in that price range. Better than expected quality from budget lines such as Suzuki. Better than expected quality on the new Chevy Malibu, too. (Better than an Accord!!??)
