*This does not apply to hot selling models, or models with hard to get options or colors*
That being said, if it's on the lot that means they had a bunch and supply was no problem. You can get the same deal at the start of the year as at the end when the "discounts" are on. It just depends on your haggling ability. All too often people come on the lot, see a small discount at model year end and think they have gotten out of the displeasure of negotiating. WRONG! Many other people have been drinving that model for almost a year alredy, bought it new, and paid less. If you arm yourself with the proper information and follow a few simple rules of negotiating there is no best time of the year. Maybe near closing time if you know already what you want, the dealer has it, and you offer a lean deal after a few negotiation sessions. You need to find out what that sweet spot or lean deal they will take is- usually about 3% or $300.00 over invoice. Never be afraid to ask for the invoice, and yes $300 over is plenty of money for them. They get more than that from company withholdings you never hear about. Lastly off the top my head- once you get your good deal don't screw it up with a bad financing rate. Play with the final cost of the vehicle vs. financing rate vs length of loan. Never just talk about a payment- you will get screwed (unless you have figured and memorized the numbers backwards and forwards- as numbers don't lie). Also- don't forget you can dicker with all the dealer installed options like go-fast spoilers and side-jiggies. They can separate your money from you at every stage of the game, know each one and you will be fine. Actually it's fun to watch them squirm as they try at each level to make up for their "giving in" on the orginal price, financing, options, etc. Lastly if you're looking at a domestic, for criminy's sake get the employee discount (Option I GM, A Plan Ford)- pay for it if you have to- NOBODY CARES! it just means they sold another unit. Good Luck Hunting!