With 2011 in the books, the industry's attention will be turning to the brand new models slated to be released next year, with many new compact cars leading the way. Automoblog recently took a look at the most-anticipated models for the new year.
The Scion iQ looks like Toyota's answer to models like the Smart Fortwo, Fiat 500 and Mini Cooper, and the car's $15,000 price tag could attract a slew of budget buyers. The vehicle is reported to get in the high 30s in terms of MPGs, and the car's four-cylinder engine will reportedly provide 94 horsepower - more than enough for the car's small frame.
Another small car on the way next year is the Mitsubishi i. This electric vehicle has already sold quite well in Japan, and now comes to the U.S. as the first mass-produced electric car to be rated with an MPG equivalent of higher than 100. The model comes with a $7,500 federal tax credit as well.
Other cars that the news source is excited for includes the Ford Escape, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Volkswagen Golf R.
Even if you plan on upgrading when one of these new models is released, it still pays to focus on auto maintenance for your current car. A vehicle that needs significant car repairs or maintenance work will not fetch as high a trade-in value as one that doesn't, so be sure to take your car in for a vehicle diagnostic before you visit the dealer.