Buying A Ford Explorer In Austin, Texas

The Ford Explorer first rolled out in 1990 and helped start the sports utility revolution. Previously SUVs had been a special interest vehicle, reserved for those who needed 4WD, extra towing capacity, and more passenger space than that offered by trucks. The Explorer changed that, and we began seeing SUVs all over the road. As this phase has passed and more people are opting for smaller cars, why would you still want to try an Explorer? The best answer is that you need an Explorer: for work, for back roads, for towing a trailer, for a large family, for large cargo needs, and for safety. Before you buy, explore Austin area Ford dealers.

Ford Explorers have a host of benefits for the consumer, including:

*Voice-activated navigation.
*Fold-flat third row seats.
*4x4.
*7115 pound maximum towing capacity.
*Standard electronic trailer sway control.
*Five star safety.
*Sirrius travel link and satellite radio.
*Available voice-activated Sync.
*2011 models have Ford's new stability control system, Curve Control. Other Fords should be rolling out with the system in 2015.
*2011 models have new powertrains, which increase fuel efficiency.

The sticker price for a 2010 Explorer starts at $30,095 without added features. Other models, including the Eddie Bauer, costs about $38,00. It is important to remember that this is the MSRP, or the manufacturer's suggested retail price. If you had to pay the MSRP, there would be no sense in visiting different dealers or negotiating prices and terms. You can find the MSRP very easily online or even on the sticker at the lot. Another figure you may want to check out is the invoice price. This is the price that the dealer has paid for the car (which may be less than stated if the manufacturer gave the dealer a discount).

But the most important number for car shoppers is the average price people are paying in your area. For example,let's say you want a basic factory model 2010 Explorer. The MSRP is $30,095; the invoice price is about $25,001; and the average price paid in the Austin area is about $26,191. As you can see, this is well below the MSRP. Knowing the price that real people have paid at real dealers in your community is tremendously helpful. Some online resources offers a great tool to help you get these figures - which, of course, the dealers don't necessarily want you to know!

There is a host of Austin Ford dealers that are reputable, excellent businesses and that can put you in a Explorer for a fair (or even great) price. The internet is invaluable in your search for the right one: not only can you visit each dealer's website, browse their inventory, and get a quote, you can also find consumer forums that provide consumer reviews. While you have to weigh the value of each review - just as you would if you were talking to a neighbor, friend, or coworker - they can be a very helpful resources.

Visit the sites and come armed with knowledge. You're in the driver's seat in this situation, and you should be able to find a great deal for yourself.