Best 5 New-Car Deals for September

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September marks the official transition in the auto business from one model year to the next. Cars and trucks on dealers’ lots that were still brand-new in August suddenly become the vehicular equivalent of day-old bread. As a result, automakers’ sales incentives tend to spike each fall to help dealers clean house of what are now last year’s models.

Unfortunately for consumers, a banner year for the auto industry means there are fewer bargains to go around this fall. Dealers have generally been able to clear their stocks of the most-popular 2011 models, particularly smaller and more-fuel efficient cars and crossover SUVs. You won’t find clearance sales on models like subcompact Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris, but if you have need for a larger vehicle, or one that’s being discontinued or redesigned, the deals are ripe for the picking.

This month we’re highlighting the 5 model-year 2011 cars and trucks that carry the absolute richest sales incentives among all vehicles.

2011 BMW Z4

Deal: $4,500 additional dealer discount and 0.9 percent financing to 36 months, 1.9 to 60 months, 2.9 to 72 months. This quick and nimble little two-seat roadster is essentially a grown-up’s toy, with svelte styling, a choice of three inline-six-cylinder engines, playful rear-drive handling and virtually zero practicality. Even though it comes with a retractable hardtop, those living in northern states will want to store it for the winter.