When are new cars released?

Most vehicle manufacturers release new models toward the end of the summer and continue through the early fall months, typically from late July through early October. October 1 is the unofficial launch date for new cars, although many hit the sales lots before this date.

Manufacturers often then begin production on the next year's models during the late fall and early winter months — often a slower time for vehicle sales, according to U.S. News & World Report. Once the newer models are released, most dealerships host both the new and older models on sales lots and, in many cases, feature the older models at a discounted price during the busy shopping months of October, November and December.