Epic foliage, cooler weather and new four-wheelers hitting showroom floors are trademarks of the fall season. But while the 2015 models may be making headlines, there are plenty of new 2014s that can now be had on the cheap – if you know where to look. Here are five proven tricks to get you the most truck for your buck.

1. Next Year’s Models: Your Friend Now
When a model undergoes a complete overhaul – in this year’s case the 2015 Ford F-150 comes to mind – it often leaves the ‘outdated’ technology in the dust. But those 2014’s are still top of the line. Prices may not change much year over year for gradual model improvements (2013 F-150s weren’t nearly as discounted last autumn), yet all-new models can result in the last generation being steeply discounted. The first-generation aluminum body and resulting MPG improvements on one of the best-selling trucks in America would undoubtedly get your friends jealous – but so will being able to tell them you knocked thousands off the sticker price of a new ‘14 ride by waiting until only a few steel boxes were left on the lot. Keep in mind that this does not always apply to vehicles scheduled for discontinuation. Toyota’s FJ Cruisers have been selling like bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapenos for the past few months.

2. Don’t be Tempted by Trim
Packing enough performance upgrades in your 4WD to conquer Dakar is tempting. But for the budget-conscious off-roader without a chase truck or support crew, the tuned exhaust and trick suspension of a TRD Pro package may not be necessary on a Toyota Tundra or 4Runner. Many basic trim options for today’s SUVs and trucks offer all of the tools average drivers need to enjoy the great outdoors. The barebones Tradesman package on the Ram 1500 may not offer plush carpeting, but a plastic liner is easier to clean the mud off of after a good weekend. The only added feature you should really think hard about is four-wheel drive. Sure, creature comforts are nice, but considering off-roading is also about escaping from modernity, there’s something to be said about keeping it simple.

3. Pick Your Dealer Wisely
AAA, credit unions and even some insurance companies offer concierge services to hook you up with fleet contacts at dealerships they’ve built relationships with. So once you’ve figured out what vehicle you really want to drive home in, they can often deliver a price near fleet rates, way below sticker price. Now that you know somebody who knows somebody, these institutions will work together to ensure you get a good deal. You wind up signing on a Wrangler still made in Toledo with your lead generator, which leads the dealer to continue receiving a steady stream of customers on referral.

Another thing to keep mind is location. Those large lots with amazing customer amenities and expansive lobbies in major urban hubs don’t pay for themselves. Your vehicle will likely incur some of that overhead, so focus on the outliers and smaller dealerships to keep prices low. Finally, note that the best prices will always be on what’s already in stock. If you really want a shiny ’14 Ford Explorer at a dealer 1000 miles away not on the lot… Chances are you’re going to pay a bit more for it.

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