What You Need to Know Before Car Shopping Today: 7/8/17

CARS.COM — With the Fourth of July finished and summer driving season in full swing, now is the ideal time to be putting some miles on your family hauler, putting the top down on your roadster or maybe just putting some effort into learning those auto apps on your phone. And if you're in the market for putting some money down on a new car this weekend, we can help — check out our buying guide below.

Related: More Car-Buying News

What car should I buy? That depends on a lot of factors, but our reviews can help. Check out our recent additions: 

• Pickup trucks: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

• SUVs: Volkswagen Atlas, Volkswagen Tiguan, Audi Q5

• Sedans: Audi S3, Toyota Camry

• Fuel sippers: Toyota Prius Prime, Chevrolet Bolt EV

• Hatchbacks: Audi A7

• Luxury cars: Audi RS 7

• Sports cars: Jaguar F-Type, Honda Civic Type R, McLaren 570GT, Honda Civic Si

• Wagons: Volvo V60 Cross Country

Anything I should wait for? The redesigned 2018 Toyota Camry hits dealers late this summer, and Ford has some updates on the F-150 coming this fall.

Should I buy new or used? Read up on the pros and cons of each. If you go used, review our used-car buyers' checklist and consider whether you want a certified pre-owned car.

How much can I afford? Read our primer.

Should I finance, lease or pay cash? That depends, but this might help you decide.

How do I get the best lease rate? Bone up on common lease terminology, plus our tips.

How do I get the best financing rate? Our game plan lays out some advice. While you're at it, here's what you need to know about auto loans and what you'll need to get one.

Anything I shouldn't do when I'm at the dealer? Yep. Avoid these pitfalls.

Should I get an extended warranty? That depends. Here's what you need to know.

How do I sell or trade in my old car? Learn how to prep your car before you sell it to a dealer, how to trade it in and how to deal with taxes and other considerations. If you still owe money on your old car, read this. Finally, if you want to sell it private party, here's how to create the picture-perfect ad and how to seal the deal.