The 7 Best Cars to Buy Now, According to U.S. News & World Report

Slow sales, good performance in the U.S. News Best Cars rankings and significant incentives make these cars and SUVs smart buys this September, according to U.S. News & World Report.

To make U.S. News' monthly list, a car must meet three criteria: declining sales, strong manufacturer incentives and excellent scores in the U.S. News Best Cars rankings.

"Interest rates are inching up, so we're seeing fewer and fewer zero-percent financing deals," says Jamie Page Deaton, executive editor of U.S. News Best Cars. "However, we are seeing an uptick in lease deals, which often have lower monthly payments than most financing deals. A great lease deal can make it easier to fit a highly ranked car or SUV into your budget."

This month, U.S. News Best Cars has identified seven cars and SUVs that not only offer hefty savings but are also a pleasure to own.

They include:

Hyundai Sonata

Toyota Sequoia

Subaru Forester

Jaguar F-Pace

Dodge Durango

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The cars on the U.S. News list of Best Cars to Buy Now have either year-over-year sales declines or slower-than-average sales growth, indicating a good negotiating position for shoppers.

Vehicles on the Best Cars to Buy Now list are available with low interest rates and cash back offers, as well as special lease deals.

Finally, all cars on the list have an overall score of at least 8.2 (out of 10) in the U.S. News Best Cars rankings.

Find out more at www.usnews.com.