Hidden Dealer Incentives Up to $10,000 on Some Models

One caveat: the following numbers represent hidden dealer incentives, meaning they are not directly given to consumers. However, snow and other sales woes over the past several months mean that a large number of dealer cash offerings are likely to be passed on to consumers.

Starting at the lower end, Infiniti's crossover SUV models like the 2010 FX50 and QX56 will net dealers roughly $2000-$6,000 on every model sold, as will the M45 sedan. 2010 Volvos like the C70, S80, V70 and XC70 will be in the same range, starting at $3,000 and topping out at $6,000.

Interestingly, the sleek BMW 6-series is getting a healthy $10,000 to $12,500 in dealer incentives, in traditional and more sporty M trims for the 2010 models. Most 2009 models will net dealerships about $10,000.

Many 2009 models are getting hidden incentives that range from $4,000 to up to $10,000, including offerings from Cadillac, Volvo, and even Land Rover. Dealers are trying to clear space on their lots for new models, and buyers will want to keep these numbers in mind when they are ready to negotiate.