Cars with the Largest Hidden Rebates

You might be wondering why manufacturers don't just give the rebate directly to the consumer. It's because hidden rebates allow manufacturers to discount their vehicles without "cheapening" the product.

This is why most luxury car makers tend to offer hidden rebates in lieu of customer cash back.

The largest hidden rebates can be as much as $9,000 - as is the case with the 2011 Cadillac STS - but most range between $500 and $3,000.

Dealers are not obligated to pass the rebates to the consumer, but if you follow our car negotiation method, or use the free CarWoo service, the hidden rebates will likely be passed through to you in the form of a lower purchase price.

Lexus, in particular, has increased their hidden rebates this month. The 2011 Lexus LX 570 now has a $3,000 hidden rebate, up 200% compared to last month. The 2011 GS 450h, IS 250C, and IS F all come with $2,000 in hidden rebates - up 100% since last month.

Here is a list of the largest hidden rebates currently being offered. Most are for leftover 2011 models.

• 2011 Cadillac STS - $9,000
• 2011 Cadillac DTS - $7,000
• 2011 Chevrolet Impala - $5,000
• 2011 Chrysler 300 - $5,000
• 2011 Chevrolet HHR - $4,000
• 2011 Dodge Durango - $4,000
• 2011 Range Rover - $4,000
• 2012 Chevrolet Impala - $4,000
• 2011 Chrysler 200 - $4,000
• 2011 Dodge Nitro - $3,000
• 2011 Jeep Compass - $3,000
• 2011 Land Rover LR2 - $3,000
• 2011 Lexus LS 460 - $3,000