mmarshall

No. Next-generation models are not always better. I've seen too many cases of extensively-redesigned cars not measuring up to their predecessors. The worst recent examples, IMO, are probably the Honda Civic, VW Jetta, and Subaru Forester (though all three vehicles continue to sell quite well), but there are others also.

stlgrym3

iTrader: (4)

i always like to buy after the mid-cycle refresh. you get all the kinks fixed and possible newer tech goodies that will carry on to the next generation.

ecr527

I made the mistake of buying my 2IS in it's first production year. It has rattles, TSIBs, recalls, etc etc. I would probably buy a car right after the mid-cycle refresh, so it gives the manufacturers time to work out all the bugs. I would personally avoid buying a car in it's last production year, just becuase I wouldn't want to be driving around in a new "old" car. unless I actually like the look of the previous gen.