Video: New Car Sales on the Rise

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)-With gas prices on the rise more people are trading for newer models with improved gas mileage. WCBI News talk  with a local car salesman about vehicle sales in our area.

Cars, trucks, and family size SUVs. Whatever type of vehicle you are shopping for, now could be the best time to invest in a new one. Russell Street, who has been selling cars for more than 25 years says this year the odds are in favor of the buyers.

“Last year has been really good. Interest rates are pretty low, an all time low and inventors are good. So it’s a good time to buy,” says Russell Street.

Despite the current economy, dealers here at Columbus Nissan are seeing folks from different backgrounds come in and trade in their old vehicles for new ones.

“Sometimes they are trading in for more fuel efficient models; which means savings for them. And they have put off trading in for a few years so its time to get back into a new car,” says Street.

According to Lowndes County Tax Assessor, Greg Andrews, sales for new vehicles in 2012 increased to more than 1500 vehicles sold than those in 2011. And close to 60 thousand vehicles sold total. No matter where you plan on purchasing your new ride, most dealerships are offering deals for buyers.

“Usually they have special rates as for as financing and then you have rebates and discounts so there are numerous incentives to spur a new car buyers,” says Street.

Families of all sizes are purchasing vehicles to help save on gas. There is one vehicle that seems to be the most popular at Columbus Nissan.

“Probably the Nissan Altima is the number one seller we have and its an all new body style,” says Street.

Used car sales are also seeing positive numbers.