(This article originally appeared in the August 2025 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members, who can log in to access our digital version and archive. Basic members can save on a membership upgrade and access the magazine.)

It can be expensive getting from point A to point B. But servicemembers, veterans, and certain family members can save some dough.

There are discounts on select vehicles nationwide through the manufacturers. Plus, some local dealerships offer additional incentives to veterans and their loved ones. It never hurts to ask those individual lots about additional offers.

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But before you head in, call the dealership and ask the staff to email an “out the door” price so you aren’t surprised by fees and add-ons, according to Keith Barry, a senior autos reporter at Consumer Reports.

“If a dealership wants you to come in before they’ll talk pricing, find another dealership,” he told Military Officer.

When you do arrive, remember that you’re in charge — not the dealership, Barry noted.

“Many dealerships want to move the process along quickly so you’ll agree to a sale,” he said. “If it helps, bring a trusted friend or family member with you to the dealership, and schedule in breaks to look over numbers and slow down the process.”

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What Works for You?

If you’re retired — or even work remotely — and enjoy regular road trips, consider a hybrid model.

“Today’s hybrids aren’t just tiny hatchbacks. You can also get hybrid versions of comfortable, powerful SUVs and sedans, and they’re among the best and most reliable cars,” Barry said.

Always test drive the vehicle you intend to purchase, especially if you’re less mobile.

“You might find the perfect car on paper, but make sure it’s easy to get
in and out of, that you can find a comfortable seating position, and that
the technology is easy to use,” Barry said. “If you’re buying a used car, get it inspected to make sure it’s in good shape and won’t leave you stranded.”

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Military Discounts

Oftentimes, to be eligible for military discounts, those no longer serving must have received an honorable discharge, among other factors. In addition, some discounts have expiration dates. Be sure to read the small text and understand each dealership’s definition of a servicemember.

Military Officer contacted nearly 50 vehicle brands to gather information on available discounts. Here are some deals provided by those who responded. You can find out more details on their websites.

• Acura: $750 savings on new Acura models when financing or leasing through Acura Financial Services.
  
  
• Alfa Romeo: $500 toward the retail purchase or lease of an eligible vehicle, including 2024 and 2025 Giulia, Stelvio, and Tonale vehicles.
  
  
• Audi: $1,000 toward the lease or purchase of some new models.
  
  
• BMW: $500 to $5,000 off MSRP for new vehicle lease or purchase.
  
  
• Honda: $500 savings on a new Honda when financing or leasing through Honda Financial Services.
  
  
• Lexus: $1,000 rebate to eligible U.S. military personnel, used toward any new Lexus vehicle purchase or leased through a dealer and Lexus Financial Services. The offer also extends to household members of eligible U.S. military personnel, including Gold Star families.
  
  
• Mazda: $500 toward any new Mazda vehicle.
  
  
• Mitsubishi: $500 toward all 2024 and 2025 models.
  
  
• Stellantis: Military incentives apply to the purchase or lease of new vehicles across Stellantis’ portfolio of U.S. brands, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.
  
  
• Subaru: $500 toward the purchase or lease of a new Subaru.
  
  
• Volkswagen: $500 toward the purchase or lease of select, new Volkswagen vehicles.
  
  
• Volvo: $500 bonus on the purchase or lease of a new Volvo as well as a $500 bonus on the purchase of a certified vehicle by Volvo.