Use an online estimator for El Paso County to avoid surprises at the DMV.

If you buy a car at a dealership in Colorado Springs but live in an unincorporated part of El Paso County (like parts of Falcon or Black Forest), you may not have to pay the city portion of the sales tax.

Dealerships on Motor City are notoriously busy on Saturdays; visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday provides more leverage for negotiation. Expand map Where to Shop Administrative

In Colorado Springs, the geography dictates vehicle popularity. Due to the proximity to the Rocky Mountains and frequent winter snow, SUVs and trucks with AWD or 4WD capabilities are the "standard" currency of the local market.

Naturally aspirated engines lose roughly 3% of their power for every 1,000 feet of elevation. Many local drivers prefer turbocharged or supercharged engines, which compensate better for the thinner air.

Prioritize AWD or 4WD for Colorado winters.