Motor Trend reports, "General Motors has rolled out its latest round of pricing plans that raise the average MSRP across its 2009 model year lineup by 3.5 percent, while initiating a zero percent financing promotion or handing out bonuses to cash buyers."   A "72 hour sale" the automaker launches today "will give zero percent interest for 72 months when qualified buyers purchase or lease most Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac and GMC products. Furthermore, a $500 cash bonus will be allotted to customers who purchase vehicles rather than lease."  The "sale" ends June 30th.

Edmunds Inside Line reports that the price increases "are designed 'to recover a portion of GM's increased commodity costs, increased content and fuel-economy technology,' the automaker said Monday in a statement. GM would not discuss specific price increases on specific models, but said 'the average increase is just over $1,000.'"

Kicking Tires says the General blames the price hike on "increased content…but most experts add that a weak dollar and increased costs of materials might also be to blame." 

In a separate post, Kicking Tires lists models included in the sale.  It's worth nothing that the list includes only 2008 models, and no hybrids. 

So if you're interested in the improved 2009 models, be prepared to pay more for them.  But if one of the outgoing 2008s will meet your needs, this might be a good time to call a dealership.  Just watch out for the delivery charges.

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