The Dream Slips Away--to D.C.

Wondering how you can afford it?

Well, they don't wonder in Washington, D.C.

The typical new vehicle is now more expensive than ever, averaging $30,500 in 2012, according to TrueCar.com data, and heading up again as makers curb the incentives that helped make their products more affordable during the recession when they were desperate for sales. 

According to the 2013 Car Affordability Study by Interest.com, only in Washington could the typical household swing the payments, the median income there running $86,680 a year.

You might have noticed that the price of nice used cars is also pretty high.  The reason?  See above.

Also see "Cash for Clunkers."