NEW YORK (MONEY Magazine) - Consumers flock to the hottest, highest-rated cars and trucks -- and dealers know it. You'll have a lot less leverage in negotiating for a gotta-have car. Still, a few strategies can level the showroom floor and keep the price within reach.

Dealers often dangle precious models and assure you the price is take it or leave it. That's no reason to stop shopping -- or to be talked into a car that's already on the lot. Say "Thanks, but I'll keep looking." When a dealer won't budge, ask to negotiate on his next shipment.

"You gain an advantage with cash in hand," says Mary Butler, managing editor of Cars.com. Paying all at once can knock down the price or beat another customer's offer. (Plus, no interest!) Some dealers prefer a liquid, no-hassle transaction, even if it means forgoing financing profit.

Many dealers maintain lists of preferred customers to whom they give first dibs on hot models. Know anyone who is a steady customer at a single dealership? If so, ask your friend to take you in for an introduction.

Use the Internet to search dealers in other areas or states. Ask your local dealer to do some legwork himself. If he resists researching on your behalf, Butler says, "be ready to walk." If you end up buying from outside your area, you'll likely pay an extra destination charge (or buy a one-way plane ticket), but a better deal can mitigate those costs.

The ego boost of being first on your block with a hot new model fades fast. Waiting until supply rises and any hype surrounding a release cools is the best way to avoid paying a premium. It's happened with Chrysler's PT Cruiser, the VW New Beetle and others. These days, used versions start showing up on buying sites like autotrader.com and cars.com or on eBay within six months to a year, for far below sticker prices.