Used Cars: Used vs. New SUV, ford store, mazda protege

Question
I'm looking for a slightly used or a new SUV and I wanted to know if you could point out some of the pros and cons.  I was also interested in finding out what is meant by dealers placing a 2007 vehicle in a "new" category.  Is there drop in the price as there is in a used 2007 vehicle?  I'm looking for something relatively cheap like an Escape.  I plan on putting down between $4000 - $5000 and my credit scores are:  693, 704 and 721.  I have a dead 1998 Mazda Protege to trade in as well, the transmission is no good on it.  Do dealers give rebates and/or incentives on "new" 2007 models?

If there's anything you can think of to help, please let me know.

Thank you

Answer
In my opinion, a low mile used, is the best way to go, a dealers still have many 07 new vehicles in stock, the determining factor in new or used is if the vehicle has ever been titled, an escape is an excellent choice, buy from a ford store and buy ford certified pre owned, they have special rates on these and with your credit scores you should qualify, 4.9 up to 48 mos, 5.9 up to 60 mos.
If you live nearby I have some certified escapes, if you don't just make sure it is Ford certified no other company certification ford only....let me know where you live