CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Monday, Tree.com announced the launch of LendingTreeAutos.com, which in addition to helping consumers obtain auto loans, will also assist consumers in deciding which vehicle to purchase next.

The new site is designed to provide a variety of car-buying information, including new- and used-vehicle searches, vehicle history reports, monthly payments calculators, quotes from dealers, tips and advice, auto insurance and much more.

Basically, the company is building on its established platform of providing auto loans to enhance a customer's experience.  

To offer additional information via the site, LendingTreeAutos.com has partnered with various companies such as Autobytel, Vast, Kelley Blue Book and eVox.

"Tree.com empowers consumers with tools and information they need to make smart financial choices," explained Gary Pierce, national account director for LendingTreeAutos.com.

"Buying a car is a major purchase — and in today's environment, it's even more important to find the best car for the best price and maintain the value of that investment over time. For years, we've been a trusted partner to consumers financing their car purchases. It was a logical next step to provide a complete resource to guide them through every step of the car-buying process," he continued.

According to a separate statement from Autobytel, this company will provide a price quote and dealer selector platform for LendingTreeAutos.com.

"This is good news for car buyers and dealers alike. It provides new opportunities for both by connecting millions of in-market consumers with an expansive and highly qualified network of auto retailers," said Mark Garms, Autobytel's chief operating officer.

"Through the power of Autobytel's online automotive expertise and LendingTree's proven, consumer-friendly financing tools, car buyers will have access to compelling financing offers and a convenient car-purchasing process, while auto dealers will have the opportunity to serve a greater number of in-market consumers," he continued.

Basically, Autobytel indicated that this agreement is an extension of a long-term marketing relationship between its Car.com Special Finance Program and LendingTree.

So in addition to helping LendingTreeAutos.com customers, the new agreement also includes opportunities for Autobytel's dealer network to offer financing options to their "premium" credit customers from the new LendingTree site. The program also offers dealers the continuation of the ability to obtain financing for credit-challenged buyers via the Car.com Special Finance Program.

"Given the economic pressures that many consumers are experiencing, we believe that it's more critical than ever before to provide access to the best car-purchasing experience and financing options available," noted Pierce. "Since both companies share a long-standing emphasis on consumer advocacy, the partnership between Autobytel and LendingTree was a natural fit.

"With LendingTreeAutos.com, we can ensure that consumers remain empowered to make the best possible decisions when it comes to buying a car so they can get the car they want, from the dealer they like at the price they need — and with the financing they can afford," he concluded.