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Rising Inventory Ushers In Year-End EV Sales, and Room For Negotiation

Rising Inventory Ushers In Year-End EV Sales, and Room For Negotiation

As electric vehicles increasingly populate the roads, understanding the ins and outs of the EV market can equip car buyers with leverage to negotiate big savings. Currently accounting for 7.9% of new car sales in America, the EV market is undeniably expanding. However, it’s not without its challenges. We’ll delve into the complexities behind the EV market’s growth, the latest EV inventory update, and which models have the best year-end deals this December.

The Current State of the EV Market

The EV market is growing, with electric vehicles now making up 7.9% of all new car sales in America. However, the market is experiencing its share of challenges. While some new electric models fly off the lots, others linger far longer. 

What’s behind the buildup of EVs on dealer lots? First, it’s worth pointing out that OEMs have ramped up production, sending more cars to dealer lots. But as it turns out, there aren’t as many buyers as they’d hoped for. And 57% of EV buyers are still opting for a Tesla, which sells directly to consumers. Other direct-to-consumer newcomers like Rivian, Fisker, and Lucid are also growing in market share. 

On top of that, there’s a natural shift happening in the market for EVs, one that’s been expected for a while. As 2024 approaches, we’re coming to the end of the ‘early adopter’ phase of EV sales. Many of the higher-income, more tech-curious drivers who were eager to go electric have already purchased an EV. What’s left is the rest of the auto market, which makes up the vast majority of buyers.

Why aren’t more car buyers choosing an EV? The lack of reliable charging infrastructure is the most commonly cited reason, with higher prices being a close second. Another reason for EV hesitation is the uncertainty of possible repair costs outside of warranty. Sure, fuel savings can add up quickly, but what would it cost to replace a damaged battery pack? Savvy buyers want to know more about the total cost of ownership.

But make no mistake: EV sales are still growing. They’re just not growing exponentially like they did a few years ago. Here’s a look at quarterly EV market share in America over the past three years.

All analysts predict EV sales to grow in the future, but the extent of growth varies. The consensus average stands at 35% EV market share in 2030. Growth rates will have to accelerate in order to achieve that. Time flies, and we’re only six years away.

EV Inventory Rises to End 2023

At CarEdge, we preach that to find the most negotiable cars, follow the inventory numbers. A key factor in understanding these sales dynamics is Market Day Supply. This indicator shows how long it would take to sell off current inventory at recent sales rates.

The entire new car market is undergoing a rapid rise in inventory. Our latest new car inventory update shows that several domestic car brands are seeing in excess of 75 days of market supply in December. In a healthy ‘normal’ market, that number is 45 to 60 days of supply. 

EV inventory has grown steadily in 2023. CarEdge Data has revealed some eye-opening figures. New EV inventory has reached unprecedented levels.

Take the Ford Mustang Mach-E, for instance. Its supply has skyrocketed to 337 days, a stark contrast to its initial hype as a ‘Tesla-killer’. Other popular models like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 are facing 125 and 156 days supply, respectively, despite their acclaimed ultra-fast charging speeds and industry accolades. The Kia EV6 is right up there too with 153 days of supply, more than double the inventory of one year ago. Nissan’s follow-up to the LEAF, the Ariya, now has an MDS of 209 days. Perhaps buyers are balking at a $50,000+ price tag for a Nissan crossover. Who would have thought?

Surprisingly, some of the least recommended EVs are selling more quickly. The Subaru Solterra actually has a relatively normal supply right now with a market day supply of 57 days. The Toyota bZ4X sits at 87 days. The Lexus RZ has 78 days of market supply. Why wouldn’t we recommend these three popular EVs for most buyers? They charge quite a bit slower than other options on the market for a similar price. Yet, loyal Subaru, Toyota and Lexus fans seem to be buying them.

Most other EV models are sitting on dealer lots for much, much longer. 

Here’s a snapshot of the current dealer inventory for new electric vehicles in America, excluding Tesla and other direct-to-consumer brands. We’ve included data from December and October to shed light on recent inventory trends:

MakeModelDay Supply (10-2023)Day Supply (12-2023)Total For Sale (12-2023)
AudiQ4 e-tron1111482967
AudiQ8 e-tron981173194
Audie-tron GT62229834
BMWi460823775
BMWi5N/A new model1142275
BMWi71291512032
BMWiX811134148
CadillacLyriq1511393981
ChevroletBolt EV601132390
ChevroletBolt EUV57755585
FordMustang Mach-E20433725334
FordF-150 Lightning18212413174
GenesisGV601901781723
GMCHummer EV8058876
HyundaiKona EV60109214
HyundaiIONIQ 51021258816
HyundaiIONIQ 6731565869
JaguarI-Pace647682379
KiaEV61061534741
KiaEV9N/A new modelN/A new model547
LexusRZN/A new model782441
MercedesEQS2211594224
MercedesEQS SUV22117686
MercedesEQE1441901397
MercedesEQE SUV100893198
MercedesEQB88933628
NissanAriya1081565435
NissanLeaf1612092706
PorscheTaycan2391422735
SubaruSolterra96571306
ToyotabZ4X102872459
VolkswagenID.412510311140
VolvoC40128105808
VolvoXC40 RechargeN/A1371519

This is NOT normal, folks. You can’t sugarcoat the fact that in America, electric vehicles are not selling as quickly as automakers had expected. That’s precisely why so many are sitting on dealer lots right now.

High interest rates are also a factor, as the cost of financing a $50,000+ vehicle is unattainable for many. The average price of an electric vehicle is $51,762 as of our latest EV price update.

Year-End EV Deals Are Here

Yes, EV inventory is sky-high, but what does this mean for potential EV buyers? First, the bad news. Our CarEdge Coaches are quite frankly shocked by how stubborn car dealers are refusing to lower EV sticker prices. Even with 150 to 300+ days of supply, up to 6 times the norm, most Ford dealers haven’t discounted Mustang Mach-Es or F-150 Lightnings. The same rings true for Mercedes-Benz’s growing electric lineup. 

The good news is that increasing inventory suggests that buyers certainly have more room to negotiate. This is especially true for models with a higher days supply. Recent spikes in EV inventory have already led to some CarEdge Community members successfully negotiating significant discounts off EV sticker prices. This trend indicates that EVs, contrary to what dealers will tell you, are indeed negotiable. Importantly, buyers should come prepared with negotiation know-how and recent car market insights. Prepare to save big on your next car with Deal School (100% FREE)

Here’s our comprehensive list of the best year-end EV sales, along with our negotiability score based on the inventory numbers shared above:

EV Financing Offers

EV deals this month

2023 Subaru Solterra: 0% APR for 72 months

2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E: 0.9% APR for 60 months + $3,000 cash offer+ No payments for 90 days

2024 Kia EV6: 0.9% APR for 48 months + $3,750 cash offer

2023 Nissan Ariya: 2.9% APR for 36 months + up to $3,750 cash offer

EV Lease Offers

Kia EV6 offers in December 2023

Tesla Model 3 RWD: $329 per month for 36 months with $4,500 due

Chevrolet Bolt EUV: $369/month for 36 month with $6,659

Tesla Model Y RWD: $399 per month for 36 months with $4,500 due

Kia EV6: $379/month for 36 months with $4,999 due

2023 Subaru Solterra: $399/month with $0 down payment

BMW i4: $499/month for 36 months with $4,599 due

Volvo XC40 Recharge and Volvo C40: Up to $8,500 in lease credit for qualified lessees

See all of the best year-end car deals in December

EV Prices Are Negotiable. Approach Your Deal With Confidence

Despite dealers’ reluctance to reduce sticker prices, high inventory presents a unique negotiation opportunity for EV buyers. For those equipped with the right market insights and negotiation strategies, the end of 2023 could be the perfect time to secure big savings on an electric vehicle. 

Remember, knowledge is power in this market, and being well-informed can lead to significant savings on your next EV purchase. Keep an eye on the market trends and be ready to make a smart, well-negotiated buy as we step into the new year.

Take this with you: 100% Free Car Buying Cheat Sheet 

Car buying cheat sheet
The Federal Trade Commission’s CARS Rule Will Enforce Transparent Car Pricing

The Federal Trade Commission’s CARS Rule Will Enforce Transparent Car Pricing

The FTC’s Combating Auto Retail Scams Rule (CARS Rule) is a significant stride in bringing transparency and honesty to the car buying and leasing process. This initiative was significantly bolstered by CarEdge, a key player in rallying public support for the rule. In early 2022, CarEdge leveraged the power of community to highlight the need for such regulations and led the call for public action. The result was thousands of public comments in support of the regulation, and ultimately, meaningful progress towards changing car buying for the better. 

Here’s a look at what the new CARS Rule means for car buyers and auto dealers moving forward.

The FTC CARS Rule Enforces Transparent Car Pricing

FTC CARS Rule

The Federal Trade Commission’s new CARS Rule enforces four fundamental principles of truth and transparency in the auto retail industry, which reputable dealers already practice. It’s seen as a significant win for consumers, offering them the same standards of truth and transparency that apply in other transactions. This new regulation takes effect on July 30, 2024.

Here’s how the CARS Rule protects consumers and benefits honest car dealers:

1. The rule prohibits deceptive information about pricing, financing, add-ons, and other ‘material’ information

2. Dealers are required to disclose the offering price – the actual price anyone can pay for the car – excluding only required government fees

3. It is illegal for car dealers to charge for add-ons that don’t provide a benefit to consumers

4. Dealers are now required to get customers’ express, informed consent before charging them for any amount

The rule provides clear legal provisions to protect consumers and adds confidence in their dealings with car dealers. For honest dealers, it levels the playing field by setting uniform standards that all dealers must meet. This enables them to compete fairly based on accurate claims about price, financing, and services.

The rule prohibits misrepresentations about material information and requires dealers to clearly disclose the offering price of a vehicle (the out-the-door price), excluding only mandatory government charges. It also mandates that dealers must inform consumers that they can refuse optional add-ons and must disclose the total payment amount, including any conditions.

Additionally, the rule makes it illegal for dealers to charge for add-ons that don’t benefit the consumer. This is a major win for car buyers following the proliferation of anti-consumer pricing during the car shortages of 2022. Finally, good news is here for those contemplating a car purchase.

Compliance Guidelines Announced

To ensure adherence to the rule, the FTC has laid out guidelines for clear and conspicuous disclosures. These disclosures must be understandable to ordinary consumers and in the same language as the advertisement or communication. The rule also covers practices in languages other than English, ensuring that all consumers receive the same level of protection regardless of the language used.

Read the complete FTC guidance here

CarEdge Will Continue to Advocate For Consumers

Car buying cheat sheet

This is a major win for American consumers. The rule sets a standard for clear and conspicuous disclosures and includes specific recordkeeping requirements for dealers. Now, for the first time, violations could lead to significant penalties. The rule represents a major step forward in protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition among auto dealers.

CarEdge will continue to push for meaningful change, always with the goal of taking the hassle out of car buying. 

Learn more about how CarEdge is changing car buying for the better.

3 Reasons Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Buy a New Car

3 Reasons Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Buy a New Car

Let’s clear the air right off the bat. December is the best time to buy a car if you’re in the market for one. At CarEdge, we’re all about doing what’s smart for your wallet. Even with the best offers in years, and prices slowly falling, it continues to make the most sense to keep driving the vehicle you have. But for those pondering buying now or holding off until 2024, here are three reasons why December is the car buying month you’ve been waiting for.

#1: Inventory Is at a 2-Year High

As we usher in December 2023, new-vehicle inventories have soared to levels not seen since spring 2021, marking a significant turnaround. Cox Automotive reports a robust 70-day supply of vehicles as we step into the month, a stark contrast to the inventory drought experienced just a year ago. New car inventory in America, now at about 2.5 million vehicles, has seen an additional increase of 100,000 in November alone.

This surge represents a gain of 890,000 vehicles compared to the previous year, and the highest new car inventory since the early months of 2021. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, new car inventory levels typically hovered between 3 million and 4 million vehicles in the U.S. The past year’s recovery, particularly evident from summer 2022, marks a pivotal shift in the availability of new vehicles for consumers.

Inventory has reached a 2-year high just as OEMs approach the new year, a time when they’re eager to sell 2023 model year vehicles to make way for incoming 2024s. This inventory rebound is a promising sign for buyers. When inventory rises, deals and incentives are sure to follow. And right on cue, massive deals are here

See the Most and Least Negotiable New Cars Today

#2: Financing Costs Will Rise in 2024

federal funds rate over time

The cost of financing a car purchase hasn’t been this high since the late 1990s. In December, the average new car loan finance rate is 9.96% APR. Used car loan rates are even higher, nearing 14% APR. 

Following the Federal Reserve’s recent decision to maintain the federal funds rate between 5.25 to 5.5 percent, many are wondering if we’re done with rate hikes. This marks the third time in the last four meetings that the Fed has opted for rate stability, despite having raised rates a total of 11 times in this economic cycle to counter high inflation.

However, the question looms: how will new car financing costs change in 2024? The answer lies in the word ‘incentives’. 

As we enter the peak of December’s year-end car sales, automakers are rolling out their best financing offers of the year. But with borrowing costs at near 20-year highs, these attractive incentives from OEM’s captive lenders are likely to vanish come early January. Automakers aren’t offering low APR deals because they want to, they’re doing it because they need to sell cars before the new year arrives.

how to finance a car

Click here for our FREE auto finance cheat sheet!

It’s becoming clear that interest rates will hardly budge in 2024. The median of financial industry’s projections predicts that the Federal Funds Rate at 5.1% at the end of 2024, representing just one 25 basis point interest rate cut for all of next year. 

In other words, December 2023 will feature more low-APR offers than we should expect to see until this time next year. The generous 0% APR to 1.9% APR deals from brands like Mazda and Hyundai are expected to be short-lived. 

In the new year, new car shoppers should expect more 3.9% to 4.9% APR offers, and far fewer zero percent financing incentives.

#3: Year-End Deals Are Here, and They’re Massive

the best time to buy a car is December 2023. year-end sales are here!

This December, car buyers are presented with a rare opportunity: securing low-interest rates through manufacturer incentives, complemented by some exceptionally lucrative cash offers and great lease deals. The increasing cost of borrowing is driving automakers and dealerships to entice buyers with more attractive financing options, even as these rising rates add to the pressure on dealerships to offload their inventory.

December Lease Deals

Automakers don’t mind leasing their new car inventory one bit. When a car is leased, a third-party financer takes ownership of the vehicle, so the car dealer and automaker still get the benefit of ‘selling’ the car.

In December, there are some truly amazing lease offers. Here are a few of the standout lease deals this month:

See ALL of the best lease offers in December

The Return of Zero Percent Financing

Mazda CX-5 year end sales

Leading the charge with zero percent financing on select models are automakers like Mazda, Nissan, and Hyundai. Once a staple in the auto market, 0% APR deals have become a rarity in today’s high-interest rate climate. Not far behind are brands like Kia, Honda, and several Mazda models, offering enticing 0.9% APR deals. Plus, there are’s an abundance of 1.9% APR offers from General Motors, including for the Silverado 1500.

This array of year-end sales provides an unmatched opportunity for car buyers looking for value in a turbulent market. 

Explore all the best year-end car sales here.

If You’re Planning to Buy, the Time Is Now

At CarEdge, December is the month we’ve all been waiting for. The combination of high inventories, appealing year-end deals, and the likelihood of returning to high financing rates creates a unique window for securing a great deal on a new vehicle. 

Ready to approach car buying with behind-the-scenes market insights? Try CarEdge Data for local price and inventory updates in real-time. CarEdge Data equips you with negotiation leverage like never before!

Free Car Buying Help Is Here

Car buying cheat sheet

Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% free car buying cheat sheets today. From negotiating a deal to leasing a car the smart way, it’s all available for instant download. Get your cheat sheets today!

Honda Inventory Is the Highest It’s Been In Years – These Are the Most Negotiable Models

Honda Inventory Is the Highest It’s Been In Years – These Are the Most Negotiable Models

Honda’s new car inventory has risen 38% in just two months. Just in time for the best year-end car sales in ages, an oversupply of both new and used Honda models presents a rare opportunity to negotiate a great deal. We’ll take a look at which new and used Honda cars and SUVs are the most negotiable today, and how you can make a data-powered deal in December.

Snapshot:

  • Unprecedented Honda Supply: New car inventory up 38% in just 2 months – a rare opportunity for mega deals.
  • Used Hondas in Abundance: Rising supply makes now a prime time to buy – if you’re prepared for high interest rates.
  • Hot Picks: CR-V and Accord lead the pack in negotiability, especially with looming 2024 models.
  • Smart Buying Tip: With low APRs on new Hondas, consider new over used for the best financial deal.

Read on for the latest details and money-savings tips.

Year-End Honda Deals Are Here

Honda CRV year end sales

December is always the best time to buy a car. This is especially true for new Honda inventory in 2023. What’s so special about 2023’s year-end car deals? In a high interest environment, the biggest sales of the year are a long time coming. With automakers and dealers eager to sell remaining 2023 inventory, and everyone eyeing an end-of-year bonus, phenomenal deals are everywhere you look. 

Today’s car buyers have options. For those willing to master car buying the smart way, thousands of dollars in savings await. Sure, you could simply browse the best Honda deals this month, or you could negotiate like a boss with the added leverage of Honda inventory numbers. CarEdge is here to help you get there.

Honda Inventory Is Rising in December 2023

Honda Accord year-end sales

First, let’s talk about the inventory trends of new Honda models in the U.S. Back in October, Honda was just beginning to climb out of the inventory lows that had plagued the automaker for a few years. Ever since the pandemic supply chain shortages pummeled Honda and other Asian automakers with record-low inventory levels, the beloved brand has been struggling to return to normal. 

Finally, in late 2023, Honda’s supply of new cars is rising, to the benefit of holiday car shoppers.

By using a behind-the-scenes industry metric, we can see exactly how negotiable new or used cars are today. This metric is called Market Day Supply. Market Day Supply takes into account the existing inventory of a new or used vehicle, and the selling rate over the last 45 days. What you get is the number of days it would take to sell ALL vehicles in stock at current selling rates, assuming no new inventory was added. In simple terms, MDS reflects the level of demand for a car. 

For starters, a ‘healthy’ MDS in the car market is somewhere between 45 and 60 days of supply. Anything below 20 days is a real shortage, and anything above 80 is a serious oversupply. Today, Honda averages a healthy 47 days of supply. For Honda, this is quite high. It’s all relative, though. If this was one of the domestic brands (Ford or Chevrolet, for example), 47 days of supply would be below average. For Honda, it’s higher than normal. 

With the power of understanding market conditions in mind, let’s take a look at how much Honda’s new car inventory has risen in late 2023:

ModelYearOctober Market Day SupplyDecember Market Day Supply
Accord2024N/A (new model)56
Accord20233058
Civic2024N/A (new model)50
Civic20233462
CR-V20242434
CR-V20231299
HR-V20244758
HR-V2023151891
Odyssey2024N/A (new model)45
Odyssey202331120
Passport2024N/A (new model)55
Passport20234530
Pilot2024N/A (new model)45
Pilot20232645
Ridgeline2024N/A (new model)N/A (new model)
Ridgeline20233953

Overall, Honda’s new car inventory has risen from 34 market days of supply in October to 47 days of supply in December, an increase of 38% in just two months.

The jump in supply has been notably greater for some Honda models, such as the CR-V, and Accord. The selling rates of the Accord and HR-V are greatly skewed by a seatbelt recall that has affected 2023 and 2024 models. Dealers can’t sell affected HR-Vs and Accords until a fix is implemented.

However, with 2024 just days away, dealers will be eager to sell 2023 Accords and HR-Vs as soon as a recall fix is installed, making them particularly negotiable in the weeks ahead.

See new Honda listings with the power of local market data

With negotiation know-how, today is the ideal time to use local market data as leverage for negotiating a bargain of a deal.

The Supply of Used Honda Cars Is Climbing Too

Honda’s used cars are popular for several reasons. With great reliability ratings and high driver satisfaction, pre-owned Hondas are always quick to sell. 

In December of 2023, used Honda inventory is rising. What could be behind this unusual trend? The culprit is clear: high interest rates. Today, the average used car loan rate is hovering around 14% APR. More and more car shoppers are opting for new car deals as opposed to forking over extra cash for interest on a used car loan.

Here’s a look at how hard Honda’s used inventory is being hit in today’s high-interest environment.

ModelYearOctober Market Day SupplyDecember Market Day Supply
Accord20224960
Accord20214954
Civic20225060
Civic20215358
CR-V20224560
CR-V20214762
HR-V20225948
HR-V20215254
Odyssey20227479
Odyssey20216162
Passport20225676
Passport20216071
Pilot20225271
Pilot20214859
Ridgeline20225763
Ridgeline20216164

7 out of 8 used Honda models are seeing rising inventory in December. Does that mean that you should buy used instead of new? Not exactly. Honda is offering attractive APR deals in December, ranging from 1.9% to 3.9% APR. You will NOT be able to secure an auto loan rate anywhere near that low for a used car right now. With an average of nearly 14% APR, used car buyers with an excellent credit score will be lucky to qualify for anything under 7%. 

If you can afford the higher sticker price, we recommend giving new Honda cars and SUVs a serious thought in today’s car market. You’ll save thousands in interest over the life of your loan.

See used Honda listings with the power of local market data

Now Is the Perfect Time to Buy

In closing, with Honda’s inventory hitting a peak and used car supply also on the rise, December 2023 is shaping up to be a buyer’s paradise. Whether you’re eyeing a new CR-V or considering a pre-owned Accord, the current market dynamics offer a unique opportunity for negotiation. Armed with the latest data and understanding of market trends, savvy shoppers are in a prime position to secure some of the best deals on Honda models before we ring in 2024. Don’t miss this chance to drive home value like never before!

See local market insights with CarEdge Data, the ultimate car buying toolkit.

Free Car Buying Help Is Here

Car buying cheat sheet

Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% free car buying cheat sheets today. From negotiating a deal to leasing a car the smart way, it’s all available for instant download. Get your cheat sheets today!

These 5 Factors Will Shape the Car Market in 2024

These 5 Factors Will Shape the Car Market in 2024

As we head into 2024, the automotive industry in the U.S. is at a pivotal crossroads. High interest rates, rising inventory, and online sales are just a few of the factors bringing change to car buying. To gain deeper insight into these evolving dynamics, we spoke with Zach Shefska, Co-Founder and CEO of CarEdge, to understand his perspective on where the car market is headed in the coming year. Finally, normalcy may be on the horizon for some of the car market. 

Rising Interest Rates Put Pressure on Buyers and Seller Alike

A key driver in the 2024 car market is the elevated interest rates, now hovering around 10% for new cars and exceeding 14% for used vehicles. This hike in rates is squeezing consumer budgets, making it challenging to find affordable monthly payments. 

On the dealer side, soaring floor plan expenses – up by 200% year-over-year in some cases – are turning once profitable inventory holdings into burdensome financial obligations. One dealer reported that their inventory floorplanning expenses have jumped from $49,000 to $670,000 per month as interest rates soared and manufacturers shipped more cars to their lots. 

CarEdge’s Zach Sheska reminds us that it isn’t just buyers who hurt when interest rates rise. “80% of car buyers finance their purchase, a statistic that is falling as buyers who can afford to pay cash pay in full to avoid interest. However, it’s important to note that smart dealers will be more open to negotiating prices once they encounter a buyer with car market knowledge. They’re feeling the pain of interest too, and are incentivized to move inventory quickly.”

👉 Master car buying strategies with Deal School, our 100% FREE car buying course! 

The Return to Pre-Pandemic Norms

The automotive industry is undergoing a reversal of sorts. In both new and used car markets, we’re seeing a gradual but pronounced ‘return to normalcy’ reminiscent of the pre-pandemic state of affairs. 

New car inventories have made a remarkable recovery from their pandemic lows, soaring to 2.40 million from a mere 0.9 million. This substantial increase in inventory, along with the urgency to address rising floor plan expenses, is compelling dealers to adopt lower pricing and more assertive sales tactics. 

Is it a buyer’s market? If 2024 will be a buyer’s market remains to be seen. The good news is that market forces are headed in the right direction.

OEMs are offering the best sales and incentives in years, aiming to increase sales volumes to achieve yearly and quarterly sales goals. These developments, coupled with heightened operational costs and the reintroduction of cash and finance incentives, are clear indicators of a market that is stabilizing and adjusting to the challenges faced during the chip shortage and production interruptions of the past years.

Used Car Prices Fall As New Car Prices Inch Lower

The average cost of new and used cars remains high, exacerbating the affordability crisis for consumers. Today, the average price of a new car has fallen ever so slightly to $47,936, and used car prices average $26,533. In 2019, the average new car sold for $36,000, and used cars averaged $23,000.

👉 We track new car prices monthly

Historically, the most popular used car segment was vehicles under $20,000 with less than 50,000 miles on the odometer. That’s becoming harder to find these days. Recently, iSeeCars found that in 2023, only 11 percent of the used car market is priced between $15,000 and $20,000. The average listing in this price range has over 63,000 miles. On top of paying a higher sticker price, the average used car loan rate is now at a 20-year high of 14%. 

However, increasing supply and growing dealer incentives are beginning to ease price pressures, offering some relief in a rising rate environment. To get a sense of where used car prices are headed in 2024, we can look at the best leading indicator that we have: wholesale used car price trends. At wholesale car auctions, used car prices have dropped 9% in two months. Some segments, such as used vans, compact sedans, and luxury crossovers, have dropped by 15% or greater. 

used car market in 2024

See this week’s used car market update

Retail used car prices have been slower to fall, but are dropping nonetheless. “What’s changed more profoundly is negotiability in the used car market. CarEdge Coaches say that today, dealers are more willing to negotiate on prices and add-ons today than at any point in 2023. For car buyers willing to put in the work, a much better deal can be earned,” noted Zach.

On the new car front, year-end deals end soon. With rising new car inventory and 2024 models arriving daily, dealers and OEMs alike are eager to sell cars before the end of the year. Hyundai, Mazda, Nissan, and Honda are all offering limited 0% financing for select models. General Motors, Ford, and Kia offer financing at 1.9% APR. With the average APR approaching 9%, anything under 5% APR is a great deal. 

👉 See the best new car deals this month (financing, cash offers, and leases)

The Amazon-Hyundai Equation

A significant headline moving into 2024 is Amazon’s partnership with Hyundai to sell new vehicles through Amazon.com. At first glance, this would seem to indicate a shift towards online retail in the automotive sector. However, challenges remain, particularly in the relationship dynamics between auto manufacturers and car dealers. 

Zach says that a reality check may be in store. “Amazon is about to find out the hard way that for legacy car brands, dealerships have the final say in vehicle pricing and customer service. Amazon’s strategy of partnering directly with OEMs may face hurdles due to the historically complex relationships between these OEMs and their dealers. Dealers will push back, especially if the Amazon partnership targets their profit centers.”

Automotive News outlined the many questions that remain unanswered about the Amazon-Hyundai partnership. Right now, there are more questions than answers.

A Different Approach to Online Car Buying

CarEdge Logo - Blue

Here at CarEdge, we’re taking a different route to ‘fixing’ car buying, one that’s guaranteed to have more immediate impacts. By pre-negotiating fixed pricing directly with car dealers, CarEdge has introduced a new level of transparency never before seen in the new car market.

With nationwide shipping, anyone can buy a new car with fair and transparent pricing, all without the hassle of talking to a dealership salesperson. CarEdge’s team of industry experts takes care of it all. Will Amazon find a way to provide a customer experience that’s equally stress-free and pro-consumer? That remains to be seen.

Learn more about buying with CarEdge.

Electric Vehicles Go Mainstream

Last month, U.S. electric vehicle sales surpassed 1 million annual sales for the first time ever. EV sales now account for 8% of all new cars sold in America. By 2024’s end, we expect that figure to be closer to 12%, and maybe a tad higher. 

As charging infrastructure improves, more car buyers are willing to make the switch. Tesla will continue to dominate with over 50% of EV sales, but the likes of Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and GM will continue to grow in market share. 

EV prices in 2024

One year ago, EV transaction prices averaged 20% higher than the overall new car market. Today that price gap has narrowed to 14%. Automakers and dealers alike make less profit per EV sold than they’re historically used to with ICE vehicle sales. If EV sales continue to grow, that will put pressure on every facet of auto sales. How will the industry respond to narrowing profits? Will dealers and manufacturers simply recoup profits by raising prices in ALL vehicle segments? 2024 will shed light on that, too. 

The Car Market in 2024 Will Bring Surprises

Rising interest rates, evolving market dynamics, and online car buying platforms are reshaping the way we buy cars. The gradual return to pre-pandemic norms and shifting consumer preferences hint at a market ripe with opportunities for informed buyers. While challenges like affordability persist, the increase in manufacturer and dealer incentives are promising signs.

With that said, surprises will introduce wildcards to the market. From economic recession to geopolitics, it’s impossible to know where the world will stand in 12 month’s time. Staying on top of the latest market updates will be key to making smart purchasing decisions in the evolving automotive world of 2024.

Car buying cheat sheet

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