Fitch Ratings analysts say the escalating cost to purchase and maintain a vehicle has pushed defaults, repossessions and the rate of loans more than 60 days past due to historic levels. +

Kelley Blue Book reports the average transaction price for a U.S.-sold new vehicle exceeded $50,000 for the first time in September despite increased incentive spending. +

Americans spent an average of $49,077 to buy a new vehicle in August as KBB analysts report the biggest year-over-year price hike since 2023, driven by new models and strong EV sales. +

Kelley Blue Book analysts say strong, steady incentive spending kept new vehicle prices in check in July, a month in which EV discounts soared to record highs ahead of significant changes to federal policy. +

Trump administration officials announced the terms of an agreement that would reduce tariffs on vehicles and parts imported from European Union nations to 15%. +

The Cox Automotive/Moody’s Analytics Vehicle Affordability Index decreased by 1.6% in April after hitting a 45-month high in March. Analysts blame tariffs for rising prices and payments despite strong economic indicators. +

Kelley Blue Book reports U.S. average transaction prices increased by 2.5% for new vehicles between March and April while Carfax finds used units enjoyed an unusually large “spring bounce.” +

Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book report March was a good month for new vehicle affordability as sales surged, income growth improved and transaction prices and payments declined. +

Kelley Blue Book reports U.S. sales of new EVs increased by 10% in the first quarter, led in part by 30,000 units moved by General Motors dealers, while sales of market leader Tesla slipped. +

President Donald Trump announced increased tariffs on new vehicles and some parts imported for sale into the United States, effective April 3, a move experts say will raise prices and reduce sales and production. +