Insights

The Federal Reserve made the first cut to rate policy so far in 2025 at the conclusion of its sixth scheduled Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting for the year. The policy statement and commentary from Chair Powell after the meeting emphasized downside employment risks, but details in the decision and updated forecasts reflect divided views …

Wholesale used-vehicle prices (on a mix-, mileage-, and seasonally adjusted basis) increased slightly from August in the first 15 days of September. The mid-month Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index increased from 207.4 to 207.5—a negligible month-over-month change of 0.0%—but was 2.2% higher than the full month of September 2024. The seasonal adjustment reduced the results, …

New-vehicle affordability was stable in August, according to the latest Cox Automotive/Moody’s Analytics Vehicle Affordability Index. “Higher prices and declining incentives reduced buying power in August, but income growth offset the impact to the index,” said Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke. “As a result, new-vehicle affordability did not change month over month.” The estimated …

Cox Automotive’s Auto Market Report video delivers a comprehensive analysis of the current automotive market. Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke leads our effort to translate data and trends into actionable insights. This video covers a wide range of topics, including consumer spending patterns, consumer sentiment, retail vehicle sales, financing rates, supply dynamics, pricing trends and leading …

August marked a second consecutive strong month for the electric vehicle (EV) market, with record sales and rising market share in both the new and used segments. As consumers acted quickly ahead of the Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credit expiration, Cox Automotive saw demand stay strong, inventory tighten, and incentives remain influential. These shifts signal …

ATLANTA, Sept. 16, 2025 – Cox Automotive has announced that effective Jan. 1, 2026, Fleet Services and FleetNet America will become one, unified fleet organization. This strategic alignment represents a major step forward in Cox Automotive’s long-term commitment to the fleet industry. Cox remains steadfast in its mission to keep America moving by connecting roadside, …

This summary features August data on inflation, used-vehicle sales and prices, auto loan access and performance, as well as initial September consumer sentiment. Inflation is picking up from the impact of tariffs, auto loan access declined in August as auto loan performance remained shaky, and September has started with weaker consumer sentiment. Inflation Increased in …

The Cox Automotive Q3 2025 Industry Insights and Sales Forecast Call will be hosted on Thursday, Sept. 25, at 11 a.m. EDT, shortly before the auto industry closes the book on the third quarter. Join us for this event hosted by Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke and the Cox Automotive Economic and Industry Insights team. This 60-minute session …

According to an analysis of Cox Automotive’s vAuto Live Market View data estimates, retail used-vehicle sales in August increased month over month compared to July. A total of 1.55 million used vehicles were sold at retail – from both franchised and independent dealers – during August, up 4.9% month over month and up 8.1% year over year. Days’ …

Used-vehicle inventory levels rose at the start of September, marking the highest point so far in 2025, according to the Cox Automotive analysis of vAuto Live Market View data. 2.21M Total UnsoldUsed Vehiclesas of Sept. 1, 2025 43 Days’ Supply $25,393 Average Listing Price 72,557 Average Mileage Nationwide, dealers – both franchised and independent – had a …