Coronavirus Woes Crush Dealers’ Spirits, Yet There’s Hope Monday June 8, 2020 1 min Read Automotive News, June 8, 2020 – To no one’s surprise, COVID-19 restrictions on vehicle sales and the resulting economic toll drove dealer sentiment into abysmal territory during the second quarter, according to the latest Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index survey. But franchised dealers, known for their boundless optimism, are already anticipating a robust recovery during the next 90 days. That positive outlook was somewhat surprising, said Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke. Read more. Related Market Insights Smoke on Cars Auto Loan Rates Trend Higher as Federal Reserve Cuts Rate Policy 4 min Read Market Insights Cox Automotive Auto Market Report: September 16 5 min Read EV Market Monitor – August 2025 5 min Read