Insights

Most shoppers say they can afford a car payment of about $500 a month; however, the average new-car payment is now $823, and new Cars.com research shows what buyers are doing to close the gap.

Model-year 2027 vehicles see slow changeover while hybrids remain a hot commodity, and shoppers are still on the hunt for affordable vehicles, but the new segment may remain out of budget

Automakers were managing supply on two fronts in August: easing new EVs into a post-credit market and slowing the 2026-to-2027 model handoff to avoid overstock.

Economic factors like inflation and gas prices continue to affect consumer sentiment, while dealer lots are seeing pricier models take center stage.

Midyear check-in: Automotive data highlights affordability, tariff impact, and what’s happening with electric vehicles and hybrids.

Inventory mix shifts pricier while used EVs and hybrids compete for the fastest-moving segment.

Fuel spikes and an affordability crunch redistribute car shoppers’ focus.

Rising gas prices, tight inventory and shifting sale prices are reshaping car shopping. Here’s why electric vehicles, especially used, are gaining attention.

Today’s car shoppers are buying with purpose. As consumers shift spending to essentials, car shoppers classify their next vehicle as a need, driving changes in urgency, pricing decisions and fuel trends.

Tax season creates a consumer-spending tailwind, while the tariff situationship continues to create challenges for car buyers.