KBB: New-Car Prices Up 3.9% in January
The average transaction price for a new light vehicle sold in the U.S. was $36,270, down slightly from December but up 3.9% from the year-ago period.


The discontinuation of the Dart sedan helped average prices for a new Dodge rise 8% in January, according to the latest figures from Kelley Blue Book. Photo courtesy Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
IRVINE, Calif. — The analysts at Kelley Blue Book reported the estimated average transaction price (ATP) for light vehicles in the United States was $36,270 in January 2018. New-car prices have increased by $1,360 (up 3.9%) from January 2017, while dropping $486 (down 1.3%) from last month.
“January was a strong month for transaction prices, rising nearly 4% on average. The shifting sales mix to trucks and SUVs has been particularly extreme lately, and as volume shifts away from cars, the average vehicle price ticks up,” said KBB analyst Tim Fleming. “However, there was a glimmer of hope in the midsize car segment, where prices rose 3% in January, thanks to the newest generations of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. These well-received new models, along with the redesign of the Nissan Altima due later this year, will test how much demand still exists for sedans.”
While American Honda and Volkswagen Group continue to strengthen their average transaction values, other noteworthy manufacturers include General Motors and Fiat Chrysler. General Motors was up 4% year-over-year, with GMC showing the most improvement. GMC’s average climbed 7%, with the redesigned Terrain as its best performer, up 6%. Buick also had a good month, up 5%, as the redesigned Enclave rose 9%.
Fiat Chrysler’s average jumped nearly 4% in January 2018 on a strong mix of RAM trucks and Jeep SUVs. The new Jeep Compass had the best month for Fiat Chrysler, rising 5%, although the Wrangler, which is due for a redesign early in 2018, was down 1%. Dodge rose an impressive 8%, an average that was helped by the discontinuation of the Dart sedan.
More Showroom

Used Market Stabilizes
The Carfax Used Car Index noted a major drop in used-vehicle price increases in July after several months of hikes.
Read More →
California Hybrids Reach State Record
The Golden State still leads the country in electric-vehicle registrations, but much like the rest of the U.S. its hybrid market share is up while full electrics stabilize after a dramatic first-quarter dip.
Read More →
My Mercedes in the U.S.
The German brand debuted its studio dealership concept for the first time in the states in Los Angeles, tapping Americans’ penchant for creative distinctions.
Read More →
Used Sales Hit Summer Drag
The vacation season, combined with high prices, has dented deliveries and added to inventories, though supply is still slim enough to keep listings elevated.
Read More →
California Launches EV Rebate Program
Participating automakers are matching the state's $13.5 million investment in new electric-vehicle rebates scheduled to take effect later this summer.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
The Trade-In Paradox
Retailing older cars with confidence in today’s market is a matter of establishing and following a clear process that can turn greater profit for auto dealers as they aim to meet used-unit hunger.
Read More →
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →
State Follows Federal Warning on Auto Ads
The Massachusetts attorney general cautioned the state’s automotive dealers to be upfront with the consuming public about their vehicle prices or risk punishment.
Read More →
European EV Market Hits Record
Seven out of the top 10 electric vehicles sold so far in 2026 in Europe are by European brands, and automakers are seeing the power train fill up their order books.
Read More →