U.S. new-vehicle supply inched up 1% month-over-month in May, 13% above a year earlier, Cox Automotive reported. 

Inventory stood at about 2.9 million units at the end of the month, which saw the most robust sales pace of the year so far. That translates to 76 days’ supply. 

The data provider said days’ supply this year has ranged from a high of 96 in a harsh-weather February to last month’s 76. 

“… the broader pattern remains one of steady supply rather than renewed accumulation,” said Executive Analyst Erin Keating. 

The steadiness is in sharp contrast to last year, when the first half was distorted by a sales spike inspired by U.S. trade tariff hikes. 

Most brands experienced supply reductions last month due to healthy sales, the daily retail selling rate up about 7% from April and about 10% year-over-year, Cox reported. 

It pointed out Nissan’s days’ supply fell from 87 in April and May 2025 to 82 after a month of brisk sales. On the other end of the scale, Stellantis brands’ days’ supply stood at 129 for Chrysler, 144 for Ram, 145 for Jeep and 148 for Dodge. 

Cox found that there was still plenty of relatively affordable vehicle supply in May, 56% selling for less than $50,000 and 25% between $30,000 and $40,000. The average listing price, though, clocked in at $49,307, up 1% from a year earlier. 

“The market looks balanced, but it is not broadly comfortable,” Keating said. “Demand is still holding up better than many expected, supported in part by a solid labor market and wealth effects at the higher end, yet elevated financing costs and household budget pressure continue to cap how far that strength can carry. For automakers, the key takeaway is that inventory discipline is working. 

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