Used Market Improves as New Holds Steady
Improved inventory buoys the former while the new-vehicle market shows balance.

The overall used-vehicle inventory is still considered 'tight,' Cox Automotive says.
IMAGE: Pexels/Sarmad Mughal
U.S. used-vehicle inventory hit a high for the year in July, when new-vehicle inventory was flat as production and sales balanced each other, Cox Automotive said.
There were 2.25 million units between franchised and independent dealers at the end of the month, up 13% month-over-month, though still down 9% year-over-year.
Used-vehicle prices and days’ supply fell in the fuller inventory environment to an average listing price of $27,028 and days supply of 45, which was still down 12% year-over-year. Cox said it’s been shifting since April in the mid- to high 40s.
The average listing price was down 4% year-over-year.
“Used-vehicle inventory has seen an improvement since March, but the overall inventory volume is still considered tight,” said Cox Senior Manager of Economic and Industry Insights Chris Frey.
“Days’ supply, at 45, is on par with levels seen in 2019, but there has been a decline over the last several weeks, owing to increased used retail sales. Usually, we’d expect days’ supply to increase through year-end, but moderating prices and surprising summer demand may keep inventory numbers down.”
Meanwhile, new-vehicle inventory ended July at 1.96 million units, down just slightly month-over-month but 71% higher year-over-year. Days’ supply stood at 56, the same as June and 39% higher year-over-year. That’s nearly at the level the industry considers normal – 60 days.
The average listing price for new models was a hair over $47,000, holding steady with the level seen since April.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom

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 →
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →