How to increase the resale value of your car
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- Kelley Blue Book reports that the average selling price of a new car has reached an all-time high of more than $50,000.
- Rising new car prices are causing consumers to look more closely at the used car market
According to Kelley Blue Book, the average selling price of a new car exceeded $50,000 for the first time in history.
The price of almost everything is going up, and new cars are no exception. But many car buyers definitely encountered sticker shock when the average transaction price of a new car hit $50,080 in September. This year’s ATP (average transaction price) for new cars rose 3.6% year-on-year, marking the largest increase since spring 2023. There are several factors driving up new car prices, including tariffs, the end of the federal EV tax credit, and strong sales in the luxury car segment.
But cars continue to sell even as prices reach all-time highs.
EVs hit record sales this quarter
This year, an influx of shoppers looking to snap up new EVs before the federal tax credit ends has had a big impact on price trends. A record 437,487 EVs were sold in Q3 2025, with an average selling price of $58,124.
Tariffs are also contributing to these price increases. Automakers tried to resist price hikes as they waited to see how things played out. Since the tariffs officially took effect earlier this year, brands have been forced to pass on rising manufacturing costs to consumers. As a result, even the most affordable makes and models are now being sold at such prices that potential buyers consider the second-hand market.
Luxury cars are still on sale
In the luxury car market, car sales don’t seem to be slowing down. In a news release, Cox Automotive Executive Analyst Erin Keating said of her expectations for the future:
“Today’s auto market is driven by wealthy households with access to capital and favorable loan rates, supporting the luxury market,” Keating said. “While there are many affordable options out there, many price-conscious buyers choose to stay on the sidelines or cruise the used car market.”
