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New Study: One in Four Car Buyers Is Using AI to Get a Better Deal
Artificial intelligence is changing the way Americans buy cars, and it’s a transition that is happening quickly. In the first-ever survey of its kind, CarEdge asked 500 car shoppers if they’re using AI tools like ChatGPT to research, compare, and negotiate during the car buying process.
The results confirm a major shift is underway. One in four car buyers in 2025 is already using AI tools to gain an edge, and future buyers are even more likely to embrace these technologies.
Car buyers are finding AI to be a valuable tool. Among those who used tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google Gemini, and others, 88% said it was helpful. AI is quickly becoming a trusted co-pilot for car buyers.
This report offers the first data-backed look at how AI tools are reshaping the car buying experience. For the automotive industry, the message is clear: buyers are more empowered than ever — and they’re bringing AI to the dealership.
Key Findings: Car Buying Is Changing Quickly
The 2025 CarEdge AI & Car Buying Survey reveals a clear and growing trend: AI tools are quickly becoming part of the car buying process for a significant portion of consumers. Here are the standout findings:
1 in 4 Car Buyers Use AI
25% of car buyers in 2025 say they used or plan to use AI tools like ChatGPT during the shopping or buying process. This contrasts with a recent survey by Elon University that found 52% of Americans now use AI large language models. While signs point towards increased adoption of AI tools, the CarEdge survey found that most car buyers are still in the early stages of integrating these tools into high-stakes decisions like vehicle purchases. This suggests there’s still significant room for growth in AI adoption amongst car buyers.
AI Use Is Accelerating
Among those who haven’t bought a car yet this year, 40% say they are using or plan to use AI tools during their search or deal-making. This is nearly 3x higher than the 14% seen among those who already bought a car earlier in the year.
AI Tools Deliver Results
Among those who used AI:
- 88% say the tools were helpful
- 32% found them very helpful
- 60% used them “a lot” during the process
The AI Holdouts: Drivers Who Lease
Of the respondents who had already leased a car in 2025, none reported using any AI tools.
The AI-Adopting Buyer: Who’s Using It, and How?
AI adoption among car buyers is still in its early stages, but clear trends are beginning to emerge.
Among Buyers Who Already Purchased in 2025:
Just 14% of those who already bought a vehicle this year used AI tools during the process. Adoption rates were nearly identical across new and used buyers, with 14% in each group saying they used AI tools.
Among Future Car Buyers:
The numbers jump significantly when looking at those who haven’t yet bought in 2025. Among this group — who represent 39% of total respondents — 40% say they either already use or plan to use AI tools during their car search and buying process.
That’s more than triple the current usage rate among recent buyers, suggesting AI adoption is accelerating as awareness grows and tools become easier to use.
This group also appears to be more proactive: 60% of those who used AI tools during their buying journey said they used them “a lot,” while 40% used them only occasionally.
What Car Buyers Are Using AI Tools For
AI tools are quickly becoming essential research companions for car shoppers looking to make more informed, confident decisions. After all, why go it alone when a wealth of automotive knowledge powered by large language models (LLMs) is right in your pocket?
Among buyers who used AI tools during their car purchase or lease process, here’s how they put them to work:
88% — Researching Vehicles
The most common use by far, AI tools helped buyers learn about different models, trims, features, and reliability. For many, it was like having an always-available expert to explain the pros and cons of their options.
64% — Comparing Prices and Market Values
Buyers used AI to better understand fair pricing, from invoice pricing to out-the-door.
44% — Learning Negotiation Strategies
Nearly half of AI users leaned on these tools to prepare for conversations with salespeople. Whether role-playing negotiation scenarios or asking how to spot add-on fees, this group used AI to level the playing field at the dealership.
11% — Exploring Finance and Lease Options
A much smaller portion of buyers used these tools to become familiar with leasing vs. financing, how to calculate payments, and similar queries.
Why It Matters
Car buying has always been tilted in favor of the dealership. Information asymmetry — what the dealer knows versus what the customer knows — has long been the source of consumer frustration, confusion, and overpayment.
That dynamic is beginning to shift.
This survey confirms what many in the industry are only starting to realize: AI is giving car buyers the upper hand. Tools like ChatGPT are helping consumers cut through the noise, ask smarter questions, and avoid common dealership traps. Instead of relying on guesswork or scattered advice, buyers are turning to AI for fast, personalized guidance at every step.
But one auto industry veteran has words of caution for buyers relying heavily on AI tools.
“It’s both surprising and a little scary to see how quickly people are turning to AI to guide such a major financial decision,” said Ray Shefska, Co-Founder of CarEdge. “While tools like ChatGPT can be powerful, they’re only as good as the data behind them. AI should complement your research, not replace your own critical thinking.”
That perspective underscores the real takeaway of this report: AI works best when it’s used thoughtfully as a tool, not as a crutch. In an age where automation raises fears of job loss or decision-making without human oversight, this survey offers a more optimistic view — one where technology helps everyday consumers make smarter choices. Used wisely, AI can help level the playing field and bring more transparency and fairness to the car buying experience.
Methodology
This survey was conducted by CarEdge between June 19 and June 24, 2025. A total of 500 U.S. respondents participated, recruited through the CarEdge email newsletter and social media channels. Questions were tailored based on buying status to better understand how and when AI tools were used in the car shopping process.
About CarEdge
Founded in 2019 by father-and-son team Ray and Zach Shefska, CarEdge is a leading platform dedicated to empowering car shoppers with free expert advice, in-depth market insights, and tools to navigate every step of the car-buying journey. From researching vehicles to negotiating deals, CarEdge helps consumers save money, time, and hassle. Join the hundreds of thousands of happy consumers who have used CarEdge to buy their car with confidence.
With trusted resources like the CarEdge Research Center, fair pricing tools, and hundreds of guides on YouTube, CarEdge is redefining transparency and fairness in the automotive industry.
Follow us on YouTube, TikTok, X, Facebook, and Instagram for actionable car-buying tips and market insights. Join the CarEdge Community to connect with car buyers and sellers nationwide.
Contact for Media Inquiries:
[email protected] | www.CarEdge.com
When Do New Car Models Come Out? 2025 Is Different
If you’re car shopping in 2025, timing your purchase can save you thousands. But when exactly do new car models hit the lot? Whether you’re looking for the latest redesign or trying to score a deal on last year’s model, knowing when new model years arrive is key.
Let’s break down what you need to know in 2025.
Quick Answer: When Do New Car Models Come Out?
Most new car models arrive between July and October. Automakers often start announcing new models in the spring, but actual inventory availability ramps up closer to Labor Day.
However, 2025 is shaping up differently. Due to ongoing pricing uncertainty tied to U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles and components, automakers are delaying 2026 model rollouts more than usual. They’re waiting to decide if they need to raise prices, and if so, by how much.
Typical New Model Rollout Timeline
Here’s what the cycle usually looks like in a normal year:
| Month | What Happens |
| March–May | Automakers announce new models and redesigns |
| June–August | Early shipments of select models begin |
| September–October | Most new models arrive on lots |
| November–December | Outgoing model year clearance ramps up |
In most years, Labor Day weekend marks the transition point, with dealers juggling clearance deals on remaining inventory and early shipments of the next model year.
What’s Different in 2025?
In a word: uncertainty.
Thanks to new tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, automakers are facing higher costs — but they’re not sure how much of that to pass on to consumers. Instead of rushing to release 2026 models, many brands are delaying their rollouts as long as possible. This gives them time to assess:
- Consumer demand
- Tariff impacts
- Competitor pricing
That means in 2025, you’re likely to see 2026 models arrive later than usual, especially for import-heavy brands and luxury vehicles.
Why it matters: If you’re waiting for a 2026 redesign, be prepared for a later release date than in past years — and a possible price hike.
Why Buyers Should Pay Attention
Understanding new model release timing can help you:
Score a Deal on the Outgoing Model Year — When new models arrive, dealers are motivated to clear out last year’s inventory. That’s when you’ll find end-of-model-year discounts, often paired with special financing or cash bonuses.
Avoid Buying Right Before a Major Redesign — If a model is about to be refreshed or redesigned, buying the current version could mean more depreciation. (CarEdge depreciation rankings often show big dips for just-redesigned models.)
Plan Ahead for Limited Inventory — If you’re targeting a specific trim or color of a new model, knowing when it will actually arrive helps you get ahead of low inventory or long waitlists.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes — some brands release models earlier or on non-traditional schedules. For example:
- Tesla follows its own release rhythm entirely
- Subaru and Mazda sometimes launch new model years in early spring
- Luxury brands may prioritize global launch windows over traditional timelines
Always check with your local dealer or use a tool like CarEdge Car Search to track what’s in stock near you.
Bottom Line
In most years, new car models roll out between July and October, with peak availability around Labor Day. But in 2025, the timeline is shifting. Thanks to tariff-driven pricing uncertainty, many 2026 models will arrive later than usual, as automakers wait to see how much prices will rise.
If you’re eyeing a new car, keep this in mind:
- Looking for a deal? Shop outgoing 2025 models between August and December. This is when dealers are under pressure to clear inventory (especially if the next model year hasn’t arrived yet.)
- Waiting for a redesign? Expect delays and plan for potential price hikes on 2026 models.
Want to know which outgoing models are the most negotiable?
Use CarEdge Pro to identify the vehicles with the highest inventory levels and greatest negotiability in your area. These are the cars most likely to be discounted (often with some negotiation effort). CarEdge Pro is your toolkit to know exactly where the leverage is.
FAQ: New Car Model Release Timing
Q: When do new car models typically come out?
A: Most new car models are released between July and October, with the highest volume arriving around Labor Day. Automakers often announce new models in the spring, but dealer inventory builds closer to late summer and early fall.
Q: Why are 2026 models arriving later in 2025?
A: In 2025, automakers are delaying 2026 model rollouts due to uncertainty around U.S. auto tariffs. They’re waiting to decide whether to raise prices — and by how much — which is pushing back launch timelines.
Q: How can I get a good deal on the outgoing model year?
A: To find the best deals on outgoing models, shop between August and December when dealers are clearing 2025 inventory. Use tools like CarEdge Pro to spot the most negotiable cars on the lot.
Q: Should I wait for the new model or buy now?
A: If the model you want is getting a redesign, waiting might be worth it — but expect delays and higher prices for 2026 models. If you’re flexible, buying the current model year during clearance season could save you thousands.
Want the best deal without the stress?
Let a CarEdge Concierge do the hard work. From finding the right car to negotiating the price, CarEdge makes car buying easy.
Save time. Save money. Get the deal you deserve.
Who Has the Best Car Deals Heading Into July? What to Know Before July 4th Sales
If you’re wondering who will have the best car deals in July, you’re at the right spot. With prices still high and interest rates holding firm, finding a good deal can feel like searching for fireworks in the daytime. But here’s the good news: there are some great deals out there – you just need to know where to look.
Let’s break it all down.
The Car Market Right Now: High Prices, Falling Inventory
New Car Market Update
After a spring rush leading up to the U.S. import tariffs, new car inventory has started to shrink again. Nationwide, dealers have about 2.5 million new cars, which translates to 70 days of supply according to the most recent available data from May.
No surprise here: cars are still outrageously expensive. The average new car price rose to $48,883 in May, up 3.2% year over year. Most automakers are not raising prices across the board yet, but we’ve seen Subaru and Toyota announce price hikes over the past month. More are likely on the way.
Inventory of next-model-year vehicles is unusually low. In fact, only 3% of the market consists of 2026 models in June, with most 2026 inventory coming from Honda, GMC, and Cadillac. That means leftover 2024s and 2025s are ripe for negotiation.
The sad truth is that the main reason so few 2026s are on dealership lots today is that automakers are debating whether to hike prices. We’ll soon know where 2026 prices are headed. In the meantime, here are 2026 models we’re looking forward to.
👉 We’ve gathered all of the best July car sales for you here, including Independence Day specials.
Used Car Market Update
Used car prices are still high, but gradually falling. The average listing price is now $25,540, and older vehicles (5+ years), EVs, and compact crossovers are seeing the largest drops.
Used car APR remains brutally high, averaging 14%, and inventory under $15,000 is scarce. But if you’re buying with cash or financing with strong credit, it’s a fair time to buy — especially if you’re looking for value-priced older models.
We track used car prices weekly here.
These Brands Have the Best New Car Incentives Right Now
Here’s the insider secret: the best car deals in July 2025 will come from automakers with too much inventory. These brands have far more vehicles on dealer lots than average — and that means pressure to sell, especially as July 4th car sales kick off.
Compare this to the market average of 70 days of supply:
- Jaguar – 214% above average
- Audi – 80% above average
- Land Rover – 63% above average
- Hyundai – 60% above average
- Ram – 56% above average
- Mazda – 53% above average
- Mitsubishi, Jeep, Infiniti, MINI, and Mercedes-Benz – also well above average
For these brands, 2025 models are especially negotiable, and we’re already seeing generous 0% to 1.9% APR incentives on dozens of models. Many of these automakers will also be among the first to discount 2025 models as 2026 vehicles begin trickling in.
Pro Tip: Check your local listings for leftover 2024 models — about 187,000 are still on sale nationwide, and dealers are under pressure to move them fast.
These Brands Are the Toughest to Negotiate
On the flip side, automakers with the tightest inventory have no reason to cut deals. In July 2025, that includes:
Translation? Fewer incentives, fewer choices, and more dealer markups. If you’re buying from these brands, you’ll need to be flexible. Whether it’s trim level, color, or even which dealership you’re willing to work with, be willing to work harder for deals (or have us negotiate for you).
What to Expect from July 4th Car Sales
Independence Day weekend is always one of the biggest car shopping moments of the year. This summer, with dealers sitting on excess 2024 and 2025 inventory and new models arriving any day now, shoppers can expect:
- Solid lease offers and low APR deals from high-inventory brands
- Aggressive discounts on remaining 2024 models (especially trucks and SUVs)
- Fierce competition among dealers looking to hit July sales targets
Want to skip the guesswork? We’re tracking every 0% APR deal and zero-down lease this month — so check out CarEdge Best Deals to see what’s out there.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Car in July 2025
Here’s what today’s smart shoppers are doing:
- Shop brands with too much inventory. That’s where the deals are.
- Negotiate on leftover 2024s and 2025s — not fresh 2026 inventory.
- Don’t fall for dealer markups (sadly, they’re still out there for specialty cars and any with slim inventory).
- Use the best car search tools to find local deals with ease.
- Be willing to walk away — the buyer still holds power in many segments.
You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
Whether you want someone to take the wheel for you, or just need the tools to negotiate your own deal, CarEdge can help.
✅ Want us to do it all for you?
Let a CarEdge expert handle your deal with our Car Buying Service.
🔍 Prefer to DIY?
Use CarEdge Pro to get instant access to local pricing, inventory levels, and other real-time data.
Skip the Dealership: The Easiest Ways to Buy a Car
Car buying doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, these days it’s easier than ever, but only if you know where to look.
From expert-led buying services to skipping the dealership altogether, there are now several ways to get behind the wheel without wasting time, overpaying, or dealing with pushy salespeople. Here’s how smart shoppers are simplifying the car buying process this year.
1. Use a Car Buying Service
Imagine this: you tell an expert what kind of car or truck you’re looking for, and they handle everything. From finding the perfect car to negotiating the price, wouldn’t it be great if a pro would handle it all for you?
That’s exactly what car buying services like CarEdge Concierge do. The CarEdge team works for you, not the dealership. Whether you’ve already found the car you want or need help narrowing it down, CarEdge experts will negotiate on your behalf and help you avoid overpriced add-ons and dealer markups.
Other services, like those from Costco, Navy Federal, and others, claim to do something similar. However, it’s important to understand that most of them simply refer you to a participating dealer with pre-negotiated pricing. With CarEdge Concierge, we stay in the driver’s seat until the deal is done, and you’re more than happy with the result.
👉 See if CarEdge Concierge is right for you
2. Buy Direct-to-Consumer (If You Can)
Some automakers have removed dealerships from the equation entirely.
If you’re shopping for an electric vehicle, brands like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid let you buy or order directly from their website. That means no dealership pressure, no haggling, and a much more transparent buying experience. The downside is that service centers are fewer and farther between without an extensive network of dealerships.
With direct-to-consumer car buying, the price you see is usually the price you pay. It’s not perfect (wait times and service coverage can vary), but it’s far less stressful than the traditional dealership grind.
As of now, no traditional automakers offer true direct-to-consumer sales. But if this model works for you, it’s one of the smoothest paths to car ownership.
3. Only Shop the Deals
Prefer to do it yourself? You don’t have to start from scratch.
Instead of scrolling endlessly through listings, focus your search on the best deals available. Tools like CarEdge Pro and the Best Car Deals Hub make it easy to find low-APR financing offers, discounted leases, and cash-back incentives. You’ll save time, and likely a lot of money too.
Just remember: most manufacturer incentives have fine print, and you’ll typically need strong credit to qualify.
🔍 Browse vehicles with Car Search to filter by negotiability, price fairness, and available deals in your area.
💡 Use CarEdge Pro to compare pricing trends, market supply, and local offers.
Which Easy Car Buying Method Is Best for You?
| Goal | Best Option |
| I want a pro to handle everything | Car buying services like CarEdge and Costco |
| I’m buying an EV and want to skip the dealer | Buy direct from Tesla, Rivian, or Lucid |
| I’m doing it myself but want the best deal | CarEdge Pro and the Best Deals Hub to find car deals |
Final Thoughts
Car buying doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Today’s car buyers benefit from tools and services that weren’t around just a few years ago. Whether you go with a car buying service, direct-to-consumer sales, or DIY with data at your side, the easiest way to buy a car is the one that works best for you and your budget.
Want to learn how to buy a car the right way? Our free video series, Deal School, is the perfect place to start. Check out CarEdge on YouTube for hundreds of expert-led car buying lessons.
About CarEdge
CarEdge is a trusted resource for car buyers, offering data-backed insights, negotiation tools, and expert guidance to help consumers save time and money. Since 2019, CarEdge has helped hundreds of thousands of drivers navigate the car-buying process with confidence. Learn more at CarEdge.com.
Best July 4th Truck Deals in 2025: 0% Financing and Cash Offers
July 4th truck deals are rolling in, and this year’s discounts are better than expected. Automakers are offering a mix of low-APR financing, lease specials, and cash-back offers to move 2024 and 2025 pickup trucks before the flood of 2026 models arrives. With high interest rates, falling resale values, and price hikes on the horizon, now is a smart time to save on a new pickup.
Most of these deals are available through July 7, 2025, but we’ve also included a few standout offers that expire at the end of June. As more automakers announce Independence Day promotions, we’ll keep this guide updated with the latest truck deals worth checking out.
July 4th Truck Deals
Looking to buy a pickup truck in July 2025? These offers are now live, and will last well into the month. The next time we’ll see truck specials this good will be Labor Day, so take a test drive if you see a deal you like. Note that all offers are subject to approval and may not be available in all markets.
2025 Ram 1500
Finance the 2025 Ram 1500 with 1.9% APR for 72 months. See details from Ram.
Other offers: Current lessees can qualify for $5,000 total cash allowance on select trucks.
Lease the 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab from $419/month for 42 months with $4,529 down (conquest lease offer for current owners and lessees of Ford and GM trucks).
See Ram truck listings with local pricing insights
2025 GMC Sierra 1500
Finance 2025 Sierra 1500 models with the TurboMax engine at 0% APR for 36 months (GMC or Buick loyalty lease). See details from GMC.
Other offers: $6,250 total cash allowance on the 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 models with the 5.3L ECOTEC3 V8 engine.
See GMC Sierra 1500 listings with local pricing insights
2025 Toyota Tundra
Finance the 2025 Toyota Tundra in select markets with 1.99% APR for 72 months. See offer details.
Other offers: $3,000 customer cash, and $1,000 in trade-in assistance.
See Toyota Tundra listings with local pricing insights
2025 Ford F-150
Finance the 2025 F-150 XLT Hybrid with 5.9% APR for 72 months. See offer details.
Other offers: Employee Pricing offer continues into July, but it’s not always the best deal.
See F-150 listings in your area with market insights
2025 Honda Ridgeline
Finance the 2025 Honda Ridgeline with 2.9% APR for 60 months. See offer details.
Other offers: $1,500 cash discount
Browse Honda listings with local pricing insights
Shop Smart This July
If you’re eyeing a 2025 pickup, don’t wait too long. Prices on 2026 trucks are already trending higher, and remaining 2025 inventory is moving fast.
We’ll keep this guide updated as new truck deals roll in. If you see a pickup you like at a price that works for your budget, now’s the time to lock it in.
Pro Tip: Don’t go it alone. Let your personal CarEdge Concierge negotiate your deal. Whether you plan to buy new or used, lease or purchase, we can negotiate hundreds to even thousands of dollars off your out-the-door price. Shop with CarEdge on your side!
