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The Used Car Market Is Collapsing: December Presents a Rare Opportunity For Buyers
If you’ve been holding off on a used car purchase due to record high used car prices, December brings good news for buyers. So far, market declines have been largely confined to wholesale auctions. Will wholesale price drops finally translate to lower sticker prices? Let’s dive in and talk about why December 2023 is different.
Prices Falling Quickly At Wholesale Auctions
For much of 2023, there has been an unusually wide gap between auto auction price trends and the listing prices we’ve seen on dealer lots. However, with changes accelerating over the past month, it looks like retail used car prices are finally about to take a dive.
In November alone, used car prices were down -5.47% at wholesale auctions, according to Black Book weekly updates. The magnitude of this downward trend isn’t normal. In fact, prices are dropping at 5x to 6x the normal rate for some vehicle segments.
Retail days-to-turn, a metric indicating how long it takes for used cars to sell, has reached a 5-year high at 55 days. This statistic suggests that used cars are staying longer on dealership lots, giving buyers more options and potentially putting pressure on dealers to make sales.
The stage is set for a buyer’s market in the used car industry, offering consumers greater choice and increased bargaining power.
Segment-Specific Price Trends
Just how quickly are used car prices dropping? A closer look at the last month’s wholesale prices reveals shocking trends. The decline in used car prices is not uniform across all segments. Here’s how some of the most volatile used car segments fared in November:
Compact Vans: Down 13.98%
Full-size Trucks: Down 6.49%
Compact Cars: Down 6.98%
Full-size Luxury SUVs: Down 5.11%
Remember, these price drops occurred in only four weeks. Normally, price changes are measured in the tenths of a percentage point. These significant price changes indicate that certain vehicle categories are experiencing rapid depreciation. With negotiation know-how, car buyers have more leverage than at any other point in 2023.
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New Car Incentives Impacting the Used Car Market
The allure of new car incentives is pulling buyers away from used car lots. As more buyers opt for new cars, the used car market is experiencing increasing downward pressure on prices. This trend indicates that used car buyers are very likely to see better deals in December. However, a used car purchase may not make sense for everyone. Let’s talk about why.
At a time when the average used car loan rate is at 14% APR, shoppers are second guessing a used car purchase with good reason. But that doesn’t mean you must hold off on buying altogether. Consider this: the best new car offers feature low and even zero percent financing offers. Our CarEdge Coaches are recommending that all used car shoppers consider low APR new car deals before committing to high interest used car loans.
👉 See the best year-end car sales today.
For more on how new car deals will impact used car prices, check out our deep dive.
Dealership Financing Challenges
Car dealers don’t typically own their lot inventory outright. They actually finance their inventory when they buy cars at the auction, and pay monthly ‘floorplanning costs’. With interest rates at 20-year highs, car dealers are feeling the pain like the rest of us. What does it all mean for used car buyers? Buyers should know that dealers are motivated to sell their inventory sooner rather than later, even if they try to act like they don’t need to. You certainly have negotiating power, especially in December of 2023.
Words of Wisdom from Ray Shefska, CarEdge Co-Founder
CarEdge’s Ray Shefska offers some valuable insights into the changing landscape of the used car market:
“We’re finally seeing a real correction in wholesale used car prices. My expectation is that we’ll soon see this translate to retail prices too. But even with stubbornly high dealership prices, you have MUCH more negotiating power today after a month of steep declines at the wholesale auctions that they buy cars from. Don’t hesitate to show the car salesperson that you’re aware of the recent used car price trends. Heck, print out the latest numbers if you have to. Not all car dealers will be willing to budge, but the smart ones will. You can always shop elsewhere.”
Expect Highly Negotiable Prices in December 2023
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a used car, December 2023 may be the ideal time to make a purchase. High interest rates, increased inventory, slow used car sales, and enticing new car incentives have given used car dealers multiple reasons to lower their prices or at least display a willingness to negotiate. Interestingly, these same reasons are enticing more buyers to the new car market, especially with low APR offers featuring unmatched savings.
👉 If you’re in the market for a used car, bookmark this to stay on top of the latest: Used Car Price Trends (Updated Weekly)
Last month, the average used car selling price was $26,752. With what we’re seeing in today’s market, we wouldn’t be surprised if that figure is 10% less by the time we see the December data. December is the best time to buy a car in ages, for both new and used shoppers alike.
Here’s our car market forecast for 2024. We don’t expect the great deals to last into the new year!
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The Safest New Cars, Trucks and SUVs For 2024
Safety should always be a top priority when car shopping. Fortunately, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) takes the guesswork out of vehicle safety ratings with their extensive crash testing. As IIHS standards evolve, more models are achieving the coveted Top Safety Pick+ status, reflecting car manufacturers’ commitment to designing vehicles that excel in crash tests. Plus, we’ve also included links to Consumer Reports reviews for each model. These are the safest new cars, trucks, and SUVs for 2024.
The Safest Sedans
According to the most recent IIHS safety tests, these are the safest cars you can buy today. All of the following sedans earned the highest safety rating of Top Safety Pick+ in testing conducted in 2023 for 2023-2024 model year vehicles.
Subaru Impreza
Starting MSRP: $22,995
CR Overall Score: In Testing
Why it’s great: This time-tested compact car is known for standard all-wheel drive, and is a big hit in the car tuning scene. For 2024, the redesigned Impreza is available exclusively as a hatchback for the first time ever.
Flaws and Shortcomings: The Impreza is perfect for small car lovers, and there are fewer and fewer of those these days. It doesn’t get the great fuel economy that you’d expect from a compact car. Due to the standard AWD, the Impreza averages 29 miles per gallon in combined driving.
Browse Impreza listings with the power of local market data.
Honda Accord
Starting MSRP: $27,895
CR Overall Score: 80
Why it’s great: The Accord has been a best seller for decades, but the recent refresh has taken this sedan to a whole new level. With better styling both inside and out, the 2024 Accord is simply great.
Flaws and Shortcomings: The Accord’s chief competition has always been the Toyota Camry. The Camry’s MSRP starts at $1,400 less than the Accord. If you’re pinching pennies, the Camry may sway you with savings.
Browse Accord listings with the power of local market data.
Subaru Outback
Starting MSRP: $28,895
CR Overall Score: 79
Why it’s great: For those who live in colder climates, the Outback is an all-around great choice. All-wheel drive aside, the Outback offers a spacious cabin, modern tech, and improved looks. That’s all on top of 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
Flaws and Shortcomings: If fuel economy (and emissions) is a factor in your car buying decision making, the Outback loses its appeal with just 28 miles per gallon in combined driving. Inventory is slim as is expected from Subaru, so finding a certain trim and color combo may be difficult.
Browse Outback listings with the power of local market data.
Toyota Prius
Starting MSRP: $27,650
CR Overall Score: 80
Why it’s great: The 2024-2024 Toyota Prius is a gamechanger. The image above speaks for itself. With phenomenal styling and an EPA-rated 57 miles per gallon, the reimagined Prius has come a very long way over the past two decades.
Flaws and Shortcomings: Today’s drivers are all too accustomed to crossovers and SUVs. The Prius is a small hatchback, and lacks the interior space and all-terrain capabilities of its larger cousins.
Browse Prius listings with the power of local market data.
Toyota Camry
Starting MSRP: $26,420
CR Overall Score: 82
Why it’s great: Drivers love the Toyota Camry for its exceptional reliability and comfortable ride, making it a dependable and enjoyable car for everyday use. Its reputation for longevity, practicality, and affordability has endeared it to a wide range of drivers.
Flaws and Shortcomings: The Toyota Camry has a conservative design and a dated infotainment system, which are some of its flaws. Its base engine offers great fuel economy, but unexciting performance. In 2025, the Camry will be sold strictly as a hybrid.
Browse Camry listings with the power of local market data.
Hyundai IONIQ 6
Starting MSRP: $42,450
CR Overall Score: 81
Why it’s great: The IONIQ 6 is the fastest-charging electric car on sale today for under $50,000. Hyundai’s eGMP electric platform enables the IONIQ 6 to add 250 miles of range in 18 minutes in ideal conditions.
Flaws and Shortcomings: There’s really only one big flaw, unless you’re not a fan of the styling. The IONIQ 6 does not qualify for the federal EV tax credit in the United States. The IONIQ 6’s main competitor, the Tesla Model 3, does qualify.
Browse IONIQ 6 listings with the power of local market data.
See the complete list of Top Safety Pick+ rated sedans at Consumer Reports.
The Safest SUVs
According to the most recent IIHS safety tests, these are the safest SUVs you can buy today. All of the following models earned the highest safety rating of Top Safety Pick+ in testing conducted in 2023, for 2023-2024 model year vehicles.
All of the following SUV models earned a perfect score in each category of the IIHS’ safety testing.
Kia Telluride
Starting MSRP: $35,990
CR Overall Score: 87
Why it’s great: The Kia Telluride, introduced in 2020, has gained popularity in the highly competitive SUV market for several reasons. It offers a spacious interior, appealing design, advanced technology features, all at a competitive price point. Despite its size, the Telluride drives like a smaller crossover, providing easy maneuverability in various driving conditions.
Flaws and Shortcomings: Compromises come at a cost. The Telluride doesn’t offer the spaciousness of a full-size SUV, nor the fuel economy of a compact SUV, but it’s a happy middle ground for most family haulers.
Browse Telluride listings with the power of local market data.
Lexus RX
Starting MSRP: $49,950
CR Overall Score: 81
Why it’s great: The recently redesigned RX delivers a relaxed ride, a luxury cabin for the price, and great reliability.
Flaws and Shortcomings: The Lexus RX makes a lot more sense closer to its base MSRP. Once you’re looking at higher trim RX options, it becomes tougher to justify paying $60,000+ for what is essentially a premium Toyota.
Browse Lexus RX listings with the power of local market data.
Lexus NX
Starting MSRP: $40,605
CR Overall Score: 77
Why it’s great: Safety, reliability, and affordable luxury characterize the popularity of the Lexus NX. A highly-acclaimed plug-in hybrid option is now available for those wanting to test the waters before committing to an EV.
Flaws and Shortcomings: This is a relatively compact SUV. If you’re looking for an abundance of passenger and cargo volume, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
Browse Lexus NX listings with the power of local market data.
Lexus UX
Starting MSRP: $36,690
CR Overall Score: 75
Why it’s great: The UX is Lexus’ entry-level luxury compact SUV. It’s fuel efficient, reliable, and safe, and starts well under $40,000. The UX comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that’s good for 42 miles per gallon in combined driving.
Flaws and Shortcomings: Reviewers agree that the UX is noticeably small, and lacks easy-to-use infotainment.
Browse Lexus UX listings with the power of local market data.
Subaru Ascent
Starting MSRP: $34,195
CR Overall Score: 75
Why it’s great: Subaru’s three-row SUV, the Ascent, boasts impressive all-around performance. Its smooth ride, practical interior, and seamless power delivery have been key factors contributing to its success.
Flaws and Shortcomings: The Ascent really only has two big shortcomings. It drives like a large SUV, and therefore lacks agility. More importantly, it doesn’t score well in the fuel efficiency department with an EPA-rated 22 miles per gallon.
Browse Subaru Ascent listings with the power of local market data.
Subaru Solterra
Starting MSRP: $44,995
CR Overall Score: 75
Why it’s great: Arriving with standard all-wheel drive, the Solterra was engineered in partnership with Toyota. Subaru’s first EV is essentially an electric Crosstrek with a new name.
Flaws and Shortcomings: Charging speed. Range is below average at 227 miles on a charge, but charging is where the Solterra seriously falls short. Charging peaks at 100 kilowatt speeds, meaning that adding 150 miles of driving range will take about an hour at a ‘fast’ charger. Competitors like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model Y can do the same in well under 30 minutes. The Hyundai and Kia cost the same as the Solterra, and offer much more if you can do without the Subaru brand.
Browse Subaru Solterra listings with the power of local market data.
See the complete list of Top Safety Pick+ rated SUVs at Consumer Reports.
The Safest Pickup Trucks
Across the board, pickup trucks don’t score as highly on IIHS safety tests. However, these two trucks bucked the trend to earn the honors of Top Safety Pick+ in 2023 testing.
Rivian R1T
Starting MSRP: $73,000
CR Overall Score: 63
Why it’s great: There are few electric trucks on sale as we head into 2024. The Rivian R1T stands out from the legacy OEM competitors with bold, futuristic styling and supreme off road capability.
Flaws and Shortcomings: If you don’t live near a Rivian service center, getting any needed maintenance completed will be a hassle. In order to qualify for the U.S. federal tax credit, the vehicle price must not exceed $80,000. That’s tough to do with the Rivian R1T.
Learn more about the Rivian R1T at Rivian.com.
Toyota Tundra
Starting MSRP: $39,965
CR Overall Score: 61
Why it’s great: The Tundra is the most affordable pickup truck with great reliability ratings. It’s also known for excellent reliability.
Flaws and Shortcomings: While the base MSRP is around $40,000, it’s very difficult to find one on Toyota dealer lots for under $55,000.
Browse Tundra listings with the power of local market data.
Where are the other trucks?! Sadly, no pickup trucks made it to the next tier of ‘Top Safety Pick’. If occupant safety is a priority, it may be wise to reconsider a truck purchase.
See the complete list of truck safety ratings at Consumer Reports.
Free Car Buying Help Is Here
Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% free car buying cheat sheets today. From negotiating a deal to leasing a car the smart way, it’s all available for instant download. Get your cheat sheets today!
The Best Time to Buy a Car Is Here
Is there truly a perfect moment to buy a car? As it turns out, there most certainly is. In fact, the difference is so profound that new car incentives are 40% higher during the best time of the year to buy. Our team of Car Coaches, equipped with decades of combined experience, keeps a close eye on the auto market, and there’s no doubt about it—the best time of the year to buy a car has arrived.
It Pays to Be Patient
In today’s auto market, every dollar saved is magnified by interest rates that now average north of 8% for new cars, and nearly 14% APR for used cars. In other words, you’re not ‘just’ saving $5,000 on that new truck or SUV. You’re saving a lot more than that once the cost of borrowing money is factored in.
Think about the unfortunate predicament of EV, van, or truck buyers who drove home a new car in early 2023. Prices remained sky high earlier this year, but 11 months later, we’re in a different car market entirely. New car prices are down 3.5% in 2023 market-wide, but some segments have seen MUCH steeper price declines.
Retail EV prices have fallen 10% in 2023, and trucks, vans, and luxury cars have all seen similar price drops. The same Ford Mustang Mach-E or Ram 1500 that would have sold for 10% over MSRP months ago is now sitting on the lot for months at under invoice pricing.
Patience is a virtue that is handsomely rewarded in car buying. But you’re here looking for deals, so let’s get you some answers. When is the best time of the year to buy a car?
Year-End Deals Reign Supreme
In a perfect storm of downward pressure on car prices, the end of the year offers car buyers opportunities that reward patience. In December, automakers are pushing 2024 model year vehicles to dealer lots that are already full of 2023 inventory. On top of that, OEMs and dealers alike know that most folks wait until the end of the year to try and snag a deal. This results in the best new car sales of the year arriving all at once.
Anytime from now through December 31 is a great time to shop for new car deals. This year, new car sales are so attractive that used car prices could take a hit as buyers flock to new car lots. More on that here.
So, when is the best day to buy a car?
If you’re seeking the absolute best time to buy a car, look no further than the final days of December. It’s during this period that automotive manufacturers, dealers, and sales staff are highly motivated to achieve year-end sales goals. Their drive to negotiate stems from the fact that dealers receive year-end bonuses from manufacturers upon reaching annual sales quotas.
Factory-to-dealer incentives can translate into substantial income for dealerships. As a result, it’s common practice for them to offer enticing perks, including discounted prices, significant rebates, and special financing terms to customers.
These incentives not only benefit the buyers but also contribute to the dealership’s financial gains. Call it a win-win situation, something that’s all too rare in the automotive business.
Your Best Chance for a Deal Is Here
Every year, year-end car sales emerge as the most significant sales events of the year by a wide margin. Several automakers, especially U.S. domestics, currently grapple with an excess of inventory.
See the best year-end car sales here, updated weekly.
So, as we navigate through the final months of 2023, seize the opportunity to make the best car deal of the year. With motivations high and incentives even higher, you’re primed to make a purchase that leaves both you and your wallet smiling.
Free Car Buying Help For Everyone
Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% free car buying cheat sheets today. From negotiating a deal to leasing a car the smart way, it’s all available for instant download. Get your cheat sheets today!
The 5 Best Ford Year-End Deals
Year-end deals are finally upon us, but some offers are better than others. To bring clarity, our team has hand-picked the 5 best Ford yer-end deals in 2023. Click on any of the links to browse live inventory at pre-negotiated pricing. Delivery is available nationwide!
Let’s dig into the year-end sales that are worth your time.
Pre-Negotiated Ford Prices With Home Delivery? Yes! We Can Take It From Here.
Buying a car just got a whole lot easier.
When you buy your new car with CarEdge, you pay the CarEdge Fair Price and never step foot in a dealership again.
Here’s Our CarEdge Promise:
- Pre-negotiated Deals
- Delivered to your door
- No hidden fees or add-ons
- CarEdge Concierge to guide you along the way
It’s car buying done right! Learn more about buying with CarEdge.
2024 Ford Edge
Finance the 2024 Edge with 0% APR for 36 months, 0.9% APR for 48 months, 1.9% APR for up to 60 months, or 3.9% APR for 72 months. It’s rare to have so many low-APR options today. Plus, the Edge qualifies for a $1,000 cash bonus.
See Pre-Negotiated Ford Edge Prices
2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Finance the Mustang Mach-E for up to 48 months with 0% APR or 1.9% APR for 60 months. The Mustang Mach-E GT qualifies for $3,000 in cash incentives.
Lease a Mustang Mach-E Select for just $464/month for 39 months with $4,944 due at signing. Or upgrade to the Mustang Mach-E Premium for $492/month for 39 months with $5,372 due.
See Pre-Negotiated Ford Mustang Mach-E Prices
2024 Ford Maverick
Lease a 2024 Maverick XL for $331/month for 48 months with $2,831 due.
Note: Maverick inventory remains low. See local Maverick inventory numbers and market reports.
Browse Pre-Negotiated Ford Maverick Prices
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Lease a 2023 Lightning Pro for $592/month for 48 months with $5,791 due, or upgrade to a Lightning XLT for $634/month for 48 months with $6,333 due at signing.
Also, there’s a $1,500 cash discount on Lightning XLT, or $7,500 cash discount on the Lightning Lariat and Platinum.
Browse Pre-Negotiated Ford F-150 Lightning Prices
2023 Ford F-150
Finance a new 2023 F-150 for 1.9% APR for 36 months, 2.9% APR for 48 months, or 3.9% APR for 60 months.
Plus, there’s a $1,500 cash incentive for the XL, XLT, and Lariat.
You can also lease the F-150 XL STX SuperCrew 4×2 for $410/month for 36 months with $5,082 due.
Browse Pre-Negotiated Ford F-150 Prices
Don’t Pay a Dollar Over MSRP
Whether you’re looking for low APR financing offers, leasing options with attractive monthly payments, or cash incentives to maximize your savings, these deals have something for every Ford driver. With CarEdge, you can enjoy the convenience of pre-negotiated prices and home delivery, making your car-buying experience hassle-free. Explore these deals and make the most of year-end savings on your favorite Ford models.
Chevrolet and GMC Year-End Deals Feature Low APRs and Big Cash Offers
As the year draws to a close, automakers are rolling out enticing deals to lure in buyers, and Chevrolet and GMC are no exception. With low APR financing options and huge cash offers, Chevy and GMC’s year-end deals are worth exploring. We’ll take a closer look at the best offers this month, helping you navigate through the available financing and cash deals.
Pre-Negotiated Chevrolet and GMC Prices With Home Delivery!
Buying a car just got a whole lot easier.
When you buy your new car with CarEdge, you pay the CarEdge Fair Price and never step foot in a dealership again.
Here’s Our CarEdge Promise:
- Pre-negotiated Deals
- Delivered to your door
- No hidden fees or add-ons
- CarEdge Concierge to guide you along the way
It’s car buying done right! Learn more about buying with CarEdge.
Browse CarEdge Chevrolet and GMC listings, or click on any of the links below. Enjoy the deals!
Chevrolet Financing Deals
If you’re considering a Chevrolet, you’ll find some attractive financing options this year-end car buying season:
1.9% APR for 36 months
- 2024 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2023 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab RST
2.1% APR for 36 months
2.4 % APR for 36 months
Chevrolet Cash Offers
For some Chevy models, multiple cash offers add up to thousands of dollars off of MSRP. These are the best deals right now:
$3,500 cash allowance: 2023 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab RST
$3,250 cash allowance: 2023 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab LT
$2,500 cash allowance: 2024 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab LT
$1,500 cash allowance: 2023 and 2024 Chevrolet Blazer
$1,250 cash allowance: 2023 Chevrolet Equinox
$1,000 cash allowance: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox, 2023 Chevrolet Traverse
Learn more about Chevrolet year-end deals at Chevrolet.com
GMC Financing Deals
GMC’s year-end sales also bring some appealing financing deals to the table. At a time when the average new car loan APR is north of 8%, these are great financing offers.
1.9% APR
- 2023 GMC Acadia (plus no payments until 2024)
- 2024 GMC Terrain (plus no payments until 2024)
3.3% APR for 60 months
- 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab
4.3% APR for 60 months
- 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab AT4X
GMC Cash Offers
GMC’s cash allowances provide substantial savings on select models:
$8,000 cash allowance: 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Elevation with Turbo High-Output Engine
$6,000 cash allowance: 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 with 5.3L ECOTEC3 V8 engine
$1,750 cash allowance: 2023 GMC Terrain (includes $500 GMC Loyalty Cash)
Learn more about GMC year-end deals at GMC.com
Year-End Sales Are Your Best Bet At Savings
In conclusion, these Chevrolet and GMC year-end deals offer a range of financing and cash incentives for buyers. Whether you’re on the hunt for low APR financing offers or big cash discounts, there are enticing options available this month.
However, our team of CarEdge car buying experts agrees that even better deals are to come in December. The stars are aligning for phenomenal year-end car sales in 2023. If you’re thinking about waiting until 2024, here’s what waiting could cost you.
Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% free car buying cheat sheets today. From negotiating a deal to leasing a car the smart way, it’s all available for instant download. Get your cheat sheets today!
