Year-End Car Sales: When 2025’s Sales Begin, and How to Maximize Savings

by Justin Fischer | Last updated Sep 15, 2025 | Car Buying, Electric Vehicles, New Cars, News

If you’re shopping for a car in 2025, timing matters more than ever. Interest rates, expiring EV incentives, and dealership lots overflowing with new models have created a rare window for buyers to save big. But here’s the catch: not everyone should buy now.

For most car shoppers, the smartest move is to wait for year-end car sales in November and December. EV buyers are the exception, and we’ll explain why.

When Do Year-End Car Sales Begin in 2025?

Mark your calendar. The first big wave of year-end deals will show up around Black Friday in late November. But the real flood of discounts lands in December, when automakers and dealers face the end-of-year crunch.

This is when manufacturers pile on cash rebates, 0% APR financing, and lease specials to hit sales targets and clear out inventory. Dealers are under pressure too, eager to move 2025 models off the lot before they officially become “last year’s cars.”

Now that we’ve covered when showtime will arrive, let’s get into who should wait for year-end specials, and who should just go ahead and buy now.

EV Buyers: Act Before September 30, 2025

If you’re considering an electric vehicle, the clock is ticking. The federal EV tax credit expires on September 30, 2025. New IRS guidance confirms that buyers can still claim the credit as long as they have a binding written order with a deposit in place by that date—even if delivery happens later.

For the first time ever, electric vehicle inventory is lower than the overall new car market, at least by the Market Day Supply measure of demand. As buyers rush to snag their $7,500 point-of-sale discount or tax credit, several top electric models have fallen below 30 days of market supply. This makes EVs less negotiable for the time being, at least until inventory builds back up.

Ray Shefska, CarEdge co-founder, puts it plainly:

“EV shoppers should take advantage of the federal tax credits before they expire. Do it now, not later. It will be a while before EVs pile up on dealership lots again, so now is your best chance at savings.”

If you’re buying an EV, September is your deadline. After that, the credit vanishes, and you’ll be left paying more until inventory builds back up in 2026. Check out local EV listings with insider market data.

ICE Buyers: Wait for Year-End Sales

If you’re shopping for a gas-powered or hybrid vehicle, patience will pay off. Unlike EV buyers who need to act fast, the best move for everyone else is to wait until year-end sales in November and December.

That’s when automakers roll out their biggest discounts of the year to clear 2025 models off lots and make room for 2026 arrivals. Expect 0% APR financing, thousands in cash rebates, and aggressive lease specials once Black Friday kicks off the season.

Ray Shefska puts it this way:

“Manufacturers and dealers get more aggressive in December than at any other time of the year. That’s when you’ll see the deals worth waiting for.”

If you’re buying an ICE or hybrid model, hold off until year-end. You’ll likely save more by waiting just a few months than by rushing into a deal today.

What Cars Will Have the Best Year-End Sales?

If you’re hunting for the deepest discounts this November and December, look at leftover 2025 models. With 2026 vehicles already arriving, automakers don’t want unsold inventory sitting around. That’s where the best year-end car sales will be found.

As of September 2025, two-thirds of all new car inventory is from the 2025 model year. Open to something older for a greater discount? There are 90,000 2024 models that are still looking for buyers. Buyers should confidently negotiate at least 15% off MSRP for these cars and trucks that will soon reach their second birthday without a buyer.

Expect to see aggressive year-end car deals on:

• Crossovers and SUVs from brands like Nissan, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, and Ford. Don’t expect Toyota, Lexus, or Honda to match the sales from these brands with higher inventory.
  
• Trucks and larger SUVs, which dealers are most eager to clear out before 2026 pricing arrives. These are high-margin vehicles, but dealers know they also depreciate quickly.
  
• Select luxury models, where MSRP hikes are already announced for next year. Look for big deals from Audi, Lincoln, and BMW. 

Put simply: year-end sales are the last chance to score thousands off a 2025 model before automakers reset the board with higher 2026 prices.

Why Not Wait? Blame 2026 MSRPs

If you’re thinking about waiting until next year, think twice. Automakers are already rolling out price hikes for 2026 models, and they’re not small. Subaru has announced increases across much of its lineup, Chevrolet is sneaking in higher MSRPs and padded destination fees, and other brands are following suit.

The truth is, MSRPs rarely fall, and 2026 will be no exception. Even if incentives improve later, higher sticker prices and fees mean many buyers will end up paying more. That’s why year-end 2025 car sales are your best shot at grabbing a 2025 model before the price resets upward.

Falling Interest Rates Could Change the Game

Here’s another reason to wait: the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates in late 2025, with meetings in September, October, and December. By November and December, auto financing could finally become more affordable.

Lower rates mean two things:

1. Cheaper payments for buyers. Even a 1% drop in your rate could total over $1,000 in savings over a typical 72-month auto loan.
   
2. A potential rush of competition for popular models, especially Toyotas, Hondas, and Lexuses that rarely feature low-APR incentives.

That’s why it pays to be prepared. Shoppers who know what fair pricing and rates look like will be better positioned when demand picks up.

Remember to Shop the Deals

Dealers love to talk about monthly payments, but don’t let that distract you from the total out-the-door cost. Always shop around before accepting a higher APR from the dealership, especially if you’re buying in-demand models like Toyota, Lexus, or Honda. Competitors like Mazda, Hyundai, and Kia commonly offer greater discounts and APR incentives.

CarEdge can help you compare financing offers, negotiate discounts, and avoid dealer tricks. Whether you’re looking at year-end clearance sales or considering one of the last EV credits, the right strategy can save you thousands.

See how we can help make car buying easy and pain-free, no matter your budget.

The Least and Most Expensive Car Brands in 2025

by Justin Fischer | Last updated Sep 11, 2025 | Car Buying, Electric Vehicles, New Cars, News

How much does brand really matter when it comes to car prices? Quite a lot, as it turns out. Whether you’re eyeing a commuter car or dreaming of a luxury ride, the average price by brand shows just how wide the gap has grown in today’s market.

At CarEdge, we pulled together the latest brand-level data to show you the average transaction price by car brand, from the cheapest to the most expensive. The results might surprise you. Some budget-friendly names are still hanging on, while the ultra-luxury world continues to climb into the stratosphere. Let’s take a look at the cheapest car brands in America, and how they compare to the most expensive brands.

The Least Expensive Car Brands in America

If you’re looking for value, these are the brands to keep on your radar. Most of these car brands average in the $30,000 – $40,000 range. Affordability makes these solid picks for families, commuters, first-time buyers, and just overall frugal drivers.

Mitsubishi – $31,008

Mitsubishi’s lineup is small, but models like the Outlander Sport keep prices at the lowest end of the spectrum. If you’re simply looking for the cheapest way into a new car, Mitsubishi tops the list.

Nissan – $35,064

With affordable sedans like the Sentra and Versa, plus the popular Rogue SUV, Nissan delivers plenty of options for buyers on a budget. In 2025, Nissan offers a mix of affordability and variety as they aim to win back market share for the struggling automaker.

Buick – $35,077

Buick may be marketed as GM’s entry-level luxury brand, but the brand’s SUVs like the Encore GX and Envision are surprisingly cheap. For many, Buick makes it possible to drive a near-luxury car without the luxury price tag.

Kia – $35,935

Once the underdog, Kia now offers some of the best value cars in the industry. Kia continues to move its lineup upmarket, with the EV9 easily going for north of $60,000. Fortunately, models like the new K4, Soul, and Niro keep prices low for most buyers.

Subaru – $36,578

Standard all-wheel drive across nearly every model adds value, especially in snowy states. Budget-friendly pricing plus all-weather capability makes Subaru stand out.

Mazda – $37,634

Mazda blends sporty handling with a premium feel, yet average prices remain under $40K.
For budget-conscious drivers, Mazda is known for affordable cars that feel like luxury competitors.

Hyundai – $37,877

From the Elantra to the Tucson, Hyundai offers popular budget models alongside top-selling EVs like the IONIQ 5. Hyundai is becoming known as a brand that balances affordability with innovation. Now, it’s just a question of whether or not they’ll keep prices affordable as their lineup moves into the future.

Honda – $38,414

The Civic, Accord, and CR-V continue to anchor Honda’s reputation for reliable and efficient cars. Proven long-term reliability and strong resale values continue to lift Honda, even with  models like the Passport and Prologue pulling prices higher.

Volkswagen – $39,570

Volkswagen keeps things reasonable with models like the Taos and Jetta, though EVs like the ID.4 edge higher. As the originator of “the people’s car”, VW offers European style at an accessible price.

MINI – $42,004

Stylish, quirky, and fun to drive, MINI rounds out the affordable list, though options and trims can push prices upward quickly.

The Most Expensive Car Brands in America

At the other end of the spectrum, prices soar far beyond what most drivers will ever spend. These are the brands with six-figure averages, where exclusivity, craftsmanship, and performance come at a steep premium. Let’s work our way from GM’s flagship brand up to the most expensive car brand in the U.S.

Cadillac – $79,922

Cadillac is the only U.S. automaker on this list, and it’s inching closer to European luxury prices. These days, one-third of Cadillac sales are electric, and that is likely to push prices higher with the cancellation of the XT4, CT4, and CT5. Besides EVs, the Escalade is a big reason for the nearly $80,000 average. 

Land Rover – $102,504

Luxury SUVs like the Range Rover and Defender push Land Rover over the $100K mark. The appeal is off-road prestige paired with upscale interiors, but ownership costs are high. Frequent reliability complaints remind buyers that you not only need to afford the price tag, you need to budget for maintenance too. 

Maserati – $109,957

Maserati’s lineup, from the Grecale SUV to the GranTurismo coupe, oozes Italian styling. But for most buyers, the brand is a niche choice thanks to higher maintenance costs and limited dealer networks. Maserati offers exclusivity, though it comes with compromises.

Porsche – $121,678

Porsche has mastered blending sports car heritage with family-friendly SUVs. The 911, Cayenne, and Taycan EV drive the brand’s average price above $120,000. Buyers don’t just pay for performance, they also buy into one of the strongest luxury resale values around.

Aston Martin – $298,721

James Bond’s car of choice doesn’t come cheap. Aston Martin’s lineup of hand-built performance cars averages nearly $300K. Buyers pay for prestige, but also for rarity. With production volumes far lower than mainstream luxury brands, Aston Martin is a symbol of exclusivity.

Bentley – $317,263

Every Bentley is handcrafted, with bespoke interiors and massive engines that exude old-world luxury. Models like the Bentayga SUV and Continental GT keep Bentley relevant, but their pricing puts them firmly in ultra-luxury territory.

McLaren – $337,841

McLaren builds cars for the racetrack as much as for the road. Every model is a supercar, and nothing in the lineup dips below six figures. With averages pushing $340K, McLaren is about raw performance, carbon fiber, and technology meant for speed.

Lamborghini – $358,542

Known for flamboyant styling and roaring V10 and V12 engines, Lamborghini remains one of the most recognizable exotic brands. Models like the Urus have broadened the lineup, but the average still hovers near $360K. This is wealth on wheels, unapologetically loud in every sense.

Ferrari – $362,640

Ferrari is synonymous with performance, prestige, and scarcity. Limited production keeps demand high, ensuring average prices remain above $360K. Ferrari ownership is about more than the car, it’s a membership in an elite club.

Rolls-Royce – $503,672

The pinnacle of luxury, Rolls-Royce tops the list with an average transaction price over half a million dollars. Every Rolls is custom-built, with endless personalization options. For most buyers, this is unobtainable, but for the ultra-wealthy, Rolls-Royce represents the ultimate status symbol.

The Affordability Gap Continues to Widen

Brand matters a lot when it comes to pricing, but it’s not the whole story. Reliability, depreciation, insurance, and ownership costs all play just as big a role in how much a car really costs over time.

Unfortunately, car price inflation is a serious challenge for consumers today. On average, new car prices have risen 30% over the past five years. Our best advice for car shoppers is to consider the entire cost of ownership before you buy, from expected depreciation and fuel economy to reliability.

Before you buy, make sure you’re looking at the full financial picture, not just the MSRP.

👉 Want to see how your car will hold its value? Check out free car depreciation data from CarEdge.