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The Chevrolet inventory landscape is undergoing a shift. Currently, there’s a varied supply of new Chevrolet vehicles across the U.S., but some models, like the Silverado 1500, Blazer, and Equinox, offer opportunities for negotiation and deals. But where does Chevrolet stand compared to its peers, and more critically, which Chevy models are most ripe for negotiation? As we steer through the current state of the market, we’ll take a look at where Chevrolet fits within the broader industry, and spotlight models that present the best opportunities for a deal.
The Big Picture: Chevrolet’s Competition
Here’s how Chevrolet’s competition compares this month. It’s clear that new car inventory is rising across the board.
Make
Inventory % Increase (3 Months)
Market Day Supply - December 2023
Market Day Supply - September 2023
Honda
+68%
47
28
Kia
+89%
53
28
Toyota
+37%
41
30
Hyundai
+50%
75
50
Chevrolet
+63%
88
54
Nissan
+58%
112
71
Volkswagen
+52%
96
63
Ford
+43%
127
89
Jeep
+31%
191
146
Chevrolet is in the middle of the pack when it comes to inventory. Ford, Volkswagen, Nissan, and Stellantis’ Jeep have an oversupply.
American automakers have high inventory right now. Is that because they’re hot sellers? Not exactly. In recent years, Asian automakers like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda have all taken larger chunks of market share in the United States. These brands rely less on large SUVs and trucks, and more on crossover SUVs that prove popular.
How did the likes of Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda end up so competitive? In comparison to the imported cars of year’s past, today’s models offer improved reliability, better looks, and in most cases, improved reliability. These improvements from Chevy’s competition have given car buyers more reasons to cross shop.
The Most Negotiable Chevrolet Models
For buyers aiming to save money on a new Chevrolet, it’s smart to harness the power of car market data. Let’s take a look at today’s inventory numbers across the Chevrolet model lineup.
Using the tools available through CarEdge Data, we analyzed Chevrolet inventory for every model on sale in America. These numbers reflect nationwide supply. You can check out local Chevrolet inventory using CarEdge Data.
Make
Model
Starting MSRP
Market Day Supply
Total For Sale
Negotiability
Chevrolet
Malibu
$25,000
47
4,615
Average
Chevrolet
Bolt EV
$26,500
53
1,204
Average
Chevrolet
Traverse
$34,520
54
14,893
Average
Chevrolet
Bolt EUV
$27,800
55
4,218
Average
Chevrolet
Camaro
$30,900
76
4,744
Average
Chevrolet
Equinox
$26,600
85
37,708
High
Chevrolet
Blazer
$35,100
97
12,984
High
Chevrolet
Silverado 1500
$36,300
107
77,118
High
The higher the inventory, the more negotiable a new car will be. Remember, these figures are for nationwide inventory. For local Chevrolet inventory numbers, try CarEdge Data.
The most negotiable Chevrolet models right now are the Silverado 1500, Blazer, and Equinox. With 107 days of supply, the Silverado 1500 is ripe for negotiating. Trucks across the market are slow-selling as buyers step away from expensive trucks during this extended period of high interest rates. Ram trucks have the highest inventory and most negotiability, with Ford faring slightly better.
For shoppers looking for a deal on an affordable SUV, the Chevrolet Equinox and Blazer are two great options for well under $40,000. In today’s market with average selling prices north of $48,000, that’s not a bad deal. Just be sure to avoid these dealer fees.
The Bolt EV and EUV have average inventory and negotiability. Surprisingly, these two electric models are in higher demand than most electric competitors, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai IONIQ 5. It looks like the market for $50,000+ EVs has dried up, but there remains demand for more affordable electric vehicles.
Ready to negotiate a great deal on a Chevy? We can help you save thousands. From 1:1 help to free guides, we’ve got resources for every buyer. Our goal is to simplify car buying while saving you money.
The Least Negotiable Chevrolet Models
New car models with less than 40 days of supply are generally less negotiable. There’s never any reason to justify paying dealer markups, but scoring a deal under MSRP is always tougher for these models.
These are the Chevrolet models with the lowest supply this month:
Make
Model
Starting MSRP
Market Day Supply
Total For Sale
Negotiability
Chevrolet
Colorado
$29,200
22
4,442
Low
Chevrolet
Corvette
$66,300
30
2,017
Low
Chevrolet
Trax
$20,400
32
12,939
Low
Chevrolet
Tahoe
$54,200
33
7,724
Low
Chevrolet
Suburban
$57,200
36
3,107
Low
Chevrolet
Trailblazer
$23,100
39
10,775
Low
Chevrolet’s most affordable truck, the Colorado, has the least supply right now. The Corvette, always a low-volume model, is typically on this list. The most notable model is the Chevrolet Trax. The Trax just received a major facelift, and is proving to be tremendously popular among budget car shoppers.
Why don’t automakers just make more affordable cars? Sadly, it’s all about profit margins. Manufacturers like General Motors make a lot more money per vehicle selling high-end trucks and SUVs than $30,000 models. To make matters worse, the car market volatility during and after the pandemic showed them that buyers will pay more for cars.
What can we do about it? For starters, never pay junk fees, forced add-ons, or additional dealer markups. Need assistance negotiating your car deal? Let us help!
Leverage Market Data to Save More
While Chevrolet’s inventory varies across models, there’s a clear indication that deals are out there, especially for those who know where to look. Regardless of the popularity or scarcity of a particular model, buyers should never settle for unnecessary dealer markups, inflated add-ons, or costly warranties.
Should car buyers wait for 2024 to score a better deal? Don’t expect prices to drop substantially next year. If you’re thinking about waiting to buy, check out our 2024 car buying forecast.
Ready to master the art of negotiation? Equip yourself with the CarEdge advantage! With these invaluable resources, you can transform your car buying journey, gaining insights into market fluctuations, crafting a solid negotiation strategy, and clinching the best Chevrolet deal in town. Our mission is to guide you every step of the way.
In 2025, the new car prices remain within a few percent of 2022’s all-time record highs. This stability comes after a year of slow but steady price drops, followed by a jump in prices in late 2024. As new car price trends prove tough to forecast, keeping an eye on the market’s subtle movements becomes crucial for potential buyers and sellers alike.
Let’s delve deeper into the current state of the new car market.
New Car Prices – March 2025 Update
Which segments of new cars are experiencing price drops, and which are seeing a rise? Is now a good time to buy a new car, or is it a good time to sell? We will address these pressing questions and more.
According to the most recent data from Cox Automotive, the average transaction price for new cars is $48,641. That’s down slightly from the peak of $49,929 in December 2022. New car prices fell in January 2025, but were 1.3% higher than one year prior. Prices had previously fallen as low as $47,244 earlier in 2024, before bouncing back. Here’s a look at new car prices over the past year.
Month-Year
Average New Car Transaction Price
1/1/2024
$47,401
2/1/2024
$47,244
3/1/2024
$47,218
4/1/2024
$48,368
5/1/2024
$48,389
6/1/2024
$48,424
7/1/2024
$48,166
8/1/2024
$47,870
9/1/2024
$48,397
10/1/2024
$48,623
11/1/2024
$48,724
12/1/2024
$49,740
1/1/2025
$48,641
Some new car segments saw notable price declines last month, while others are holding firm. New car incentives have fallen sharply since year-end sales concluded. The luxury vehicle segment has experienced notable price reductions, with Tesla, BMW, Audi, Cadillac, and Lexus seeing lower prices last month. Tesla is now a top-10 luxury brand in America, not just the leader of electric vehicle sales. We’ll see how the first month of 2025 turns out for new car price trends.
Negotiability Is Key
If you’re looking for the BEST deal on a new or used car, remember this: knowledge is power when it comes to negotiating car prices. When you have an understanding of local inventory dynamics, car price trends, incentives, and the negotiable aspects of a car deal, you’re better prepared to drive away proud of your deal.
Free Car Buying Help Is Here!
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What do you think 2024 will bring? Hopefully next year will be less exciting than the past few. Already in this decade, we’ve seen a pandemic cause a freefall in car sales, followed by a severe supply shortage that sent prices through the roof, only for car prices to stabilize at a new, much higher normal. Will car prices drop in 2024? Is there relief in sight for buyers facing high interest rates and slim supply? CarEdge co-founder Ray Shefska, with his four decades of auto industry insight, shares his car market predictions for 2024. Let’s explore.
High Prices Will Continue in 2024
As much as we’d love to be wrong, it’s very likely that both new and used car prices will remain high in 2024. CarEdge co-founder Ray Shefska recently shared his thoughts on the most likely scenarios in the short-term.
All things considered, Ray says that continued high prices are all but guaranteed. When automakers see an opportunity for ‘price adjustments’, they’re not going to pass it up.
“I don’t foresee better pricing soon with various factors at play. For instance, the ongoing UAW strike is pushing labor costs up, despite them comprising only five percent of total vehicle production costs. This increase will inevitably lead manufacturers to adjust their MSRPs, providing a convenient excuse for doing so.”
Multiple factors are converging that lend to this thinking.
For new cars, it’s fair to blame high prices on the manufacturers. Despite consumer demands for more affordable options, OEMs keep producing over-priced SUVs and trucks. Gone are the $30,000 base models.
The continuous production of high-margin vehicles by manufacturers, which are typically priced out of reach for the average consumer, is a losing strategy in our eyes. Nevertheless, with $100,000 trucks and glamorous SUVs coming out of American and foreign automakers alike, this is the road we’re headed down.
“I’m skeptical about the auto industry having a stellar year in 2024, considering that a significant percentage of consumers feel they can’t afford new cars. Manufacturers are increasingly relying on fewer buyers to pay higher prices in order to turn a profit. The average buyer does not benefit in this situation,” said Ray.
Here’s where it gets interesting. The continued production of high-margin vehicles is primarily motivated by the manufacturers’ need to fund their ventures and investments into the electric vehicle (EV) market. Unlike Tesla, the likes of GM, Ford and Stellantis are still figuring out how to make mainstream EVs that can turn a profit.
This isn’t merely hearsay. In Ford’s earnings report, executives noted the continued profitability of their internal combustion-powered lineup, but also the financial woes of their EV division. Ford expects to lose $4.5 billion on EVs by 2023’s end, despite overall profits rising. The ‘Blue Oval’ has $100,000 trucks to thank for that.
Interest Rates Will Stay High
Cash will remain king in 2024. As of October 2023, the average new car loan APR is north of 9%. Used car loans are even more expensive, with the average APR at 14%. See the latest monthly payment statistics here.
The Federal Reserve has stated that rates will remain near current levels through at least the first half of 2024. With that said, auto loan interest rates are forecasted to remain high in 2024.
The tandem of soaring prices and stiff interest rates creates a scenario where affordability takes a significant hit. It’s the sad truth that some buyers will be priced out of the market as a result.
The lowest auto loan rates will continue to be found with manufacturer incentives. New car inventory has been steadily rising, leading to low APR offers from some automakers. Zero percent financing is still possible if you shop for deals, and APRs under 3% are quite common.
As we gaze into the automotive crystal ball for the forthcoming year, a rather annoying trend appears to hold its ground: the significant shortage in the used car market is on track to persist in 2024.
When it comes to used car prices, supply and demand drive the market. In 2023 and 2024, it’s the reduced supply of used cars that ensures prices will remain elevated. Used car prices rose 36% in 2021, only to fall 7% the year after. As 2023 comes to a close, it looks like used car prices will end the year about where they began 12 months ago.
The roots of the used car shortage can be traced back to the supply chain problems of 2021-2022. The production of new cars slowed, and sales dropped like a rock. Fewer cars sold in 2021-2022 resulted in fewer trade-ins and subsequently, a tightened supply of used vehicles. With approximately 15 million new cars that were initially scheduled for production globally never seeing the light of day, the ripple effect has led to a lasting shortage of used cars.
This is not a short-term hiccup. Industry insiders like Ray predict that the scarcity of pre-owned vehicles is likely to extend through this decade.
Ray emphasized the connection between today’s new car market and the shortage of used cars that he expects to see continue in 2024. “Manufacturers aren’t motivated to produce vehicles under $30,000 since they need high profit margins to support their EV initiatives. Production will continue to focus on high-margin vehicles, not affordable models and trims. The problem is that these expensive new cars are accessible only to a small fraction of buyers. Ultimately, more buyers will turn to the used car market for prices they can afford, no matter how inflated used car values may be.”
Consumers in the market for used cars should understand that higher prices and limited options will be around for a while. See the latest used car price date, courtesy of Black Book:
Legacy automakers have invested over half a trillion dollars in electrifying their lineups. The sad reality is that not a single one of them is anywhere close to Tesla in EV market share.
As of last check, 60% of electric vehicles sold in America were Tesla models.
In 2024, we expect Tesla to continue to dominate. Even if Tesla EV market share drops to 40-50%, that’s still domination by anyone’s standards. Tesla invested so heavily in mastering low-cost production that it will continue to have an advantage over Ford, GM, and the rest of the gang.
Tesla’s EV dominance increasingly puts legacy manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis in a precarious position. This will become much more evident in 2024. How so? Some BIG name, long-awaited EVs will arrive from legacy brands. Here are just a few…
If the above-mentioned electric models fail to attract large numbers of buyers, it will become crystal clear that legacy automakers have a BIG EV problem on their hands.
Traditional automakers are bracing for a turbulent period ahead, grappling with the dual headwinds of rising manufacturing costs and their struggling EV divisions. By the end of 2024, we’ll have learned a lot about the long-term prospects for legacy EVs. It’s possible that Tesla, once the laughing stock of Detroit executives, will indeed have the last laugh.
Wildcard Scenarios…
The automotive industry in 2024 faces a confluence of challenges, some of which are yet unknown. Aside from the variables discussed here, there are other wildcard scenarios that have the potential to disrupt market dynamics.
The UAW Strike
The UAW strike is over, but the negotiated agreement may force new car prices higher as OEMs spend more on manufacturing costs. As CarEdge’s Ray Shefska has noted, labor costs are a small fraction of total manufacturing expenses. However, that won’t keep automakers from using employee raises as an excuse for MSRP hikes.
The Detroit ‘Big Three’, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, are already at a disadvantage in the growing EV market. Rising labor costs and shaky supply chains threaten to wipe away what progress they have made.
The Global Economy
An even more important unknown is the health of the global economy in 2024. Most experts agree that there’s only a slight possibility of an economic recession, but it’s a non-zero chance.
This economic uncertainty is further exacerbated by conflicts overseas, and a looming election year here at home. Globally, there are dozens of situations that could, in theory, boil over into the automotive market. For starters, there’s the volatile situation in the Middle East, the simmering tensions in Ukraine, and the precarious state of affairs surrounding Taiwan. Each of these geopolitical hotspots has the potential to inject uncertainty into the global markets, creating ripple effects that could inevitably impact the automotive industry.
Policy Changes Ahead
Moreover, with 2024 being an election year in the United States, the industry is bracing for potential policy shifts and market reactions that often accompany electoral cycles, adding yet another layer of unpredictability to an already uncertain landscape. These combined factors make the outlook for the auto industry in 2024 particularly challenging to forecast.
Free Car Buying Help Is Here!
Ready to outsmart the dealerships? Download your 100% freecar 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!
Why is leasing a car such an attractive option right now? The average auto loan rate has eclipsed 9%, adding serious money to monthly payments for those who decide to buy. Leasing not only holds monthly costs down, it offers an avenue for drivers to always have the latest and greatest cars. This month, Hyundai lease deals represent some of the best offers in the car market. Let’s take a look at Hyundai’s top lease offerings, from sedans and SUVs to the brand’s popular EVs.
All leases are for 36-month contracts.
Hyundai Lease Deals: Sedans
Hyundai Elantra: $219 per month with $3,499 due
The Elantra epitomizes efficiency with its comfortable seating and advanced safety features. Its sleek design paired with a robust engine delivers both aesthetics and performance. The Elantra achieves 42 miles per gallon on the highway, yet is powered by 201 horsepower. Plus, an Elantra Hybrid is available without breaking the bank.
There’s currently a 43-day supply of new Elantra’s nationwide, which is below average. This indicates less negotiability when buying, making leasing a more attractive option.
Sonata offers a more spacious interior, and cutting-edge infotainment system. If the Elantra didn’t quite cut it for you, chances are the Sonata just might be what you’re looking for. With impressive fuel efficiency (up to 37 miles per gallon), it is ideal for daily commuting and long drives alike. A more efficient Sonata Hybrid is now on the market too.
There’s currently a 76-day supply of new Sonata’s nationwide, which is above the market average. This means buyers will have more negotiability, but also that manufacturers will have willingness to lease on competitive terms.
The IONIQ 6 lease now comes with a $7,500 lease discount. Hyundai launched this incentive to make up for the loss of the federal EV tax credit earlier this year. The IONIQ 6 ties the Tesla Model 3 for the title of most capable electric sedan under $50,000. With up to 361 miles of range and fast charging times that beat Tesla, you can’t go wrong. It’s laden with innovative technology, and a smoother ride than you’ll find in the Model 3.
There’s currently an 83-day supply of IONIQ 6’s nationwide, which is well above the market average. This means buyers will have more negotiability, but also that manufacturers will have willingness to lease on competitive terms.
The Hyundai Venue is the most affordable SUV in America. This petite model is the definition of a compact SUV, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Drivers report that it’s perfect for city driving, and offers tremendous value for such a low price (MSRP starts under $20,000). With advanced safety features, it provides a secure and enjoyable driving experience.
There’s currently a 37-day supply of new Venue’s nationwide, which is well below average. This indicates less negotiability when buying, making leasing a more attractive option.
The Kona is completely redesigned for the 2024 model year, but not everyone will agree that it looks better. The Kona is the next step up from the Venue in terms of size and features. This small SUV provides ample cargo space for most needs, making it suitable for both adventures and daily errands.
The Kona’s fuel economy is rated at 29 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, but add all-wheel drive and those numbers drop to 24 in the city and 29 on the highway. A fully-electric Kona is available, but it’s overpriced. For the same cost, you could buy or lease a faster-charging, longer-range Tesla Model 3 or Volkswagen ID.4.
There’s currently an 88-day supply of Kona’s nationwide, which is well above the market average. This means buyers will have more negotiability, but also that manufacturers will have willingness to lease on competitive terms. This is likely due to the impressive value that Hyundai’s other SUV models offer for a similar price.
Last call for the Santa Fe before it undergoes a polarizing update! These relatively normal looks will be gone in a few months.
The Santa Fe is the real deal for those wanting a true SUV. Including 72 square feet of cargo area with the seats down, this is a capable family vehicle at a budget-friendly price. With 26 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving, it’s not exactly fuel efficient. All-wheel drive lowers that even further.
There’s currently a 59-day supply of new Santa Fe’s nationwide, which is about average in today’s car market. This indicates fair negotiability when buying, but leasing is still a good option.
The Tucson captivates with its bold design and advanced tech features. Despite appearing slightly smaller than the Santa Fe, the Tucson actually has a bit more cargo space. It also gets better fuel economy, at 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. Its efficient powertrain and safety features make it a top choice for families.
There’s currently a 64-day supply of new Hyundai Tucson’s nationwide, which is about average in today’s car market. Leasing is still a good option, but offers may become even more competitive next month.
Since launching in 2018, the Palisade has quickly gained a large fanbase. For those wanting a larger SUV without having to go the way of the Chevy Tahoe or Ford Explorer, the Palisade and Kia’s Telluride are the perfect fit. Palisade offers a luxurious driving experience with its high-end interior materials and spacious three-row seating. Its robust V6 engine ensures power on the road.
When it comes to value for the money, leasing the Palisade for less than $400/month is amazing.
There’s currently a 74-day supply of new Hyundai Palisade’s nationwide, which is about average in today’s car market. Leasing is still a good option.
IONIQ 5 is a vision of the future, with its unique design and advanced electric powertrain. Nothing looks quite like it on the road, but there’s more to this EV than sharp looks.
With 303 miles of range (266 miles with all-wheel drive) and ultra-fast charge times, the IONIQ 5 is an award-winning vehicle worth a test drive. The only reason it’s not a top-seller? The IONIQ 5 does not qualify for the federal EV tax credit. Hyundai is offering a workaround by including a $7,500 discount on IONIQ 5 leases. That’s a sweet deal!
There’s currently a 102-day supply of IONIQ 5’s nationwide, which is well above the market average. This means buyers will have more negotiability, but also that manufacturers will have willingness to lease on competitive terms.
Hyundai Santa Cruz: $331 per month with $3,699 due
The Santa Cruz is characterized by its versatile utility, functioning as both an SUV and a pickup. Hyundai calls it a Sport Adventure Vehicle. Tow up to 5,000 pounds with HTRAC all-wheel drive. On the downside, the bed is just 48 inches long with the tailgate up.
There’s currently a 88-day supply of Santa Cruz’s nationwide, which is well above the market average. This means buyers will have more negotiability, but also that manufacturers will have willingness to lease on competitive terms. I suspect that many buyers opt for either an SUV OR a truck, not something that’s oddly in between.
Leasing is simple on the surface, but to secure the best deal, it’s important to be familiar with the contract you’re about to sign. Our team of Car Coaches created this resource to help you take control of your deal:
Looking for help with your car deal? Our team is ready to assist! With expert advice and personalized guidance, we ensure you not only get the best deal, but one that you’ll be proud of. Reach out to a CarEdge Coach today, and let’s find your next car at a price you can afford!!
It’s smart to consider all aspects of electric vehicle ownership, from the dreadful to the remarkable. When doing your research, there are common themes that quickly become obvious. Everyone knows that EVs are still expensive, and have the benefit of zero tailpipe emissions, but what about the lesser-known pros and cons of EVs? Here’s what they don’t tell you about the electric lifestyle.
5 Pros of Driving an Electric Vehicle
Big Savings on Maintenance
It’s simple: fewer moving parts means fewer things to break. Consumer Reports found that EV drivers fork out only half of what traditional car owners do for repairs and maintenance. Over the vehicle’s lifespan, this equates to a whopping average savings of $4,600 compared to gas-powered counterparts. But be wary of potential battery replacement costs, especially out of warranty.
The region you reside in and your tax status can determine if buying an EV can wipe out your annual income tax. Always research state and federal incentives before committing.
The federal EV tax credit was revised (or rather, completely re-done) in 2022 with the Inflation Reduction Act. Many models that previously qualified no longer do, and some, notably Tesla and GM, gained it back. The US Department of Energy has a vehicle lookup to show you exactly which EVs qualify today. You can access that here.
For some, state EV incentives will greatly reduce the overall cost of an electric car. The easiest way to find state and local incentives is North Carolina State University’sDSIRE resource and database.
Oh, The Solitude
Among the EV pros and cons, this one is severely overlooked! Electric vehicles are a haven of silence. If you transition from your typical Toyota, Honda or Ford to an EV, the stark contrast in noise levels will stun you. Studies have found that electric vehicles are a lot quieter than ICE cars at low speeds, but only slightly quieter at high speeds. Music enthusiasts and podcast fans, you won’t want to go back to gas after listening to your favorite tunes in an EV. Personally, it’s one of the things that makes any charging hassles I’ve ever encountered totally worth it.
Fuel Savings Add Up Quickly
Wave goodbye to the unpredictability of gas prices. Despite increasing electricity rates, charging an EV is still a bargain. For instance, a traditional car driver spending $3.50/gallon and covering 15,000 miles annually at 25 miles/gallon shells out $2,100. On the flip side, an EV driver getting 3.5 miles per kilowatt-hour (the EV version of MPG) and paying $0.15 per kWh would only spend $643 annually. Those who drive a lot will save on fuel sooner.
Also, with solar panels, you could potentially charge your EV for free!
HOV and Toll Lane Royalty
Many regions offer EV drivers unrestricted access to toll and HOV lanes, even if they’re riding solo. Some states also provide toll pass discounts for clean vehicles like EVs. Here are some of the states with HOV lane access for electric cars:
Arizona
California
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Maryland
New Jersey
New York
Utah
Check the DSIRE database for local EV incentives near you.
5 Surprising Cons of EVs
Electric vehicles are notoriously expensive, even though the gap between ICE and EV prices is narrowing. Here’s the latest update on EV price trends. With the elephant in the room addressed, let’s talk about some lesser known downsides of driving an electric vehicle. When looking at EV pros and cons, it’s important to look at the entire ownership experience.
Charger Chaos
Non-Tesla chargers are notorious for reliability issues. A study by Cool the Earth, a nonprofit focused on reducing emissions, revealed that 23% of EV charges in the Bay Area of California don’t work. In contrast, Tesla’s Supercharger network had an impressive 98% uptime.
What’s worse is that the rate of successful charging sessions is even lower than reported. EV drivers like myself have experienced chargers malfunctioning after five to ten minutes of charging too many times to count. But as far as the charging company’s data collection goes, those count as ‘successful’ charging sessions. The point is that for non-Tesla drivers, charging stations are hit or miss.
It’s always best to check charging station updates and reviews on PlugShare before arriving.
Winter Ruins Efficiency
The seasons change, and so does your driving range. Cold weather hits EV range pretty hard. From Tesla to Ford and all the rest, temperatures below freezing reduce EV driving range anywhere from 15% to 30%. While it may not be a big deal for some, those who take frequent road trips in the cooler months will surely notice.
More electric models are including heat pumps and battery preconditioning as partial remedies, but it’s not a silver bullet fix.
Tires Get Expensive
Love slamming the pedal when the light turns green? Better start saving up for a tire fund! EVs are much heavier than their ICE counterparts. Add in the instant torque, and you get a recipe for burning through tires. Remember this: it depends on your driving habits. If you don’t drive like a crazy person, drifting around every corner, you can expect your tires to last between 5,000 and 10,000 miles less than you’re used to. My tires on my IONIQ 5 have lasted me 20,000 miles so far, and I admit to a bit of ‘fun driving’ here and there.
These are ‘zero emissions vehicles’ however, so it’s worth noting that burning through tires isn’t good for the environment. Particulate matter from worn tires, no matter the vehicle it comes from, can pollute both air and water.
EVs do not require different tires, but there are options out there that are engineered to maximize efficiency.
EVs & Apartments – A Complicated Relationship
It’s still a sad reality that in most areas, owning an EV and living in an apartment complex is not an easy thing to do. Fortunately this is changing in much of the United States, but apartment EV chargers can’t get here fast enough.
If you live in multi-family housing, simply ask yourself this question before you buy an EV: where will I charge my car at night?
Resale Rollercoaster
The resale value of EVs remains unpredictable. Rapid technological advancements and fluctuating prices by manufacturers can affect resale values drastically. Investing in an EV now might seem wise, but predicting its worth 5 years down the line, considering advancements in technology, remains a gamble.
Are Electric Vehicles Worth It?
For those keen on enjoying massive savings on fuel and maintenance while reducing their carbon footprint, an electric ride is great. But it’s important to remember: EVs aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. EV pros and cons define the ownership experience, and should be carefully considered. Think about your lifestyle, driving habits, and living situation to decide if making the switch is right for you.
Looking for help with your next vehicle purchase? Our team of Car Coaches is ready to help you save more than you ever thought was possible. Learn more about buying with CarEdge.
In the worst of the pandemic downturn, all but three car brands saw decreases in sales. One of the brands to grow against all odds was Mazda. Why are more drivers choosing Mazda, and will the brand that relies on conquests to grow be able to keep up the pace? How do Mazda deals compare to offers from Honda and others? Let’s take a look at why Mazda’s reliability, pricing and brand reputation are all at the top of the game right now.
Mazda Sales Grow For the Most Part
In 2022, Mazda sold 294,908 vehicles in the US, with the CX-5, CX-30, and CX-9 being the crowd favorites. Despite witnessing an 11% sales drop in 2022, Mazda’s sales trajectory from 2019-2021 was overwhelmingly upward. In contrast, Honda experienced a substantial 33% sales decrease in the same year, while Toyota saw a 9% reduction. The significant sales decline of Japanese automakers, including Honda, is primarily attributed to persistent supply chain issues in the first half of 2022.
Let’s be clear: Mazda is no GM or Ford when it comes to volume. Last year, Mazda had just 2.1% of market share in U.S. light duty vehicle sales. But it’s the growth that counts. Back in 2017, Mazda’s market share was 1.7%. It’s not exactly quick growth, but it’s an upward trend that continues to this day.
Mazda Reliability Is Top-Tier
There’s a lot to love about Mazda’s number one strength: reliability. Mazda has earned a spot in the list of the 10 Most Reliable Brands for over a decade, yet the brand doesn’t have the same household reputation for quality that Toyota and Honda enjoy. We think it’s time to change that, as Mazda has earned a top-tier reputation in today’s auto market.
In the most recent Consumer Reports reliability ranking, Mazda is in 4th place, just above Honda in 5th. The year prior, Mazda was in second place, while Honda was in 5th. In 2020, Mazda shocked the industry when it scored first in reliability, beating even Toyota.
This year, Toyota and BMW (to everyone’s surprise) knocked Mazda down a few spots. Mazda’s overall brand scored 65, while the reliability leader Toyota scored 72 points. Honda scored 62 points. In case you’re wondering, no brand ever scores close to 100, although the ratings are officially on a 100-point scale.
What are the most reliable Mazda models? According to Consumer Report, the most reliable Mazda cars and SUVs are the MX-5 Miata, CX-5, Mazda 3, CX-9 and CX-30. Here’s how they scored.
Mazda Has High Inventory. That’s Great News For Buyers!
Bargain-conscious car buyers should seriously start paying closer attention to local inventory numbers. Mazda currently has 106 days of inventory nationwide, with 84,876 new cars for sale in America. Honda has only 34 days of supply, with 96,517 vehicles for sale. This gives Mazda shoppers a huge advantage when it comes to negotiating prices.
Inventory is one of the primary drivers of new car negotiability. Mazda has over three times the inventory of Honda. Buyers are scrambling for any new Honda that shows up on dealer lots, but Mazda shoppers are greeted with plenty of options to choose from, inherently reducing the stress of car shopping. But does Mazda have any great deals? Let’s find out.
Mazda Deals This Month
This month, Mazda is offering some compelling finance and lease options. In October, Mazda is offering enticing deals on various models. For the 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo, 2024 CX-90, and the 2023 MX-5 Miata, customers can take advantage of a low 0.9% APR for 36 months. Most other 2023 Mazda models are available with a 2.9% APR for 36 months, while most 2024 models come with a 3.9% APR for the same period.
Mazda’s lease deals are attractive too. Lease the CX-5 for $379/month for 36 months with just $2,999 due at signing. That’s not a bad deal considering how much drivers love the CX-5. The similar CX-30 lease starts at $301/month for 36 months with $2,999 due.
The all-new CX-90 is a larger Mazda SUV that the automaker has been promoting heavily in recent months. This more luxurious Mazda’s lease offer starts at $474/month for 36 months with $4,999 due. Yes it’s more expensive, but the CX-90 has 25% more cargo area than the CX-5.
All in all, these lease offers are worth considering for budget-minded shoppers who value reliability and modern amenities.
Could Mazda REALLY Be the New Honda?
It is plausible to consider Mazda as the contemporary equivalent of Honda in the current auto market for some consumers. With its impressive reliability, competitive pricing, and growing brand reputation, Mazda is not only drawing attention but is also emerging as a preferred choice for many. Its robust sales, even in challenging times, further underscore its rising popularity and the value it offers to customers in the automotive landscape.
Plus, Mazda actually has plenty of inventory on dealer lots right now. That is a reason to celebrate, because as we like to say: more inventory means more deals.
