Wealthy Buyers Sustain US Auto Market Amid Rising Payments
Cox Automotive reports US auto sales fell 2.1% in the third quarter as high-priced vehicle demand offsets inflation and rising monthly payments.
Cox Automotive Inc. reports that the annualized rate of United States auto sales likely decreased by 2.1% to 16.3 million vehicles in the third quarter. Despite this dip, the market performance exceeded forecaster expectations and remains on pace to finish the year only slightly lower than in 2025.
Average monthly car payments have risen to $821, yet the market remains resilient due to strong demand for higher-priced vehicles. This appetite for luxury and premium models has mitigated the negative impact of inflation and high interest rates on overall sales volume.
Most automakers are scheduled to report their official US sales figures for the period on Thursday.
