U.S. auto dealers remain confident in the market despite slowing profitability and traffic, expressing “cautious optimism” thanks to strong sales and low unemployment. +

Kelley Blue Book analysts say strong, steady incentive spending kept new vehicle prices in check in July, a month in which EV discounts soared to record highs ahead of significant changes to federal policy. +

Strong July sales reports were matched by a third consecutive month of improved credit access, according to Dealertrack’s latest Credit Availability Index, which climbed to 98.1. +

Each of the six manufacturers reporting monthly U.S. sales to the Automotive News Data Center says volumes were up on a year-over-year basis in July, led by a 19.9% increase for Toyota. +

vAuto data shows U.S. sales of pre-owned units were down 1.5% month-over-month in June, led by a double-digit decrease in CPO sales blamed in part on a “seasonal slowdown.” +

Cox Automotive analysts fear manufacturers and retailers are protecting consumers from the rising costs of new cars, creating an unsustainable dynamic as profitability concerns grow. +

Dealertrack’s Credit Availability Index ticked up again in June, reaching 97.3 after rising to 96.5 in May, driven by an approval rate that improved by 70 basis points month-over-month. +

Amid shifting supply-side dynamics, the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index increased by 6.3% year-over-year and 1.6% month-over-month in June. +

The Presidio Group’s latest survey names Toyota the most desirable franchise and finds U.S. dealers remain upbeat about profitability and values despite growing concerns over tariffs. +

Cox Automotive reports the number of dealers offering a fully online transaction has doubled in the past two years, resulting in a more efficient process increasingly driven by AI-powered tools. +