1-23-2026 Auto Market Report

Economic Outlook for 2026

US real GDP growth is projected at 2.5–3% above the average of the last 2 years.
Inflation is expected to gradually approach the Federal Reserve’s 2% target,
Labor market conditions will normalize, with unemployment drifting toward 4.4%.
Federal Reserve policy is expected to ease, with interest rates moving lower

Used-Vehicle Retail Market Trends

Monthly used-vehicle retail sales volume in 2025 was higher than in 2024
Top-selling used vehicles average $24,049. 8% below listing price.
Average used vehicle listing price is $26,043, up 1% year-over-year

Wholesale Market Momentum

Wholesale prices strengthened in Week 3, with the 3-year-old MMR Index up 0.4% to
All model years saw price increases for the second consecutive week, especially 7–Lane efficiency remains elevated implicating dealer demand.

DealerTake Aways

Used retail volume is running ahead of last year, so plan for higher lead flow and faster replenishment needs.
The affordability lane is still a battleground: top selling used units average about $24,000
Wholesale is firming and lane efficiency is high, impacting replacement cost
Plan accordingly by buying core price band inventory early, market payment not price, keep turn times tight, and manage aged units to avoid margin and pricing risk.

Agile Auto, helping dealers execute today for tomorrow!

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