KBB: Average New-Car Prices Rise 2% in February
IRVINE, Calif. — Kelley Blue Book put February’s estimated average transaction price for light vehicles at $35,444. That’s up $722 from a year ago but down $96 from January.
Even with new-vehicle demand expected to continue to slow in 2018, average transactions prices have so far been unaffected this year — though incentives have risen similarly to offset part of the extra cost, the firm noted.
“It was another month of solid transaction prices in February 2018, with 2% growth year-over-year,” said Kelley Blue Book analyst Tim Fleming. “The numbers indicate that new-car buyers are still willing to pay top dollar for the latest models with the most current features and technology. Even the new Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are commanding large premiums over their predecessors, despite competing in a rapidly shrinking segment.”
American Honda’s transaction prices climbed 2% in February 2018 — with the Honda brand alone recording a 3% increase. The new Accord posted a 6% increase, while the Odyssey continues to top the minivan segment with a 13% year-over-year increase in its average transaction price.
Toyota Motor Co. posted a 3% increase in its average transaction price behind the strength of its redesigned Camry, which recorded a 9% increase in transaction prices. The Lexus brand posted a 1% increase in its average transaction price, although that should climb in the coming months with its redesigned LS sedan now reaching dealerships.
Another notable manufacturer includes Volkswagen Group, which posted a 7% increase in its average transaction price. The Volkswagen brand alone posted an 8% increase, buoyed by the new Atlas SUV. Porsche transaction prices climbed 8% thanks to the redesigned Panamera, which was up 19%. Audi transaction prices rose 4%, with the redesigned A5 and Q5 showing the most improvement.
More Industry

Charger Network Growth Slows
Despite a projected increase in public EV chargers in 2026, charging infrastructure remains a top concern for consumers as the gap between the most and least EV-friendly places remains substantial.
Read More →
Lenders, Consumers Take on More Auto Loan Risk
September records loosened credit access the most in over a decade as buyers took advantage of the conditions to afford trading, though loan applications fell.
Read More →
Next-Gen Hybrids in Sight
Dealerships can expect to see revamped hybrids from Honda next year as the company rolls out a new system and model lineup.
Read More →
Gem State Stores Change Hands
A larger auto group founded in the industry’s early years sold two franchises to a neighbor group that's on a growth spurt.
Read More →
Charging In Motion
Honda has been researching wireless in-motion charging for electric vehicles since 2025, and new technology developments have put it a step closer to a final product.
Read More →
Twin Cities Stores Sell
Minnesota-based Walser Automotive Group made what it called the most significant acquisition in its history with a three-rooftop deal in Minneapolis.
Read More →
U.S. Auto Sales Still Below Prepandemic Levels
Mobility Global industry observers don’t expect the market to return to the higher volumes that became routine before Covid but to stay well below its potential.
Read More →
The Powertrain Shift
Electric-vehicle owners are backpedaling, according to new data, with product availability driving many to shift back to gas-powered engines.
Read More →
Achromatic Autos
The shades that dominate the U.S. car market don’t call attention to themselves, though grayscale may have plateaued after a 30-year upswing, research shows.
Read More →
Used-Vehicle Affordability Worsens
Listing prices in August defied seasonal trends, rising above $27,000 for the second time this year.
Read More →