Low inventory at car dealerships means many are asking above MSRP for popular models.
Car buyers may need to pay up to 27% above retail for an in-demand vehicle, according to a new study.
The Jeep Wrangler, Ford Maverick, and Genesis GV70 are seeing some of the biggest price hikes.
New cars — like most other consumer goods — have become wickedly expensive over the last couple of years. Chalk that up to a pandemic-generated confluence of parts shortages, virus outbreaks, and general supply-chain mayhem.
Manufacturing hiccups and delays mean that US car dealers have millions fewer vehicles on hand than usual, and that reduced supply has allowed them to start charging above MSRP for in-demand models. According to a new study from automotive research outfit iSeeCars, dealers are asking as much as 26.7% above retail for certain popular vehicles.
iSeeCars analyzed 1.2 million vehicle listings over the last two months and identified the 15 new models with the highest markups. If you're in the market for a new vehicle and want some semblance of a deal, it might be best to avoid the models listed below. But remember: these are asking prices, not actual transactions.
15. Mercedes-Benz GLAMercedes-Benz GLA 250.
Mercedes-Benz
Average MSRP: $38,392
Average asking price: $45,534
Difference: $7,142, 18.6%
14. Lexus RX 350L2022 Lexus RX 350L.
Lexus
Average MSRP: $49,629
Average asking price: $58,871
Difference: $9,242, 18.6%
13. Mini CountrymanThe 2022 Mini Countryman.
Mini
Average MSRP: $33,504
Average asking price: $39,829
Difference: $6,325, 18.9%
12. Ford MustangThe 2022 Ford Mustang Coastal Limited Edition.