In recent years, the price of new cars has soared. In fact, the average new car or truck now costs almost $50,000, according to a recent Kelley Blue Book report.
Vehicle prices really took off during the COVID-19 pandemic, when there was a shortage of computer chips. While that problem has eased, prices remain elevated, and they may rise further due to tariffs unveiled by the Trump administration.
In short, vehicle prices are unlikely to drop meaningfully any time soon.
With car prices parked comfortably in the stratosphere, shoppers are looking for any possible way to save a few thousand dollars off purchase prices. And as the year ends, there is a rare glimmer of hope for bargain hunters.
A “surprising number” of new 2024 and 2025 vehicles remain on dealer lots from coast to coast, according to a recent report from iSeeCars.
This means shoppers have “significant negotiation opportunities,” with some models having more than 80% leftover inventory, compared to an overall average of 0.4% and 21.3% for all new 2024 and 2025 models, respectively, according to the analysis.
In a summary of the study findings, iSeeCars executive analyst Karl Brauer says:
“New vehicle prices remain near record highs, presenting a challenge to shoppers seeking a good deal on a new car. But if dealers are struggling to move an older, leftover 2024 or 2025 model, it can be an opportunity for buyers who want new car peace of mind and warranty coverage at a reduced price.”
Stellantis models — including those with Dodge, Jeep and Alfa Romeo nameplates — lead the way on the list of leftover 2024 inventory. Here are the 2024 models piling up in dealership lots, along with the percentage of their inventory still available and price on average:
- Dodge Hornet (plug-in hybrid): 82.1% of 2024 inventory, $41,166 average price
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: 70.8%, $64,014
- Alfa Romeo Tonale Hybrid: 46.8%, $51,917
- Chevrolet Malibu: 31%, $26,760
- Dodge Hornet: 26.3%, $31,799
- Jeep Grand Wagoneer L: 24.1%, $92,497
- Genesis GV60: 21.8%, $57,764
- Dodge Charger: 20.9%, $59,388
- Nissan Z: 18.8%, $53,289
- Jeep Wrangler (plug-in hybrid): 18.2%, $60,740
Meanwhile, the clock is ticking down to the end of 2025 — and dealers know it. As soon as the calendar turns the page to the new year, 2025 models will become less appealing to shoppers, according to iSeeCars. That means dealers are anxious to unload 2025 models now.
Here are the 2025 models with high levels of inventory remaining:
- BMW i4: 89.2% of 2025 inventory, $67,745 average price
- Lexus GX 550: 87.8%, $81,291
- Subaru BRZ: 87.1%, $38,516
- Lexus LX 600: 83.9%, $117,757
- Toyota GR Corolla: 83.2%, $46,015
- Kia Niro: 80.8%, $31,914
- Volkswagen Taos: 80.6%, $30,796
- Toyota 4Runner (hybrid): 80.4%, $64,276
- Ford Maverick (gas and hybrid): 78.9%, $34,549
- Toyota 4Runner: 78.5%, $54,534
If you end up buying a new car, make sure to also shop around for car insurance.
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