(November 1, 2018) IRVINE, Calif. — The analysts at Kelley Blue Book today reported the estimated average transaction price for light vehicles in the United States was $37,007 in October. New-vehicle prices increased by $1,118 (up 3.1 percent) from October 2017, while remaining flat (down 0.2 percent) from last month.  

"October was a strong month for transaction prices, as the new-car average rose 3 percent," said Tim Fleming, analyst for Kelley Blue Book.

"However, much of the growth was aligned to higher priced vehicles like full-size trucks and SUVs. In addition, Tesla is now driving the industry numbers up in a meaningful way, as the brand's sales volume recently soared to the level of top luxury automakers. All segments in the $20,000 to $30,000 price range also showed little-to-no growth, which could be cause for concern considering these segments make up nearly half of the industry's sales totals."



American Honda showed the most year-over-year growth of all automakers, up 5 percent. The Accord continued its impressive gains, posting an 8 percent improvement. A stronger sales mix of the recently refreshed Pilot also helped boost average Honda prices. Acura climbed 3 percent, thanks to the redesigned RDX, which jumped up 10 percent while also growing its market share in the highly competitive small luxury SUV segment.

Nissan North America also had a great month with its nearly 5 percent increase in transaction prices for October. The top-selling Rogue was up 3 percent and the new Leaf climbed 4 percent, helping the Nissan brand rise 4 percent on average. However, the Altima did fall 3 percent, as the current generation sells down prior to the new generation's launch. Infiniti grew its transaction prices by 6 percent, as the redesigned QX50 put up big numbers, jumping 20 percent.