(October 1, 2014) IRVINE, Calif. — The analysts at Kelley Blue Book kbb.com today reported the estimated average transaction price (ATP) for light vehicles in the United States was $32,500 in September. New-car prices have increased by $133 (up 0.4 percent) from September 2013, while rising $56 (0.2 percent) from last month.

"Non-luxury utility vehicles are driving some of the strength in transaction prices, with combined market share expected to rise 2 percentage points to 27.8 percent of the market," said Alec Gutierrez, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book. 

"In addition to strong utility sales, average transaction prices are up for small, medium and large SUVs/crossovers.  With consumers continually shifting toward utilities rather than more traditional sedans, we expect to see transaction prices continue to rise."

Benefiting from strength in the utility segments, Chrysler and General Motors report solid gains in their average transaction prices, up 5 percent and 4.5 percent year-over-year respectively.  Jeep and RAM sales are helping drive strength in Chrysler Group in addition to Chrysler's redesigned 200 model.  GM increases continue on the strength of its Chevrolet and GMC SUV and truck lineups.

"Hyundai-Kia also made a significant gain, up 2.1 percent in September," said Tim Fleming, analyst for Kelley Blue Book.  "The redesigned Sonata helped bring the model average transaction price up 6.4 percent, while Kia's pricing is down 1.2 percent, due to increased sales of the compact Kia Soul, which now accounts for one-quarter of Kia's sales."