(May 3, 2016) IRVINE, Calif. — The analysts at Kelley Blue Book kbb.com today report the estimated average transaction price (ATP) for light vehicles in the United States was $33,865 in April.  New-car prices have increased by $620 (up 1.9 percent) from April 2015, while increasing $74 (up 0.2 percent) from last month.

"April 2016 continues to show steady improvement in average transaction prices for nearly all manufacturers, with particularly strong numbers for the Detroit automakers," said Tim Fleming, analyst for Kelley Blue Book.

"Even though gas prices rose slightly in April, truck segments saw the largest year-over-year increases, with mid-size trucks climbing nearly 7 percent on average. This segment is on the rise, as consumers who don't need a full-size truck are finding they can still get many amenities and plenty of utility from the new mid-size trucks now available."

Among all major automakers, Fiat Chrysler had the largest increase in transaction prices at 4.8 percent year-over-year. The Dodge brand increased 4 percent on its large cars, the Charger (up 5 percent) and Challenger (up 8 percent), while Ram grew 5 percent on a larger mix of the pricier crew cab configuration for its pickup truck.

General Motors' transaction prices rose a healthy 4.6 percent in April 2016, with all brands moving upward except Buick, which was flat. The all-new Chevrolet Camaro had the biggest increase at 10 percent, while the Silverado gained 6 percent on a strong mix of crew cab sales. These helped push the Chevrolet brand up 6 percent at $35,943.

Lastly, Ford Motor Company jumped 2.1 percent, thanks to strong numbers from the Explorer, which was up 5 percent. Ford's biggest seller, the F-Series, was up 1.5 percent. Lincoln also had a good month, as pricing increased 5 percent to $46,901, with the biggest increase coming from the MKX at 9 percent.