(March 3, 2015) 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 $33,299 in February 2015. New-car prices have increased by $1,145 (up 3.6 percent) from February 2014, while dropping $208 (down 0.6 percent) from last month.

"An expected higher mix of SUVs, particularly full-size and mid-size, is helping drive the overall industry average upward," said Alec Gutierrez, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book.

"While utility vehicles are thriving, hybrid cars are doing the opposite, with transaction prices falling 2.5 percent from last year. Though rising 30 cents in February, gas prices are still more than a dollar cheaper than this time last year, so it will be interesting to see if these trends hold true in the coming months."

Reporting the largest percentage gain of all major manufacturers, Hyundai-Kia is up 6.6 percent. The Hyundai brand was up 8.3 percent with the biggest increase coming from the redesigned Genesis, which was up 22 percent year-over-year. In addition, Kia's average transaction prices are up 4.8 percent with solid increases from its redesigned Sorento mid-size crossover at 4 percent.

"Most automakers are benefiting from the utility vehicles in their lineups this month," said Tim Fleming, analyst for Kelley Blue Book. "In fact, American Honda increased 2.2 percent on average with help from strong demand for the CR-V, while Fiat Chrysler also gained on a stronger mix of Jeep and RAM sales compared to this time last year."

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