New-car transaction prices increase 2 percent year-over-year

(March 1, 2017) 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 $34,352 in February. New-car prices have increased by $757 (up 2.3 percent) from February 2016, while falling $328 (down 0.9 percent) from last month.

The greatest year-over-year gains are reported by Ford Motor Company, with average transaction prices up nearly 6 percent on strong F-Series sales. The refreshed Fusion, with a new 325-horsepower Sport trim, had the best month for Ford, up 6 percent year-over-year. The Lincoln brand was up 1 percent, once again benefitting from the new Continental sedan, which is transacting around $55,000.

On the other hand, Hyundai-Kia transaction prices were flat for February, as the Hyundai brand fell 6 percent, offset by the Kia brand rising 2 percent. The drop at Hyundai comes from the spinoff of the Genesis brand, in addition to the Sonata falling 3 percent. The gains at Kia are the result of the redesigned Sportage, which was up 11 percent year-over-year.