(November 3, 2015) IRVINE, Calif. — The analysts at Kelley Blue Book kbb.com today reports the estimated average transaction price (ATP) for light vehicles in the United States was $34,023 in October.  New-car prices have increased by $458 (up 1.4 percent) from October 2014, while climbing $233 (up 0.7 percent) from last month.

"Transaction prices continue to rise with several segments besting the industry average in terms of growth, including full-size SUVs, high performance cars, mid-size trucks and vans," said Akshay Anand, analyst for Kelley Blue Book.

"From a brand perspective, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Lincoln, Ram and Subaru report superior month-over-month and year-over-year gains.  These brands had growth from different segments across their lineups, a promising sign given the increasing popularity of SUVs and trucks in the market."

One of the few brands to dip in average transaction prices from last month (down 3.6 percent) and year-over-year (down 1.8 percent) is Volkswagen.

"In fact, Volkswagen had the largest month-over-month drop as the diesel emissions issue continues to impact the automaker," said Anand.  "Six out of the eight vehicles within its lineup were down from last month, while only the Golf is up from this time last year, potentially reflecting Volkswagen's need to offer their vehicles at slightly lower prices since consumer perceptions of the brand may be impacted."

As a whole, Volkswagen Group is down 1.6 percent from September 2015, but up 2.9 percent from last year.