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EDMUNDS SHOCKS The Auto Industry (SCARY NEW DATA!) | Episode 980

EDMUNDS SHOCKS The Auto Industry (SCARY NEW DATA!) | Episode 980

CarEdge Live Dec 11, 2025 38 min
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About this episode

Edmunds' new market projections for 2026 reveal a concerning trend in the auto industry, highlighting a K-shaped divide in vehicle affordability. High-income buyers are expected to dominate the market, while fewer affordable options remain for average consumers. The episode discusses the implications of rising new car prices, the dominance of SUVs, and the potential rebound of off-lease inventory. The hosts debate the effects of interest rates on sales and the accessibility of auto loans, emphasizing the ongoing challenges for consumers seeking affordable vehicles.

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Technical Too Afraid to Ask
Company

Chevron with Techron

"Make sure to fill up with Chevron with Techron along the way, giving cars unbeatable mileage and helping to keep critical engine parts clean, so you can fuel up on memories."

Chevron with Techron is a type of gasoline that includes special cleaning ingredients. These ingredients help keep your car's engine clean and can improve how well it runs.

Term

MSRP

"...the dramatic increase in MSRPs that we saw that were driven during COVID times, when dealers were adding huge additional profit markups, the manufacturers looked at that and said,..."

MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you pay for a vehicle. It's like a starting point for how much a car should cost, but dealers might charge more or less than this price.

Concept

dealer markup

"...the dramatic increase in MSRPs that we saw that were driven during COVID times, when dealers were adding huge additional profit markups, the manufacturers looked at that and said,..."

Dealer markup is when a car dealership charges more than the suggested price from the manufacturer. They do this to make extra money, especially if a car is in high demand.

Car

Hyundai Genesis

"...ven have to type in it, defaults for me here at a Genesis and we've got $85,000 advertised price and $84,00..."

The Hyundai Genesis is a fancy car that feels really nice to drive and has a lot of cool features. It's a good option if you're looking for a luxury car without the high price tag of more well-known brands.

Concept

SUVs

"...enormous growth in SUVs, that so much of the population has decided they need an SUV, why have they decided that?"

SUVs are larger vehicles that can carry more people and cargo. They are popular because they are seen as safer and more practical for families.

Term

advertising

"...the manufacturers have been advertising and marketing and pushing on them consistently via digital advertising, television, radio, everywhere you look."

Advertising is how companies tell people about their cars. They use ads on TV, online, and in other places to make people want to buy their vehicles.

Concept

profit margin

"...they believe it is in their"

Profit margin is how much money a company makes after paying for everything it took to make and sell a car. If they make a lot of money on a car, they want to sell more of those cars.

Term

manufacturer suggested retail price

"...we've got the manufacturer suggested retail price and now the seller price listed right next to it, which is really cool."

MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests dealers sell the car for. It's a guideline for how much you might pay, but you can often negotiate a lower price.

Term

transaction price

"transaction prices have been kind of sort of flat over the past year. We can come here."

Transaction price is the final amount someone pays when buying a car. It's important because it shows how much people are actually spending, not just what the car company suggests.

Car

Hyundai Palisade

"The same Hyundai Palisade that I wanted went from 40,000 to 50,000 from last year."

The Hyundai Palisade is a family-friendly SUV that has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's known for its modern features and comfort.

Car

Hyundai Telluride

"...let's actually look at this, Dad, for Hyundai. And this was a telluride, correct? Palisade."

The Hyundai Telluride is another large SUV from Hyundai that offers a lot of space and comfort. It's similar to the Palisade and is also designed for families, making it a great choice for road trips.

Car

Kia Telluride

"Yeah. And this was a telluride, correct? Palisade. It was a Palisade."

The Kia Telluride is a large family-friendly SUV that offers a lot of space and comfort for passengers. It's known for being safe and affordable, which makes it a great choice for families looking for a reliable vehicle.

Term

dealer fees

"...but only eight have sold in the last 45 days. So these new 26s that these dealers are trying to sell..."

Dealer fees are extra costs that car dealerships might add when you buy a car. They can include things like paperwork fees and other charges.

Car

Mazda Cx30

"...because the Mazda CX-30 sits up higher and was easier for me to get into and out of than my own Mini Clubman."

The Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that's higher off the ground, which makes it easier to get in and out of than lower cars. It's popular for its good looks and fun driving experience.

Car

Mini Clubman

"...easier for me to get into and out of than my own Mini Clubman. Okay. But we, us older folks..."

The Mini Clubman is a small car that looks unique and has more space than a regular Mini. It has extra doors at the back, making it easier to access the rear seats and cargo area.

Concept

fleet sales

"we know that fleet sales are up. So it's not even retail customers that are buying the damn cars."

Fleet sales are when companies or organizations buy many cars at once instead of just one or two. This is common for businesses that need cars for their employees or services.

Car

Honda Passport

"...Honda wants nearly $60,000 for their passport in Kansas City, Missouri. Holy cow, Honda getting expensive."

The Honda Passport is a type of SUV that is larger and can handle rougher terrains. It's designed for families and people who need more space and utility.

Car

Toyota Sequoia

"The Sequoia is up there. It's an $83,000 Toyota. And it's one of the fastest sellers in the country."

The Toyota Sequoia is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of space for cargo. It's great for families and people who need to tow things like trailers.

Term

K-shaped car market

"That's that K-shaped car market. Yes, yes, absolutely."

The K-shaped car market is a way to describe how some types of cars are selling really well, while others aren't doing as well. It shows that different buyers have different needs and wants right now.

Car

Honda That Honda

"...ge car search. Let's say you're in the market for that Honda. You're using the car search."

The Honda That's is a small car that is easy to drive and great for city streets. It's designed to be practical, so it has a lot of room inside for passengers and their stuff, even though it's not very big on the outside.

Car

Honda Civic Hatchback

"Sure, this new Honda Civic hatchback. The way Car Edge Pro works is it's going to give you this overview of what your leverage is in negotiation on that particular vehicle."

The Honda Civic Hatchback is a type of car that has a rear door that swings upward, making it easier to access the trunk space. It's a popular choice for people who want a compact car with more room inside.

Term

out-the-door price

"Ultimately, what this is going to yield for you are the out-the-door prices. So all of your attachments come into one place, and you will actually get your OTD quotes from these dealerships."

Out-the-door price is how much you will actually pay for a car after adding everything together, like taxes and fees. It's the total cost to own the car once you buy it.

Term

OTD

"...and you will actually get your OTD quotes from these dealerships. And the agent will negotiate down the price."

OTD is a shorthand for out-the-door price, which means the total amount you'll pay for a car after everything is added up. It's a way to make sure you know the complete cost.

Car

Mazda Cx5

"Joe was professional and quick to make things happen. Started on Tuesday, owned my 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo. On Friday, learned the buying process, great experience."

The Mazda CX-5 is a smaller SUV that is fun to drive and looks nice inside and out. It's a good option if you want something that feels sporty but still has enough room for your family and gear.

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