Automakers had great U.S. sales year in 2013
Automakers had a fantastic 2013, particularly at year-end where sales increased 8.9% and 6% in November and December, compared to their respective totals in 2012.
Transaction prices were up in December by $197 with an average price per vehicle of $32,890 USD according to Kelley Blue Book.
Online auto market AutoNation reported a big increase in sales through its network, selling 77,964 cars in the fourth quarter, up 9% from 2012. They also report December prices for Acura increased the most (up 10.8%). Honda (up 2.5%,) Lexus (up 4.4%,) Scion (up 2.4%,) and Toyota (2.2%) all touted notable increases.
Edmunds.com reports leases increased significantly in 2013 with the highest single-month lease rate (27.5%) on record. Per Edmunds, most European vehicles sold in December were leased. Michelle Krebs, chief auto analyst at Edmunds speculates that prices may come down somewhat three years from now as these leased vehicles are returned.