Key facts
- Only 12.4% of new vehicle inventory was 2027 model-year by late August, down from approximately 25% in prior years.
- The delay is attributed to redesigned popular models, including GM's Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, with later production starts.
- This trend is not uniform across all brands, with some, like Kia, Cadillac, and BMW, already well into their 2027 model year transitions.
- The average transaction price for a new vehicle was over $50,000 in August.
- A slower model-year transition could lead to better incentives on remaining 2026 models.
The arrival of 2027 model-year cars at dealerships is proceeding at a slower pace than in previous years, a trend that could benefit consumers looking to purchase a 2026 model. As of the end of August, only 12.4% of new-vehicle inventory consisted of 2027 models, a notable decrease from the roughly 25% seen at the same point in the past three years.
Industry experts suggest this slowdown is primarily driven by the redesigned versions of high-volume vehicles. General Motors, for instance, is preparing to launch redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks for 2027, with production expected to begin in October. As these pickups are GM's top sellers, their delayed transition means a larger number of 2026 models will remain on the market for an extended period.
Other manufacturers are also experiencing staggered model-year changes for their popular vehicles. Nissan's Rogue received a 2026.5 model year, and Toyota's RAV4 was updated for 2026 in calendar year 2025, making an immediate shift to a 2027 version less probable. Honda is continuing to deliver 2026 models, although some 2027 CR-Vs have begun arriving.
While some brands, such as Kia, Cadillac, and BMW, are further along in their model-year transitions, the overall rollout is described as uneven. The average transaction price for new vehicles recently surpassed $50,000. Analysts believe the delayed introduction of new models might help stabilize prices, as newly designed cars typically come with higher price tags. However, patient buyers may find opportunities for better deals on remaining 2026 inventory as dealerships work to clear stock once the 2027 models become more widely available.