Benzingaยท2025-07-17 16:27Core Insights - Auto retail ecosystem companies have shown strong performance year-to-date despite the announcement of auto tariffs and weakening industry fundamentals [1] - JPMorgan analyst Rajat Gupta has made several rating changes for key automotive stocks [1] Cars.com - JPMorgan upgraded Cars.com Inc (CARS) from Neutral to Overweight with a price target of $14 [2] - The company has made significant progress in developing new products that integrate into dealers' workflows, which is expected to help retain dealer customers [3] Sonic Automotive - Sonic Automotive Inc (SAH) was downgraded from Overweight to Underweight, with a price target increase from $65 to $72 [4] - Despite a strong luxury brand mix and exposure to key markets like California and Texas, Sonic has underperformed its peers and trades at a premium [4] Group 1 Automotive - Group 1 Automotive Inc (GPI) was downgraded from Overweight to Neutral, with a price target reduction from $435 to $415 [5] - The company's solid execution has been aided by favorable Texas exposure, but regional concentration increases volatility [5] Asbury Automotive Group - Asbury Automotive Group Inc (ABG) was downgraded from Neutral to Underweight, with a price target cut from $235 to $225 [5] - While the company is positioned for long-term growth through strategic acquisitions and digital investments, risks related to integration, execution, and elevated leverage are concerning [6]