Core Insights - The eighth annual U.S. Consumer Insights Report by CarGurus reveals that shoppers are increasingly blending online convenience with in-person guidance, utilizing AI and mobile tools to enhance their car buying and selling experience [1][2]. Consumer Behavior Trends - The study surveyed over 3,000 recent car buyers and sellers, highlighting a shift in consumer behavior, motivations, and research habits, with a notable increase in satisfaction despite economic challenges [2]. - Comfort with online car shopping has reached an all-time high, with 83% of consumers preferring to conduct more activities from home, up from 72% in 2022 [6]. - A majority of consumers (86%) still prefer to see the vehicle in person before making a purchase, emphasizing the importance of in-person interactions for test drives, price negotiations, and assessing reliability [6]. Digital Tool Adoption - CarGurus users show a high openness to AI, with 88% benefiting from AI-powered tools like the Discover tool for vehicle research and comparisons [3]. - Over half (54%) of consumers use mobile devices more than desktops for their car shopping, with Gen X being the most mobile-oriented demographic at 60% [3]. Market Dynamics - Consumers are considering a wider range of makes and models, with 53% now considering three or more brands, an increase from 43% in 2024 [6]. - The percentage of shoppers visiting two or more dealerships has risen to 61% in 2025, up from 54% in 2024 [6]. Economic Influences - Economic factors have influenced 73% of respondents' buying/selling decisions, leading 31% to opt for used vehicles over new ones, and 23% to delay their purchasing process [6]. - Despite these influences, transaction timelines remain consistent, with over 80% of buyers and 86% of sellers completing their transactions in under a month [6]. Personalization in Car Buying - The motivation for car purchases has evolved, with "treating myself" rising to the third most common reason in 2025, reflecting a growing personal connection to vehicles [6]. - A significant 69% of respondents believe a car reflects their identity, an increase from 49% in 2022, indicating a shift towards more personalized car buying experiences [6].