Core Insights - The Q3 2025 analysis by CarGurus indicates a bifurcated market where budget-conscious buyers are leaning towards older used vehicles while affluent consumers are driving demand for new luxury models [1][2] Market Dynamics - Overall demand for new and used vehicles remains robust, with a notable shift in consumer behavior in response to market changes [2] - Year-over-year sales trends reveal a significant divide between value-focused buyers and higher-income shoppers, highlighting the importance of monitoring this balance in the future [2] Used Vehicle Market - In 2025, the majority of used retail sales growth is concentrated in vehicles priced under $30,000, which accounted for approximately 73% of the year-over-year increase in used sales [5] - The growth in this segment is primarily driven by vehicles aged seven years or older [5] - Coastal states, particularly California, Florida, Texas, and Virginia, have the highest availability of used vehicles priced under $20,000, with at least 30% of listings in this range as of September [5] New Vehicle Market - Luxury vehicle sales are being propelled by affluent buyers, with nearly half of new luxury growth occurring in the $70,000 to $90,000 price range, alongside strong demand for vehicles priced at $120,000 and above [5] - European brands are leading the growth in the upper-tier market, although tariff exposure remains a concern [5] - As of September, over 40% of luxury listings were 2026 models, with an average price approximately 6% higher than comparable 2025 models [5] Electric and Hybrid Vehicles - New electric vehicle (EV) sales surged by 53% quarter-over-quarter, while used EV sales increased by 16% ahead of federal tax credit expirations [5] - Hybrid vehicle sales are also experiencing significant growth, with new hybrid sales up about 50% year-over-year, particularly in the $30,000 to $40,000 price range [5] - The outlook for hybrids may improve due to fewer upcoming EV launches and expectations of muted EV demand [5]