Consumer intent to purchase a vehicle remains high heading into 2026, signaling solid demand and continued sales momentum.
The details: A new report from TransUnion $TRU ( ▼ 2.29% ) has revealed that 39% of 3,076 adult consumers surveyed rank buying a car as a high priority, signaling increased sales and growth in the used car supply in 2026.
More than 80% of consumers surveyed who intend to buy a vehicle expect to do so within the next 12 months.
65% of those prospective buyers expect to trade in their current vehicle when making their purchase.
Among consumers planning a vehicle transaction this year, 87% intend to buy, and 13% intend to lease.
What they’re saying: “New vehicle purchases remain a clear priority for consumers, with more than a third of those surveyed planning to buy a car within the next 12 months,” said Jason Laky, executive vice president of financial services at TransUnion, per a press statement. “This intent to purchase points to solid underlying market demand and could meaningfully increase used-car supply as shoppers replace existing vehicles.”
Why it matters: Strong near-term buying intent, paired with a high expected trade-in rate, signals both demand and a potential lift in used inventory, creating opportunities to tighten appraisal, reconditioning, and acquisition strategies while tailoring F&I and financing offers to shoppers ready to transact.
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Between the lines: Gas-powered cars still top the list for consumers' purchase intent, but hybrid and EVs continue to gain traction, per the TransUnion report.
50% of prospective buyers indicated they intend to purchase a traditional gas-powered vehicle compared to 33% for hybrids and 16% for electric vehicles (EVs).
Millennials show a slight preference for hybrids over gas-powered vehicles, while Gen Z favors traditional gas models.
Nearly half of all respondents say they remain open to considering an electric vehicle in the future, with lower fuel costs being the top factor for EV consideration.
What they’re saying: “Internal combustion powertrains still dominate because affordability and charging infrastructure continue to challenge EV adoption,” said Satyan Merchant, senior vice president of auto and mortgage business leader at TransUnion, per the press statement. “Millennials show increasing interest in hybrids, while Gen Z leans toward traditional gas vehicles, likely due to affordability constraints.”
Looking ahead: These numbers suggest a favorable setup for both new sales and used supply, but surveys are only one lens on demand. Operators should treat them as a directional green light, then validate it on the ground with lead volume, showroom activity, and lender pull-through before overcommitting on inventory or spend.
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