High end-of-year inventory equates to great new-car deals for buyers as dealers scramble to make room for 2026 models on their lots.
The details: With only a few days left in the year, dealers are working to clear out 2024 and 2025 models, with some brands carrying 80% or more leftover inventory, according to new data from iSeeCars, online vehicle listing search engine and research website
The Dodge Hornet has the highest share of leftover 2024 inventory at 82.1%.
The all-electric BMW i4 has the highest share of leftover 2025 inventory at 89.2%.
Among SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee holds a 70.8% share of leftover 2024 inventory, while the Lexus GX 550 (87.8%) leads for 2025 SUVs.
In the EV segment, the Genesis GV60 ranks first for leftover 2024 inventory at 21.8%, while the Porsche Macan ranks second behind the i4 for 2025 models at 67.8%.
The leftover 2024 and 2025 inventory for this December (a month that historically delivers some of the highest average MSRPs) includes 23 discontinued models, with the average price for discontinued models being $43,061.
What they’re saying: “New vehicle prices remain near record highs, presenting a challenge to shoppers seeking a good deal on a new car,” said iSeeCars executive analyst Karl Brauer. “But if dealers are struggling to move an older, leftover 2024 or 2025 model, it can be an opportunity for buyers who want new car peace of mind and warranty coverage at a reduced price.”
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Why it matters: Elevated year-end carryover can strain dealership floorplans, turn targets, and disrupt inventory management. The urgency to move that metal typically creates sharper discounts.
Between the lines: December also provides buyers with some significant financing advantages.
Captive financing arms often bundle lower interest rates, longer promotional terms or enhanced lease offers at year-end to help clear out older models.
Depending on a buyer’s qualifications, an automaker might offer 2% or even 0% over the standard financing rate, which currently is 6%-7%.
“December packs together three powerful forces for buyers seeking the best deals: dealer urgency to hit quotas, clearance of outgoing-model stock and enhanced financing leverage,” according to the car researchers and buying advisors at Edmunds. (via The Detroit News).
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