CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you’re in the market for a new car, don’t expect to find any deals.
According to iSeeCars.com, new car prices are up nationwide. An iSeeCars analysis of 1.9 million new car listings found the average new vehicle is priced 10% above MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price). In Charlotte, the price hike is even higher.
iSeeCars data found the average new car in Charlotte is priced 10.7% above MSRP which translates to $4,199 above the listed sticker price on average.
Experts blame the price hike on the microchip shortage that continues to plague the auto industry. The shortage means there aren’t as many new cars available so according to iSeeCars, dealers are pricing certain models above MSRP to make up for the profit lost from less inventory to sell.
The new vehicle with the highest price increase in Charlotte according to iSeeCars is the Jeep Wrangler. It’s hard to believe, but Charlotteans are paying an average of 26.3% above MSRP for a Jeep Wrangler. That price increase equals $9,027 more than the listed sticker price.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.
The next new car with the largest price hike in Charlotte according to iSeeCars data is the Kia Telluride. The average Telluride is listed at 25.9% over MRSP, which is a $9,960 increase.
If you’re in the market for a Ford Mustang, expect to pay 25% over retail in Charlotte. That translates to an additional $10,972 over the sticker price.
A new Lexus RX 450h in Charlotte is costing 24.6% above MSRP, which means people are paying $12,202 more than list price.
Purchasing a new Ford F-150 Lightning in Charlotte will set you back an extra 24.3% above MSRP which translates to an additional $15,297 above sticker price according to iSeeCars analysis.
Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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