### The Surprising Truth Behind High-Priced New Cars By Monday Goma Feb. 24, 2026 1:05 pm EST image: Front 3/4 view of a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Mitsubishi Motors The average cost of vehicles in the United States eased back to $49,191 in January 2026, according to data from Kelley Blue Book. However, despite price increases cooling off, buyers of new car models in America are still paying more for their cars than they should. Using data from TrueCar, Consumer Reports (CR) estimates that some 2026 models are selling for as much as 7% over the manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP). ### Which Cars Are Overpriced? Granted, it's not that unusual for people to pay absurd amounts over the sticker price for new cars, but we were surprised to discover which vehicles are being marked up so heavily. It's not that we think they don't deserve all the attention they're getting. ...
### The Surprising Truth Behind High-Priced New Cars
By Monday Goma Feb. 24, 2026 1:05 pm EST image: Front 3/4 view of a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Mitsubishi Motors
The average cost of vehicles in the United States eased back to $49,191 in January 2026, according to data from Kelley Blue Book. However, despite price increases cooling off, buyers of new car models in America are still paying more for their cars than they should. Using data from TrueCar, Consumer Reports (CR) estimates that some 2026 models are selling for as much as 7% over the manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP).
### Which Cars Are Overpriced?
Granted, it’s not that unusual for people to pay absurd amounts over the sticker price for new cars, but we were surprised to discover which vehicles are being marked up so heavily. It’s not that we think they don’t deserve all the attention they’re getting. It’s more that they aren’t the most exciting or fashionable cars, and you wouldn’t typically associate them with that level of allure.
Perhaps we can see the appeal of the Chevrolet Trax, Toyota RAV4, Ford Maverick, Ford Bronco Sport, or even the Kia Niro as a hybrid or an EV, but some of the models below have really surprised us.
### The Overpriced Honorees
* Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
* Hyundai Tucson
* Nissan Rogue
* Jeep Compass
* Ford Explorer
### What’s Behind the High Prices?
While the reasons behind these high prices are varied, it’s clear that manufacturers are playing with fire by charging buyers so much more than the average MSRP. It’s time for consumers to demand better value for their hard-earned cash.
### Conclusion
The next time you’re in the market for a new car, remember that you don’t have to break the bank. With a little research and knowledge, you can find a great deal on a car that meets your needs and budget. Don’t get caught up in the hype – stay informed and stay smart.
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