Worst Deals on New Cars Right Now

Some models are so hard to come by that consumers are paying well above the sticker price for them

Jeff S. Bartlett, Consumer Reports Managing Editor, Autos.

By Jeff S. Bartlett
Managing Editor, Autos

Data analysis by Todd Young

Updated December 16, 2025

2026 Nissan Kicks front driving — 2026 Nissan Kicks

If you have your heart set on buying a new car this year, be prepared to pay significantly more for some models—or choose one that isn’t in high demand. We’re seeing prices increase, along with destination charges.

The new-car market is experiencing a complex period, with some models carrying automaker incentives and others selling for over the sticker price, especially hybrids, trucks, and special-edition sports cars. (See the good models with current incentives.)

In some cases, you might think it’s worth paying more for your dream vehicle, even if it means greater depreciation over time. For other vehicles, it may be better to seek a suitable, more plentiful alternative. Given that this is the model changeover season, when 2025s may still be on lots and 2026s may have limited availability, there is some expected tumult with prices. Be careful not to get drawn into overpaying for a 2026, because prices may come down in a couple of months as more are manufactured. We’re already seeing some cars that were selling for over sticker price last month, as represented in this list, that now have incentives.

A trend we’re routinely seeing is that work-oriented trucks, low-priced vehicles, and front-drive SUVs are more often the models selling for over sticker. Plus, many of these, which you’ll see in the ratings below, are not among the best, most reliable vehicles in their class. Flexibility is key. Often another model, even if it has a slightly higher sticker price, can be a better long-term choice.

Based on data from TrueCar, a CR partner, we’re presenting the 10 cars and SUVs selling for the most money over the sticker price, starting with the highest differential and using specific trims as examples. Every model here is selling for at least 2 percent over the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. We focused on those that consistently sell for over the MSRP, rather than just high-demand trims, based on national prices. Regional supply and demand factors may be different where you live. All were selected from 2026 model-year vehicles priced under $50,000.

CR members will see ratings highlights and detailed pricing on specific trims and configurations. Keep in mind that this list doesn’t factor in Consumer Reports’ recommendations, nor do we endorse paying such premiums for a new car.

Of course, local pricing may differ. You can see the transaction prices for these and every other mainstream vehicle from the model pages by clicking through the ratings boxes below or searching via our interactive New Cars Ratings & Reliability chart.

For smarter buys, see the best deals on new cars and new SUVs now, and browse the list of the most discounted cars.

CR's Build & Buy Car Buying Service

In addition to research and reviews, Consumer Reports offers members access to our Build & Buy Car Buying Service at no additional cost. Through this service, members can compare in-stock vehicles, see what others paid for the car they want, and customize their payments online. Once they find a vehicle they’re interested in, members can get up-front price offers online from local certified dealers. On top of national incentives, Consumer Reports members are eligible for additional incentive offers from select manufacturers through the Build & Buy Car Buying Service. Plus, they can get an instant trade-in value for their current vehicle to use toward their next car purchase.

Nissan Kicks: 5% Over MSRP

Cadillac XT5: 4% Over MSRP

Mitsubishi Outlander: 4% Over MSRP

Mazda3: 4% Over MSRP

Ford Escape: 4% Over MSRP

Nissan Rogue: 4% Over MSRP

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: 4% Over MSRP

Jeep Compass: 3% Over MSRP

Nissan Frontier: 2% Over MSRP

Volkswagen Jetta: 2% Over MSRP

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