The Worst Deals on New Cars Right Now

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

2021 Kia Telluride Nightfall Edition Black Kia

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.

Inflation, parts shortages, and a recovering economy have all thrown a socket wrench into the auto industry, putting a severe strain on the new car market. So forget about getting a good deal on certain popular cars, SUVs, and trucks. Some are so hard to come by that consumers are paying well above sticker price for them. That includes must-have models or those essential for business, such as heavy-duty pickup trucks. 

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In some cases, you may feel it’s worth the extra money 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. 

Below we present the 10 SUVs and trucks that are selling the most over sticker price, starting with the highest and using specific trims as examples.

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

And these aren’t the only models selling well above sticker price. Several others that are 13 percent over MSRP include the Kia Carnival, Kia Seltos, Kia Sorento, Nissan Kicks, Ford Escape, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Of course, local pricing may differ. You can see the transaction prices for these and every other mainstream vehicle from the model pages at CR.org/cars.

Also 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

When buying a car, in addition to research and reviews, Consumer Reports offers members access to the Build & Buy Car Buying Service at no additional cost. Through this service, a nationwide network of over 12,000 participating dealers provide up-front pricing information and a certificate to receive guaranteed savings off MSRP (in most states). The pricing information and guaranteed savings include eligible incentives. Consumer Reports members have saved an average of $3,218 off MSRP with the Build & Buy Car Buying Service.

Kia Telluride: 18% Over MSRP

Chevrolet Silverado 2500: 17% Over MSRP

Kia Carnival: 16% Over MSRP

Kia Sorento: 15% Over MSRP

Jeep Compass: 15% Over MSRP

Chevrolet Trailblazer: 15% Over MSRP

Chevrolet Suburban: 15% Over MSRP

Chevrolet Camaro: 15% Over MSRP

Nissan Kicks: 14% Over MSRP

Kia Seltos: 14% Over MSRP

Jeff S. Bartlett

A New England native, I have piloted a wide variety of vehicles, from a Segway to an aircraft carrier. All told, I have driven thousands of vehicles—many on race tracks across the globe. Today, that experience and passion are harnessed at the CR Auto Test Center to empower consumers. And if some tires must be sacrificed in the pursuit of truth, so be it. Follow me on Twitter (@JeffSBartlett).

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