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    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

    2025 Kia Soul front
    2025 Kia Soul
    Photo: 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.

    The new-car market is going through another complex period, with some models carrying automaker incentives and others selling for over sticker price, especially some hybrids, trucks, and special-edition sports cars.

    more on car buying

    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. 

    Based on data from TrueCar, a CR partner, we’re presenting the 10 cars, SUVs, and trucks 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 4 percent over the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. We focused on the models that are consistently selling 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 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 A-Z ratings.

    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.

    Kia Soul: 6% Over MSRP

    Hyundai Kona Electric: 5% Over MSRP

    Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 5% Over MSRP

    Buick Envista: 5% Over MSRP

    Kia Seltos: 5% Over MSRP

    Toyota Prius PHEV: 5% Over MSRP

    Nissan Kicks: 4% Over MSRP

    Hyundai Ioniq 5: 4% Over MSRP

    Chevrolet Trax: 4% Over MSRP

    Toyota Sienna: 4% Over MSRP