In 2024, the auto industry in the United States sold approximately 15.9 million light vehicle units. This figure includes retail sales of about three million passenger cars and just under 12.9 million light trucks. Lower fuel consumption There are many kinds of light vehicles available in the United States. Light-duty vehicles are popular for their utility and improved fuel economy, making them an ideal choice for savvy consumers. As of Model Year 2023, the light vehicle manufacturer with the best overall miles per gallon was Kia, with one gallon of gas allowing for 30.4 miles on the road. Higher brand satisfaction When asked about light vehicle satisfaction, consumers in the United States were most satisfied with Toyota, Subaru, Tesla, and Mercedes-Benz models. Another survey conducted in 2018 and quizzing respondents on their stance regarding the leading car brands indicated that Lexus was among the most dependable brands based on the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles.

The U.S. auto industry sold nearly three million cars in 2024. That year, total car and light truck sales were approximately 15.9 million in the United States. U.S. vehicle sales peaked in 2016 at roughly 17.5 million units. Pandemic impact The COVID-19 pandemic deeply impacted the U.S. automotive market, accelerating the global automotive semiconductor shortage and leading to a drop in demand during the first months of 2020. However, as demand rebounded, new vehicle supply could not keep up with the market. U.S. inventory-to-sales ratio dropped to its lowest point in February 2022, as Russia's war on Ukraine lead to gasoline price hikes. During that same period, inflation also impacted new and used car prices, pricing many U.S. consumers out of a market with increasingly lower car stocks. Focus on fuel economy The U.S. auto industry had one of its worst years in 1982 when customers were beginning to feel the effects of the 1973 oil crisis and the energy crisis of 1979. Since light trucks would often be considered less fuel-efficient, cars accounted for about 77 percent of light vehicle sales back then. Thanks to improved fuel economy for light trucks and cheaper gas prices, this picture had completely changed in 2020. That year, prices for Brent oil dropped to just over 40 U.S. dollars per barrel. The decline occurred in tandem with lower gasoline prices, which came to about 2.17 U.S. dollars per gallon in 2020 - and cars only accounted for less than one-fourth of light vehicle sales that year. Four years on, prices are dropping again, after being the highest on record since 1990 in 2022.

Total Vehicle Sales in the United States decreased to 15.65 Million in May from 17.27 Million in April of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - United States Total Vehicle Sales - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

Worldwide car sales grew to around 78 million automobiles in 2024, up from around 75.3 million units in 2023. Throughout 2020 and 2021, the sector experienced a downward trend on the back of a slowing global economy, while COVID-19 and the Russian war on Ukraine contributed to shortages in the automotive semiconductor industry and further supply chain disruptions in 2022. Despite these challenges, 2023 and 2024 sales surpassed pre-pandemic levels and are forecast to keep rising through 2025. Covid-19 hits car demand It had been estimated pre-pandemic that international car sales were on track to reach 80 million. While 2023 sales are still far away from that goal, this was the first year were car sales exceeded pre-pandemic values. The automotive market faced various challenges in 2023, including supply shortages, automotive layoffs, and strikes in North America. However, despite these hurdles, the North American market was among the fastest-growing regions in 2024, along with Eastern Europe and Asia, as auto sales in these regions increased year-on-year. Chinese market recovers After years of double-digit growth, China's economy began to lose steam in 2022, and recovery has been slow through 2023. China was the largest automobile market based on sales with around 25.8 million units in 2023. However, monthly car sales in China were in free-fall in April 2022 partly due to shortages, fears over a looming recession, and the country grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. By June of that same year, monthly sales in China were closer to those recorded in 2021.

Autos include all passenger cars, including station wagons. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis releases auto and truck sales data, which are used in the preparation of estimates of personal consumption expenditures.

Concerning the ten selected segments, the segment Ford has the largest number of vehicle sales with 2,020,529 vehicles. Contrastingly, Subaru is ranked last, with 397,445 vehicles. Their difference, compared to Ford, lies at 1,623,084 vehicles. Find more statistics on other topics: a comparison of the number of vehicle sales in Estonia and a comparison of the number of vehicle sales in Finland. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

Total Vehicle Sales in China increased to 2915000 Units in March from 2129000 Units in February of 2025. This dataset provides - China Total Vehicle Sales- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Total Vehicle Sales in Thailand decreased to 47190 Units in April from 55793 Units in March of 2025. This dataset provides - Thailand Total Vehicle Sales- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

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US Used Car Market Size 2025-2029

The us used car market size is forecast to increase by USD 40.2 billion at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The used car market in the US exhibits robust growth, driven by the excellent value proposition that pre-owned vehicles offer to consumers. This market trend is further bolstered by the increasing penetration of online platforms dedicated to selling used cars, providing greater convenience and accessibility for buyers. However, the market faces regulatory challenges as stricter emission regulations limit the sale of non-compliant used cars, necessitating investments in upgrading inventory and adhering to regulatory frameworks. These hurdles, while significant, can be navigated through strategic partnerships with emission testing centers and ongoing investment in fleet modernization. Companies that effectively address these challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by the growing demand for used cars and the digital shift in sales channels will thrive in this dynamic market.

What will be the size of the US Used Car Market during the forecast period?

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In the dynamic used car market, consumers face various challenges such as car scams and fraudulent activities. To mitigate risks, car buyers turn to comprehensive car buying guides and car detailing services. A VIN number check is essential for vehicle identification and history assessment, while emissions testing ensures environmental compliance. Car sharing and subscription services offer flexible mobility solutions. Vehicle registration and title transfer processes can be streamlined through digital means, and car refurbishment and connected car technology enhance safety and convenience. Blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are popular safety features, while collision avoidance systems and lane departure warning systems provide added protection. Used car logistics and online financing applications simplify the purchasing process, and extended warranties offer peace of mind. Wireless charging, smartphone integration, and vehicle diagnostics are essential features for modern cars. Sustainable mobility and car comparison tools cater to eco-conscious consumers, while car maintenance schedules and roadside assistance ensure long-term vehicle care. Remote vehicle inspection and car care tips help maintain a car's resale value, and car subscription services offer flexible ownership alternatives. Used car fraud prevention and vehicle identification technologies protect buyers from potential risks. Car safety ratings and vehicle identification numbers are crucial tools for informed decision-making.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. Distribution Channel3P channel salesOEM channel salesProductMid sizeFull sizeCompact sizeVendor TypeOrganizedUnorganizedFuel TypeDieselPetrolGeographyNorth AmericaUS

By Distribution Channel Insights

The 3p channel sales segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The used car market in the US is a dynamic and significant sector, with numerous entities shaping its activity. Used car buyers continuously seek value, leading to a high demand for pre-owned vehicles. Search engine optimization and online advertising play crucial roles in connecting buyers with sellers, whether they're private parties or car dealerships. Wholesale car lots and auctions provide inventory for dealerships, ensuring a steady supply of used cars. Fleet vehicles, often traded in for newer models, contribute to the used car inventory. Maintenance records and vehicle history reports are essential for buyers, influencing their purchasing decisions. Safety features, infotainment systems, and driver assistance are increasingly desired in used cars, especially among budget-conscious consumers and luxury car buyers. Electric and hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity, driving the demand for used models in these categories. Car negotiation, fuel economy, and vehicle valuation are essential factors in used car selling. Digital marketing, including social media, mobile apps, and data analytics, helps sellers reach a wider audience. Certified pre-owned vehicles, reconditioned cars, and consignment sales offer buyers additional options and peace of mind. Car financing, vehicle inspections, and warranties are essential components of the used car buying process. Autonomous driving technology and car pricing trends continue to evolve, impacting the used car market. As the average ownership cycle shortens, the market will see an increase in the availability of used cars, making it an exciting and ever-changing landscape for both buyers and sellers.

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The number of new and used vehicles and the sales dollars respectively sold by month. MDOT MVA’s Customer Connect modernization project, implemented in July 2020, has increased the amount of data that is collected and used to calculate car sales. This data is updated in real time and may fluctuate based on external factors, including electronic submissions from dealers and other vendors.

Car Registrations in Indonesia decreased to 70895 Units in March from 72295 Units in February of 2025. This dataset provides - Indonesia Total Car Sales - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Number of units and total sales of new motor vehicles by vehicle type and origin of manufacture, monthly.

Crossovers are Americans’ favorite type of passenger vehicle. This category accounts for over 45 percent of automobile sales in the United States as of June 2022. The most popular models include Honda’s CR-V, Nissan’s Rogue, and Toyota’s RAV4. In the first quarter of 2022, U.S. auto buyers bought just under 101,200 units of Toyota’s RAV4 model, making it the best-selling vehicle in this category.

Toyota is the market leader  

The RAV4 was one of the very first specimens of its kind, as production of this model began in 1994. Toyota was the second most valuable automotive manufacturer worldwide in 2022, with a brand value of just over 33.1 billion dollars. It followed Tesla, which was first in the ranking with a gap of over 42 billion dollars compared to the runner-up. Toyota’s net revenue rose to 31.4 trillion Japanese yen in 2022 (around 257 billion U.S. dollars as of March 2022 exchange rates), a visible growth of over 15 percent compared to 2021, despite the manufacturer being impacted by the global automotive chip shortage.

 Crossovers benefit from the shift away from sedans   Crossover SUVs (sport utility vehicles) combine the fuel efficiency levels of compact and midsized cars and the higher seating positions of light trucks. They gained in popularity when fuel prices were low and, consequently, automakers increased production volumes and model additions of this vehicle type. Between 2014 and 2021, U.S. car sales fell from over 7.7 million to around 3.34 million units. Concurrently, light truck sales increased from 8.7 million units in 2014 to close to 11.6 million units in 2021. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vehicle demand led to a 9.6 percent drop in light truck sales in 2020. This drop in vehicle sales impacted countries across the globe. In 2020, Germany recorded a loss of over 140,000 sales of SUVs compared to 2019, whereas China’s new SUV registrations remained stable between the two years.

This dataset provides values for TOTAL VEHICLE SALES reported in several countries. The data includes current values, previous releases, historical highs and record lows, release frequency, reported unit and currency.

Germany Auto Industry: Vehicle Sales data was reported at 443,765.000 EUR mn in 2024. This records a decrease from the previous number of 457,659.000 EUR mn for 2023. Germany Auto Industry: Vehicle Sales data is updated yearly, averaging 283,065.000 EUR mn from Dec 2002 (Median) to 2024, with 23 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 457,659.000 EUR mn in 2023 and a record low of 140,566.000 EUR mn in 2002. Germany Auto Industry: Vehicle Sales data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistisches Bundesamt. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Germany – Table DE.RA001: Auto Industry Statistics.

The Tesla Model Y was the best-selling car model in 2024, topping 1.09 million sales. It was followed closely by the Toyota Corolla. Overall global car sales grew to roughly 75.3 million units in 2023, and are estimated to have reached over 77 million in 2024. Toyota’s next top model   Car shoppers purchased more than one million Toyota Corolla models, making it the world’s second most popular car in 2024. Toyota consistently ranked among the most valuable car brands within the global automotive sector. As of June 2024, it came in second only to Tesla, beating out other competitors such as Mercedes-Benz or Honda.  Big in North America   North America was the primary international market for Toyota vehicle sales, with sales volumes just above the domestic market. The Toyota RAV4, third in the ranking worldwide, was the best-selling SUV model in the U.S. market. The Ford F-Series truck also has a history of setting records in North America, as it is also the best-selling light truck model series in the United States. However, the model is less popular outside of these two markets. Only a little small number of such vehicles were sold in other markets.

In 2024, the total sales volume of automobiles in Thailand amounted to around 573,000 units. In that same period, Thailand had a total vehicle production of approximately 1.83 million units. Although Thailand’s vehicle production has shown some fluctuations over the past years, it is still one of the leading motor vehicle manufacturers in the ASEAN region. Automotive manufacturing in Thailand The automotive industry has been continuously supported by the Thai government as it contributes greatly to the economy. The government has been promoting local automotive manufacturing to reduce the imports of auto parts and automobiles. There are various measures imposed to attract investments in automotive production, such as reducing import tax for vehicle components and increasing import tax for completely built-up vehicles. Thailand was the Southeast Asian country that produced the most motor vehicles, with almost two million motor vehicles were produced in 2023. In the first quarter of 2022, the Japanese car brand Toyota held the highest market share of production vehicles in Thailand, accounting for more than 30 percent.

At around 948,000 unit sales, light trucks remained the largest U.S. auto market segment in September 2024, down from around 1.2 unit sales in October 2024 and decreasing by approximately 11.2 percent year-on-year. Global chip shortage affects supply The second quarter of 2020 saw a significant drop in automotive sales volume compared to the year before. Most of the disruption was seen in May, before restrictions to curtail the coronavirus pandemic were lifted. Sales showed signs of recovery in the following months, before dropping again in 2021. The industry's inventory-to-sales ratio nosedived in May 2020, and has not fully recovered since. Supply issues were not felt as strongly across the automotive sector, while car demand was low due to national lockdowns brought on by the pandemic. However, as consumers' purchasing intentions picked up, vehicle stocks could not meet the new demand due to chip shortages, which led to production halts and cuts. U.S. vehicle sales gain momentum thanks to light truck sales As the year 2020 came to an end, motor vehicle sales in the United States finished on a high note. Following the Covid-19 disruption, the U.S. auto sector began to recover in the third quarter. However, the semiconductor shortage and global inflation further impacted sales in 2021 and 2022. In contrast, 2023 was an encouraging year. U.S. motor vehicle sales grew to over 15.5 million that year, which was the highest it had been since the onset of the pandemic. This jump in sales was partly due to light truck retail sales, which exceeded their pre-pandemic level in 2023.

Between January and December 2024, General Motors was the leading automotive manufacturer based on sales in the United States. The Detroit company sold nearly 2.7 million passenger cars and light trucks in the U.S., which was around 10,000 more vehicles compared with the same time period one year earlier. Most other manufacturers also recorded an increase in sales in 2024 as they rebounded from the impact of the semiconductor shortage. Tesla, in contrast, reported a year-over-year decrease in sales volume. Electric sales continue growth In 2023, electric vehicles have fared better than conventional vehicles so far. Tesla’s vehicle sales are indicative of this trend on a global level, despite a slight decrease in U.S. sales. Tesla's worldwide deliveries broke records in 2023. However, competition is beginning to gain momentum, and manufacturers such as General Motors are continuing to add new electric vehicle models into their range of vehicles offered. Newcomers such as the Lucid Group and Karma Automotive are also gaining speed, with the Lucid Air Dream Edition Range being the electric vehicle from Model Year 2023 with the longest range. Vehicle market trends stabilize Annual retail sales of new light vehicles in the United States peaked in 2016, when the industry sold over three million units more than in 2020. The declining trend took place during a period of stagnation in the global automotive market, which saw light vehicle sales decline by around 14.4 percent between 2019 and 2020. Though 2023 recorded an uptick in light vehicle sales, this volume remained below pre-pandemic levels. During the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, transport modes that minimize contact with other people have become more attractive. U.S. vehicle sales have been relatively stable across 2022, and had started to grow in 2023.

The Toyota Group remained the leading car manufacturer by sales in 2024, with a staggering **** million vehicles sold globally. This achievement solidifies Toyota's position as a dominant force in the automotive industry, reflecting its ability to maintain a strong market presence. Mercedes-Benz Cars' remarkable performance in China In 2024, Mercedes-Benz Cars experienced remarkable success in China, surpassing its European sales and accounting for over a third of its global sales. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics of the global automotive market and the increasing significance of the Chinese market for car manufacturers, including those in the luxury segment. In 2023, China was the largest automobile market, recording over ** million sales more than those in the United States, which was second in the ranking. Toyota's ongoing rivalry with Volkswagen The rivalry between the Toyota Motor Corporation and Volkswagen Group for the top spot in the global automotive industry remains intense, with both manufacturers consistently vying for dominance. Toyota Motor Corporation's 2024 sales figures reaffirm its competitive position, signaling a continued battle for market leadership between these automotive giants. That year, Toyota Motor Corporation’s eponymous brand was the global best-seller, holding nearly ** percent of the new car market.