There are just a few days left in the month of August, which means it’s time for automakers to start counting the number of new vehicles they’ve sold — then tell everyone how they did.
Unsurprisingly, early predictions by analysts suggest the August tally will be down compared to year-ago results — just like every month so far in 2022. However, this may be one of the tighter months, in terms of making it into the black.
The sales volume in August is forecast to finish near 1.14 million units, up 3.6% from last year but down 0.3% from July, Cox Automotive predicted. With 26 selling days in August, the same as last month and one more than last year, the year-over-year gain in volume is expected to be lifted by the extra day.
While inventory levels are improving for some companies, higher prices and shortages of some popular models are still combining to keep sales figures down. Will it change at any point this year? Stay tuned.
New luxury utility
Last week, TheDetroitBureau took a trip out west to spend some time in the fifth-generation Lexus RX. The 2023 RX is all new from the ground up and we put the entry level and the top trim levels through their paces while in California.
Later this week, we get to tell you all about the experience, giving you the chance to see if it’s time to get a new luxury SUV.
We’ll also be keeping an eye on the schedule for the upcoming North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Originally set to start with media day on Sept. 14th, the roster wasn’t exactly stacked with automakers.
In fact, the initial slate showed 16 events on the calendar. However, a closer look showed the event included only Jeep, Chevrolet and Ford. However, Chrysler is jumping in with an event on Sept. 13, and there are rumblings more brands will be added.
If there are, we’ll be certain to have that story and any other breaking news as they happen this week.