There are economic and geopolitical headwinds, as well as the negative impact of a possible strike (or strikes), that could kick in and cut demand, but the stronger outlook for inventory growth puts more upside potential to second-half sales. Furthermore, boding well for stronger sales in the remainder of 2023 is greater availability of more affordable vehicles – non-luxury small and midsize cars, CUVS and SUVs. After having declined every month for two straight years, the inventory mix of those vehicles has increased two straight months from the year-ago period - that also has shown up in improved market penetration for the group.

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