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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

    2023 Kia Sports PHEV at sunset
    2023 Kia Sportage
    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.

    Inflation and parts shortages have thrown a wrench into the auto industry, putting a severe strain on the new-car market. So forget about saving money off the sticker price on many popular cars, SUVs, and trucks. Some are so hard to come by that consumers are paying well above the sticker price for them, especially many Kia models.

    more on car buying

    In some cases, you might think 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 cars and SUVs that are selling the most over the sticker price based on data from TrueCar, starting with the highest and using specific trims as examples. Once again, Kia owns the list. Every model here is selling for 14 percent or more over MSRP. The highlighted models below are all from the 2023 model year.

    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 on our New Cars A-Z page.

    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

    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, members can compare in-stock vehicles, see what others paid for the car they want, and customize their payments online. Once they find the vehicle they’re interested in, members can get upfront 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, members can get an instant trade-in value for their current vehicle to use toward their next car purchase.

    Nissan Versa: 17% Over MSRP

    Kia Seltos: 16% Over MSRP

    Kia Rio: 16% Over MSRP

    Kia Telluride: 16% Over MSRP

    Kia Sportage: 15% Over MSRP

    Kia K5: 15% Over MSRP

    Toyota Prius Prime: 15% Over MSRP

    Jeep Renegade: 14% Over MSRP

    Chevrolet Bolt: 14% Over MSRP

    Ford F-150: 14% Over MSRP


    Jeff S. Bartlett

    Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSBartlett.