Total US new light vehicle sales for February 2026 are projected to reach 1,183,000, a 3.8% decrease from the previous year, with a SAAR of 15.6 million units. Retail sales are expected to be 931,400, down 4.6%. Electric vehicle demand remains low, with affordability concerns impacting sales.

Despite a slow start to the year, JD Power predicts an acceleration in sales pace starting in March. Affordability pressure is significant, with average monthly finance payments increasing to $811. Interest rates for new-vehicle loans have decreased to 6.72%, providing some relief to buyers.

GlobalData forecasts US light vehicle sales at 16.2 million units in 2026, slightly down from 2025. Positive factors include low interest rates and tax reductions, but affordability remains a constraint due to tariff-related costs. Automakers are expected to increase sales volume, leading to rising competitive intensity.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Lower EV demand forecast to dampen down US February vehicle market