Welcome to this week's edition of Black Book Market Insights, with in-depth analysis of used car and truck valuation trends and insights straight from the auction lanes. Click here to download the full report.

This week’s Black Book Market Insights report shows that vehicles in the Sub-Compact Crossover, Compact Van, Sub-Compact Car and Full-Size Pickup segments retained their values best last week. Out of all segments in both car and truck categories, Prestige Luxury Cars showed the largest depreciation while Compact Vans had the strongest retention.

“Tax refund checks have begun to arrive, prompting increased interest in small cars. This has led to better retention in values and higher auction sale percentages for these vehicles,” said Anil Goyal, Senior Vice President of Automotive Valuation and Analytics.

·       Volume-weighted, overall car values decreased by 0.51% last week. This is higher than the average depreciation rate of 0.39% seen in the previous four weeks.

·       In car segments, Prestige Luxury Car, Luxury Car and Premium Sporty Car segments declined the most, dropping by 0.98%, 0.65% and 0.52%, respectively.

·       Volume-weighted, overall truck values decreased by 0.31% last week. This is similar to the average depreciation rate of 0.33% seen in the previous four weeks.

·       In truck segments, Mid-Size Luxury Crossover/SUV and Full-Size Luxury Crossover/SUV segments declined the most, dropping by 0.56% and 0.55%, respectively.

 Overall, depreciation was 0.8% last month. Small cars, compact van and small pickup segments performed the best (under 0.5%) while luxury vehicles declined the most (over 1.5%).

Specialty Report

Collectibles: As we discussed last month, the January collectible vehicle auctions were huge, with over $350,000,000 in sales. As usual, the biggest event was Barrett-Jackson, which celebrated its 46th anniversary with $100,000,000 in sales. 

Recreational Vehicles: As we head into warmer weather, after an unusually mild winter in many parts of the country, we’re noticing auction values that are more stable than we had seen in recent months. 

Powersports: It has taken a little longer than usual this year, but the Powersports market is finally starting to see significant increases in value across a broad range of segments.

Heavy Duty: With more quantities of Class 8 Tractors showing up at auction towards the end of February, late model depreciation increases.

Medium Duty: Steady supply of box trucks putting downward pressure on the rest of the market.

Click here to download the full report.