Ready to Get Gouged? 10 Cars Where Dealer Markups Are Still Absolutely Bonkers Right Now

Autos Lifestyle
Ready to Get Gouged? 10 Cars Where Dealer Markups Are Still Absolutely Bonkers Right Now

Let’s be honest, trying to buy a new car right now feels like walking into a rigged game. The new car supply chain might be showing signs of improvement, but don’t let that fool you into thinking the wild west of pricing is over. Dealerships are still playing fast and loose with MSRPs, turning what should be an exciting purchase into a frustrating battle against inflated costs. We’re talking about an average new car price that’s 8.5 percent over MSRP, according to a recent iSeeCars study, and believe us, that’s just the tip of the iceberg for some models. It’s enough to make even the most dedicated car enthusiast throw their hands up in despair.

Indeed, the current market is a bizarre beast where demand consistently outstrips supply, especially for the hottest rides. Karl Brauer, iSeeCars Executive Analyst, perfectly summed it up: “Dealers have responded to market conditions by pricing cars above MSRP to make a higher profit on specific models and to help offset lower sales volumes due to restricted new car production.” Basically, if you want *the* car, you’re often forced to pony up well above sticker price, or face a waitlist stretching into next year. It’s a seller’s market, and boy, are they taking advantage.

But it gets even crazier than that. We’re not just talking about a few thousand dollars here and there. Some vehicles are seeing markups that are truly insane, well beyond that 8.5 percent average. We’ve dug deep into the data, sifting through the numbers to bring you the cold, hard truth about which vehicles are currently commanding the most ridiculous premiums. Forget the notion of a fair deal; for these ten cars, you’ll need to be ready to pay a king’s ransom. Let’s dive into the first five contenders in this overpaying frenzy.

Genesis GV70
File:Genesis GV70 JK1 white (3) (cropped).jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

1. **Genesis GV70**

Ah, the Genesis GV70. This sleek, sophisticated SUV from Hyundai’s luxury wing certainly knows how to make an entrance. It even got a little pop-culture boost, riding the coattails of its older sibling, the Genesis GV80, which famously played a role in golf star Tiger Woods’ accident. All things considered, Woods walked away with relatively minor injuries, a testament perhaps to the GV80’s construction, and by extension, the brand’s growing reputation for safety and luxury.

This unexpected bit of notoriety undoubtedly added to the GV70’s appeal, contributing to its already strong demand. Car buyers, always keen on vehicles with a dash of street cred or a solid safety story, latched onto the Genesis brand. This has created a perfect storm of desirability that dealerships are all too eager to exploit. When a car has a good story, and looks good doing it, people are simply willing to pay more.

And pay more they do. According to Gear Patrol, the Genesis GV70’s average MSRP is a respectable $44,299. However, the average price people are actually shelling out for this luxury SUV is a staggering $56,476. That’s not a minor adjustment; that’s a whopping 27.5% increase over MSRP! It’s clear that the GV70 isn’t just selling, it’s selling at an outrageous premium, cementing its place as one of the cars where dealer markups are absolutely insane.

Car Model Information: 2023 Genesis GV70 2.5T
Name: Genesis GV70
ModelCode: JK1
Caption: 2021 Genesis GV70 Sport
Manufacturer: Genesis Motor
Production: 2020–present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Ulsan
Designer: Ki-Euk Kim (exterior)
Class: Compact executive car,crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai-Kia M platforms
Engine: unbulleted list
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Powerout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Automatic transmission
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
Wheelbase: 2875 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4715 mm
Width: 1910 mm
Height: 1630 mm
Weight: unbulleted list
Charging: Vehicle-to-grid
Sp: uk
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Korean-language sources (ko), Cars introduced in 2020
Summary: The Genesis GV70 (Korean: 제네시스 GV70) is a compact luxury D-segment crossover SUV manufactured by Korean luxury automaker Genesis, a luxury vehicle division of Hyundai. Internally codenamed JK1, it is the second SUV model from the brand after the mid-size GV80.

Get more information about: Genesis GV70

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Genesis        Model: GV70
Price: $37,333        Mileage: 25,559 mi.


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2. **Jeep Wrangler**

Now, here’s a funny one. The Jeep Wrangler, an undisputed icon of off-roading, is a vehicle that constantly gets a wide mix of critical feedback. Some reviewers might grumble about its road manners or interior refinements, but that doesn’t seem to deter its legion of fans. People simply can’t seem to get enough of these rugged 4×4 boxes, regardless of what the critics say. It’s a testament to the power of a legendary nameplate and a truly unique driving proposition.

For years, Jeeps were known as relatively inexpensive, no-nonsense 4x4s, the go-to for enthusiasts who loved to get dirty. That perception, however, seems to have gone by the wayside with the current generation. These days, a Wrangler is a decidedly expensive SUV even before the dealership starts piling on the “market adjustments.” Adding those markups makes them truly hard to stomach, especially when you factor in those mixed reviews that highlight its quirks.

So, what are buyers actually paying for this legend? The Jeep Wrangler’s average MSRP clocks in at $35,827. But in the real world, the average price people are actually parting with their hard-earned cash for is $44,396. That’s a chunky 23.9% increase over MSRP. It goes to show that while the market conditions are tough for buyers, the enthusiast base for the Wrangler is apparently willing to absorb almost any hit to get their hands on one.


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Mercedes-Benz GLB
File:2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 200 AMG Line Premium 2.0 Front.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

3. **Mercedes-Benz GLB**

This popular little luxury SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLB, might not be the most standout or flashy model on the market. It’s not a supercar, nor is it a brutish off-roader designed for extreme terrain. Yet, despite its more subdued persona, people seem remarkably willing to pay a hefty premium for them. It’s a fascinating example of how brand prestige and perceived value can drive prices sky-high, even for a vehicle that doesn’t necessarily scream “exclusivity.”

Part of the GLB’s allure, and thus its susceptibility to markups, likely comes from its compact luxury SUV positioning. This segment has been booming, with consumers drawn to the blend of SUV practicality, premium badge appeal, and a more manageable size for urban environments. The Mercedes-Benz star on the grille alone carries significant weight, signaling quality, comfort, and a certain lifestyle that many aspire to. These attributes often translate directly into higher willingness-to-pay.

And the numbers don’t lie. The Mercedes-Benz GLB’s average MSRP is listed at $41,061. Yet, the price tag you’re more likely to see when you walk onto a dealership lot, or at least the average price people are actually paying, is $50,542. That’s a significant 22.9% increase over the suggested retail price. It clearly demonstrates that even for a ‘little’ luxury SUV, the market can be surprisingly unforgiving for those hoping to pay sticker price.


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Porsche Taycan
Porsche Taycan Turbo S” by rvandermaar is licensed under CC BY 2.0

4. **Porsche Taycan**

Alright, let’s talk about the Porsche Taycan – and what a machine it is! This, my friends, is arguably the most exciting electric vehicle on the market right now. It wasn’t just another EV; it was one of the very first *proper* performance cars to jump into the electric game, proving that going green didn’t mean sacrificing soul-stirring speed and incredible driving dynamics. Porsche truly outdid themselves with this car, meticulously crafting an EV that feels every bit a Porsche.

Making people genuinely excited about electric vehicles was no small task, especially when it came to convincing performance enthusiasts. The Taycan played an absolutely integral part in that paradigm shift, showcasing that electrifying a car could enhance, rather than detract from, the driving experience. Its phenomenal acceleration, razor-sharp handling, and stunning aesthetics quickly captured the imaginations of critics and buyers alike. This isn’t just an EV; it’s a statement.

Given its groundbreaking performance and undeniable desirability, it’s no surprise that dealers are seeing dollar signs when a Taycan rolls onto the lot. With an average MSRP of $100,169, you’re already talking about serious money. But brace yourselves: the average price people are actually paying is a mind-blowing $122,940! That’s a 22.7% increase over MSRP, a premium of nearly a quarter of its original price. For a car that costs six figures, an additional twenty-two thousand dollars is a pretty brutal pill to swallow, even for Porsche fanatics.

Car Model Information: 2022 Porsche Taycan Base (A2)
Name: Porsche Taycan
ModelCode: Type 9J1
Manufacturer: Porsche
Production: 2019–present
Assembly: Stuttgart
Designer: Emiel Burki
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile),shooting brake
Platform: Volkswagen Group MSB platform#J1 Platform Models
Engine: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive
Transmission: 1-speed direct-drive (front 8.05:1),2-speed automatic (rear; 16:1 and 8.05:1)
Battery: lithium-ion battery,lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: Direct current,Direct current,Alternating current,Alternating current
Length: Convert
Wheelbase: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
Related: Audi e-tron GT
Sp: uk
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from January 2025
Summary: The Porsche Taycan is a battery electric luxury sports sedan and shooting brake car produced by German automobile manufacturer Porsche. The concept version of the Taycan named the Porsche Mission E, debuted at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Four years later, the production Taycan was revealed at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. As Porsche’s first series production electric car, it is sold in several variants at different performance levels, and may spawn further derivatives in future models. It is built on the J1 electric car platform shared with the similarly shaped Audi e-tron GT. The name “Taycan” (/taɪ-kan/) is a reference to the steed on the coat of arms of the city of Stuttgart, found on the Porsche crest. In Turkish, tay means colt or young horse, and can means lively. The “Turbo” name used in the higher trims, being electrically powered, does not mean to have turbochargers, but to have “increased power”.

Get more information about: Porsche Taycan

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Porsche        Model: Taycan
Price: $54,888        Mileage: 48,120 mi.


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5. **Jeep Wrangler Unlimited**

It’s time to revisit our old friend, the Wrangler, specifically its four-door variant, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. There’s no denying it: the Wrangler, in any form, is a true off-roading icon. Its heritage is legendary, its capability is well-known, and its rugged appeal is undeniable. However, this current generation of Jeeps can be quite confusing, especially for those of us who have been in the Jeep game for years, watching the brand evolve.

As we touched on earlier, Jeeps spent the majority of their lifetime as relatively inexpensive, utilitarian 4x4s made primarily for enthusiasts who valued function over frills. They were the accessible, go-anywhere machines. These days, however, they’ve transformed into rather expensive SUVs, pushing well into premium territory. This shift in positioning, coupled with the mixed reviews from critics who often point out their less-than-refined on-road manners, makes these current markups even harder to digest.

Despite the critics and the ever-climbing price tags, the demand for the Wrangler Unlimited remains incredibly strong. Consumers are still willing to pay a premium for that iconic Jeep look and off-road prowess. The average MSRP for the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is $45,386. But guess what? The average price people are actually paying jumps to $55,347. That’s a 21.9% increase over MSRP. It proves that a loyal fanbase and strong brand identity can still command significant markups, even when the price tag starts to feel a little disconnected from the vehicle’s roots.

Navigating the murky waters of new car purchases in today’s market often feels like a full-contact sport, and unfortunately, the ridiculous markups aren’t confined to just a handful of models. As we pull back the curtain on this dealership-driven premium parade, we’re diving deeper into five more high-demand vehicles that are still commanding outrageous sums, proving that if you want the hot ticket item, you’d better be ready to pay a king’s ransom. From spirited performance sedans to surprisingly coveted hybrids, the story remains the same: demand outstrips supply, and your wallet takes the hit.

Car Model Information: 2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T
Name: Jeep Wrangler
Caption: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Sahara edition
Manufacturer: Jeep
Class: Compact SUV
Production: 1986–present
Predecessor: Jeep CJ
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Related: AIL Storm
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Jeep Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs manufactured by Jeep since 1986, and currently in its fourth generation. The Wrangler JL, the most recent generation, was unveiled in late 2017 and is produced at Jeep’s Toledo Complex. The Wrangler is a direct progression from the World War II Jeep, through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) produced by Willys, Kaiser-Jeep, and American Motors Corporation (AMC) from the mid-1940s through the 1980s. Although neither AMC nor Chrysler (after it purchased AMC in 1987) have claimed that the Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original military model — both the CJ Jeeps and the conceptually consistent Wrangler, with their solid axles and open top, have been called the Jeep model as central to Jeep’s brand identity as the rear-engine 911 is to Porsche. Similar to the Willys MB and the CJ Jeeps before it, all Wrangler models continue to use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windshield, and can be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. However, the Wrangler series was specifically redesigned to be safer and more comfortable on-road, to attract more daily drivers, by upgrading its suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ line. The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and anti-roll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of the previous leaf springs. From 2004 on, the Wrangler has been complemented with long-wheelbase versions, called Wrangler Unlimited. 2004-2006 models were longer versions with 2 doors. In 2004, only automatic transmission-equipped “Unlimited” versions were sold. In 2005, both an automatic and manual 6-speed (NSG-370) were offered. Since 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers were four-door models, offering over 20 in (508 mm) more room. By mid-2017, the four-door models represented three-quarters of all new Wranglers on the market.

Get more information about: Jeep Wrangler

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Jeep        Model: Wrangler Unlimited
Price: $63,683        Mileage: 5,413 mi.


Read more about: Understanding Longevity: A Consumer Report on 10 SUVs Built to Last a Lifetime

Cadillac CT-4V
File:Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing WGI23 (Rear) 01.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

6. **Cadillac CT-4V**

Ah, the Cadillac CT-4V. This is one of those cars that makes you scratch your head a little, but in the best possible way. It’s this peppy, slightly strange little Cadillac that, despite its quirks, has absolutely captured the hearts—and wallets—of buyers. It’s a semi-luxury sports sedan that promises performance without the full-blown Blackwing madness, carving out its own niche in a crowded market.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting: this lively sedan pumps out a snappy 325 horsepower from its base engine, which, believe it or not, is shared with the robust Chevy Silverado. Talk about unexpected powertrain siblings! Never mind the strangeness of that combination; the fact is, the dealers know exactly what they have on their hands. With demand for a spirited, accessible Cadillac, they seem to have buyers firmly over a barrel, ready to extract every last cent.

And extract they do. While the Cadillac CT-4V’s average MSRP sits at a respectable $57,737, the average price people are actually forking over is a hefty $69,904. That’s not a rounding error, folks; that’s a whopping 21.1% increase over the suggested retail price. It just goes to show that even for a model with a somewhat confusing identity, desirability trumps logic when it comes to dealer markups.

The Genesis of a Diamond Magnate: Education and Early Career
GENESIS Automotive News Article and Press Releases | GENESIS Middle East & Africa, Photo by genesis.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

7. **Genesis GV80**

Moving up the luxury ladder, we encounter the Genesis GV80, the flagship SUV from Hyundai’s increasingly impressive luxury wing. Make no mistake, this is a proper fancy ride, exuding an air of sophistication and high-end craftsmanship that genuinely challenges established European luxury marques. It’s a bold statement from Genesis, and it’s clearly resonating with discerning buyers looking for something a bit different.

As we previously touched upon, the GV80 received an unexpected, albeit unfortunate, burst of pop-culture notoriety when golf legend Tiger Woods famously crashed his. The remarkable takeaway, and a testament to the vehicle’s structural integrity, was that Woods walked away with relatively minor injuries, all things considered. This high-profile incident inadvertently gifted the GV80 plenty of “street cred,” highlighting its robust safety features and further solidifying the brand’s image.

This blend of undeniable luxury, perceived safety, and a touch of celebrity intrigue has created a perfect storm of demand. Consequently, dealers aren’t shy about adding a premium to an already premium vehicle. The Genesis GV80’s average MSRP is listed at $56,388, but don’t expect to pay that. The average price buyers are actually shelling out is $68,240. That’s a solid 21% increase over MSRP, a clear indication that its blend of luxury and inadvertent fame comes with a significant upcharge.

Car Model Information: 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T
Name: Genesis GV80
ModelCode: JX1 (crossover),JX1C (coupe crossover)
Manufacturer: Genesis Motor
Production: 2020–present
ModelYears: 2021–present
Assembly: Ulsan
Designer: SangYup Lee
Class: Executive car,Crossover (automobile)
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai-Kia M platforms
Related: Genesis G80
Engine: unbulleted list
Powerout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Automatic transmission
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: unbulleted list
Width: cvt
Height: unbulleted list
Weight: unbulleted list
Sp: uk
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2020
Summary: The Genesis GV80 (Korean: 제네시스 GV80) is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury division.

Get more information about: Genesis GV80

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Genesis        Model: GV80
Price: $54,691        Mileage: 30,175 mi.


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Porsche Macan
Porsche Macan” by nakhon100 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

8. **Porsche Macan**

Next up, we have the Porsche Macan, and if you’re a fan of the Stuttgart crest, you know this one. This isn’t just *a* Porsche; it is, by a fair longshot, Porsche’s most popular model. The sheer volume of these sport luxury SUVs flying off the lots means dealers are practically rubbing their hands together, unable to resist pulling a little more bread out of every single sale. It’s the golden goose for many a Porsche dealership.

What makes the Macan so irresistible? It’s arguably the sweet spot between a purebred sports car and a practical luxury SUV. It offers that iconic Porsche driving dynamic, the precise steering, the engaging chassis, and the unmistakable badge, but with enough utility and comfort for daily life. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice performance when you need to haul groceries or the kids to soccer practice, making it a compelling package for a wide audience.

Given its widespread appeal and undeniable success, it’s no shock that the Macan commands a premium. The average MSRP for this sought-after SUV is $61,589. However, the price tag you’re more likely to encounter, and the average figure buyers are actually paying, leaps to $74,275. That translates to a very substantial 21% increase over MSRP, illustrating just how much leverage dealers have when a model is this popular and consistently in demand.

Car Model Information: 2021 Porsche Macan S
Name: Porsche Macan
Manufacturer: Porsche AG
Production: February 2014 – present
ModelYears: 2015–present
Class: Compact luxury crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Caption: 2024 Porsche Macan 4 Electric
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from September 2025
Summary: The Porsche Macan is a compact luxury crossover SUV (D-segment) produced by German manufacturer Porsche since 2014. It is the smaller SUV from Porsche below the Cayenne. The first-generation Macan entered production from February 2014 with petrol and diesel engine options. In 2024, Porsche released the second-generation Macan which is a battery electric vehicle built on the dedicated Premium Platform Electric (PPE) EV platform. The first-generation and second-generation Macan will be marketed side-by-side, providing multiple powertrain options for consumers. Since 2015, its first full year in the market, the Macan has been the best-selling Porsche model globally ahead of the larger Cayenne.

Get more information about: Porsche Macan

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Porsche        Model: Macan
Price: $42,594        Mileage: 39,704 mi.


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Cadillac Escalade with Super Cruise: Hands-Free Luxury Highway Travel
2025 Cadillac CT5 Specs and Features, Photo by motortrend.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

9. **Cadillac CT5**

If the Cadillac CT-4V was a peppy surprise, then the 2022 Cadillac CT5, especially in its more potent forms, was nothing short of a culmination. This machine represented Cadillac truly putting all its best foot forward, embodying the spirit and performance heritage that enthusiasts had been craving. It truly brought together the coolest parts of its predecessors, evolving into something special and highly desirable.

For the top-trim Blackwing model, Cadillac went absolutely wild, integrating features that would make any gearhead swoon: a six-speed manual transmission, for crying out loud, paired with a supercharged Corvette-based 6.2-liter V8 engine. This wasn’t just another sedan; it was a statement, a muscle car with a tuxedo. Car nerds, like us, have been worked up about this model for a minute, and for good reason—it’s a truly exhilarating package that few others can match.

With such a compelling and enthusiast-focused offering, it’s no surprise that the CT5, particularly the high-performance variants, is absolutely ripe for dealer markups. When you combine limited availability with an unbridled passion from a dedicated fanbase, dealerships see an open invitation to add those “market adjustments.” The demand for this level of American performance, especially with a manual gearbox, is simply through the roof.

So, what’s the damage? The Cadillac CT5’s average MSRP is $41,870. But if you want to get your hands on one of these beasts, be prepared to dig deeper, as the average price people are actually paying climbs to $50,383. That’s a 20.3% increase over MSRP, a significant premium that speaks volumes about its desirability and the current state of the new car market.

Car Model Information: 2023 Cadillac CT5 Luxury
Name: Cadillac CT5
Caption: 2024 CT5-V
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: November 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan,SAIC-GM
Designer: Josh Thurber,
Class: Mid-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation),Cadillac CT4
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,FMR layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission,Ford-GM 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Abbr: on (Luxury RWD)
Length: {{convert,193.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 74.1 in
Height: {{convert,57.2,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 3660 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac CTS
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cadillac vehicles
Summary: The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS.

Get more information about: Cadillac CT5

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Cadillac        Model: CT5
Price: $29,777        Mileage: 29,594 mi.


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Lexus RX350h
File:Lexus RX 350h (AALH10-AALH15) IMG 8880.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

10. **Lexus RX350h**

Finally, we arrive at the Lexus RX350h, a model that often sits in a somewhat strange middle ground within the Lexus SUV lineup. On one side, you have the sportier UX and NX models; on the other, the more robust, traditional 4x4s like the LX and GX. Lexus chose to plop the RX right between these two extremes, leading some to ponder whether it was a ‘Goldilocks’ model, just right, or perhaps an awkward middle ground found lacking in distinct character.

However, the current market markups tell a very clear story: the former is closer to the truth. The RX350h, as a hybrid, has found its stride, especially in a world grappling with fluctuating fuel prices. Its blend of Lexus reliability, luxurious comfort, and improved fuel efficiency positions it perfectly for buyers who want an upscale SUV without the constant guilt at the pump. It turns out, that middle ground is exactly what a lot of people are looking for.

And because so many people are looking for it, dealers are more than happy to oblige with a higher price tag. The Lexus RX350h’s average MSRP is $49,339. Yet, the average price people are actually paying for this popular hybrid SUV is $59,347. That’s a 20.3% increase over MSRP, proving that practical luxury and fuel efficiency are highly valued commodities in today’s car-buying landscape. The market isn’t just about raw power or extreme off-roading; sometimes, being ‘just right’ is enough to command a serious premium.

So there you have it, folks. From the sleek lines of luxury SUVs to the rugged charm of off-road legends and the unexpected appeal of performance sedans and efficient hybrids, the story is clear: dealerships are still operating in a sellers’ paradise. While the new car supply chain might be on the mend, the days of snagging a deal below MSRP feel like a distant memory for these highly coveted models. If you’re in the market for one of these hot tickets, broaden your search, prepare for some serious negotiation, and maybe, just maybe, consider ordering directly from the manufacturer if you can to bypass some of this markup madness. Otherwise, be ready to pay up, because these insane premiums aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

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