In the second installment of exclusive AuctionNet Wholesale Price and Forecast Data provided by NADA Used Car Guide to Auto Remarketing, wholesale prices have remained stable this week, but again, the influence of rising fuel prices is still apparent, the organization stressed.

For example, compact car segment wholesale prices are expected to rise 2.2 percent or $250 over the course of this week, showing an increased interest in more fuel-efficient units as the Energy Information Administration reported the average price of regular grade gasoline (all formulations) held steady at $3.94 per gallon for the first time since January last week.

Further illustrating this point, NADA UCG officials shared that the average rate of growth for compact cars continues to lead other segments due to their superior fuel efficiency.  

As interest in gas sippers expands, large SUV and large pickup prices have continued to lag other segments. 

Prices for large SUVs and large pickups are expected to fall slightly this week, NADA UCG noted.

Large SUVs are expected to drop 1 percent or an average of $250, followed closely by large pickups at 0.8 percent or an average of $150, the organization explained.

On the other hand, midsize van prices are expected to rise by 2.1 percent or $325 over the course of the current week, a trend brought on by the “imprending summer travel season,” NADA UCG noted.   

Furthermore, AuctionNet midsize van volume through the first quarter has fallen by 25 percent, compared to last year, which is also applying “strong upward pressure” to used midsize van prices. 

Lastly, NADA UCG reported that midsize car prices are also expected to rise, predicted to climb by 1.6 percent. Relative to the 4-week average, prices for the segment are up by 2.5 percent, NADA UCG concluded.

4- and 2-week AuctionNet wholesale average prices are created by collecting all AuctionNet records for vehicles up to five years of age for a specified period of time.  Prices are then adjusted for changes in mileage and mix.

Current week prices are forecasted based on NADA’s proprietary used vehicle value model which includes assumptions for new vehicle prices, used vehicle supply, gasoline prices, and other economic factors.