GAINESVILLE, Ga. -

Because so many new midsize cars are being introduced for 2013, Black Book discovered the development is placing larger-than-normal downward pricing pressure on late-model used models in the segment.

Managing editor Ricky Beggs noted that wholesale price averages for these units have dropped an average of 1.0 percent each week during the past few months. Beggs contends that typical price activity should result in an average price drop of about 1.5 percent monthly.

Beggs pointed out that four of the six major automakers are introducing major redesigns to their flagship midsize sedans this fall, including the Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion. The Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry came out with new introductions last year.

Black Book mentioned that a laundry list of new features will highlight the introductions such as new technology, sleek, new designs, high-definition sound systems, touchscreen and voice-enabled entertainment and navigation systems.

Beggs projected that these features will blur the line between midsize sedans and luxury-level cars.

“The redesigned midsize cars will have a prolonged impact on prices for late-model used cars in the same segment,” Beggs surmised.

“Traditional used-car shoppers of midsized cars will instead take a closer look at the new models that come with a bevy of exciting new designs and technology features, as well as better fuel economy,” he added.