How inflation and higher interest rates have reshaped car buying for many Americans

2015 Dodge Challenger 60k miles 30 mpg V6 and paid for. No electric car and Consumer Reports gave it a 70. Car has been trouble free except for $200 every 3 years for a car battery.

Unfortunately, Americans no longer practice delayed gratification. Never put a luxury item or non-revenue producing depreciating asset on credit. If you don't have the cash in an account or portfolio, you don't need a new car. You can do a lot of repairs for the cost of a new car loan.

I bought a brand new Buick in 2020. I don't expect to buy another new one any time soon!