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Used Vehicle Prices Are Finally Starting to Cool

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Used-vehicle price increases are slowing in the U.S., but electric vehicles continue to outperform gasoline cars as more budget-conscious buyers turn to older models.

The used car prices market is finally showing signs of cooling in the United States. According to the latest Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index, wholesale used-vehicle values were nearly flat in August, rising just 0.4% from a year earlier. The seasonally adjusted average price reached $19,042, only $68 higher than in August 2025. At the same time, Cox Automotive says more budget-conscious shoppers are looking beyond newer used vehicles and considering cars that are nine or even 10 years old.

Older Cars Are Attracting Budget-Minded Buyers

The shift toward older vehicles highlights how strongly affordability is influencing the used-car market. Jeremy Robb, chief economist at Cox Automotive, says shoppers are increasingly looking for lower-cost transportation as they compare the price of used vehicles with expensive new models.

Budget-conscious U.S. shoppers are increasingly considering older used vehicles as prices remain elevated.

The overall Manheim index reached 208.2 in August. While that is only slightly higher than last year, the market is moving in different directions depending on the powertrain. That difference is especially noticeable when comparing electric vehicles with gasoline-powered cars.

Used EV Values Are Still Rising

Electric vehicles remain the strongest performers in the wholesale market. Cox Automotive’s separate EV index rose 4.5% year over year in August, reaching 201.8. By comparison, the non-EV index fell 0.9% to 148.4.

The gain is smaller than earlier in the year. In June, the EV index was up 12% from a year earlier. Even so, used EV values have continued to show relative strength despite declining over the past two months.

Used EV values increased 4.5% year over year in August, outperforming non-EV vehicles.

Higher gasoline prices and the end of the federal $7,500 new-EV tax credit may be helping support demand for used electric vehicles. Buyers who find new EVs too expensive may instead look at used models as a way to enter the market at a lower price.

A Wave of Off-Lease EVs Is Coming

The bigger question is what happens when more leased EVs return to the used market. Cox Automotive estimates that about 301,000 EV leases will mature in 2026, nearly three times the number recorded in 2025.

That number is expected to rise sharply in 2027. Total lease maturities could reach 3.1 million next year, including an estimated 588,688 off-lease EVs. That influx could create much more inventory and put pressure on used EV prices.

Nearly 589,000 EVs are expected to return from leases in 2027, creating a much larger supply of used electric vehicles.

For buyers, the used-car market is becoming increasingly divided. Older gasoline vehicles are attracting shoppers who prioritize affordability, while used EVs are still holding their value better than non-EVs. The next major test will come in 2027, when the growing supply of off-lease electric vehicles could determine whether today’s strong EV values can continue.

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Lucid Reports 3,806 Deliveries in Q3 2026

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Lucid delivered 3,806 vehicles in the third quarter of 2026 as Gravity demand regained momentum and the company continued reducing inventory.

Lucid has reported 2,954 vehicles produced and 3,806 vehicles delivered during the third quarter of 2026, highlighting the company’s ongoing effort to reduce existing inventory while aligning production with near-term demand.

Deliveries exceeded production by 852 vehicles during the quarter. Lucid says the difference reflects its previously announced inventory-reduction strategy as part of an operating reset targeting $1.4 billion in cash flow improvements during 2026.

Lucid says demand for the Gravity continued to regain momentum during the third quarter.

Lucid Delivered More Vehicles Than It Produced

The gap between production and deliveries was one of the most important aspects of Lucid’s third-quarter update.

The company produced 2,954 vehicles while delivering 3,806 vehicles to customers. That means Lucid delivered more vehicles than it built during the quarter as it continued converting existing inventory into customer deliveries.

The strategy is part of a broader operating reset announced by the company. Lucid is attempting to improve cash flow while bringing production levels closer to current demand.

Production declined sequentially during the quarter. Lucid attributed the change to the previously announced elimination of a second production shift at AMP-1 in June.

Gravity Demand Continues to Recover

Lucid also highlighted improving momentum for the Lucid Gravity, its electric SUV.

The company said demand for the Gravity continued to regain momentum during the third quarter. The model is an important part of Lucid’s efforts to expand beyond its electric sedan lineup.

Higher deliveries combined with inventory reduction allowed Lucid to move existing vehicles to customers while continuing to adjust manufacturing levels.

The Lucid Gravity is becoming an increasingly important part of the company’s vehicle lineup.

Lucid Continues Its Operating Reset

Lucid’s latest production strategy is focused on matching manufacturing output with near-term demand.

The reduction in production follows the company’s decision to eliminate a second shift at its AMP-1 facility in June. At the same time, deliveries remained above production as Lucid worked through vehicles already in inventory.

The company has previously targeted $1.4 billion in cash flow improvements during 2026 as part of its operating reset.

The third-quarter production and delivery figures provide an early indication of how that strategy is affecting vehicle volumes. However, they do not represent the company’s complete financial performance.

Third-Quarter Earnings Are Coming November 9

Lucid will release its full third-quarter 2026 financial results on November 9, 2026.

The company will also host an earnings call to discuss its financial performance and provide an update on its key priorities.

Lucid’s production and delivery figures represent only one measure of its operating performance. Net income, cash flow and other financial results will be announced with the full quarterly report.

The company is also giving shareholders an opportunity to submit and upvote questions ahead of the earnings call.

Starting October 23 at 2:30 p.m. PT / 5:30 p.m. ET, shareholders can submit questions through Lucid’s investor Q&A platform. The platform will remain open until November 6 at 2:30 p.m. PT / 5:30 p.m. ET.

Lucid is adjusting production levels as part of its broader operating reset.

Lucid’s Next Results Will Provide a Bigger Picture

The third-quarter figures show Lucid continuing to balance production, inventory and customer deliveries.

With 3,806 deliveries compared with 2,954 vehicles produced, the company reduced existing inventory during the quarter while lowering production in response to near-term demand.

The improving momentum of the Gravity will also be an important factor to watch as Lucid works to expand its customer base.

The next major update will arrive on November 9, when Lucid reports its complete third-quarter financial results and discusses the progress of its operating priorities.

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Polestar Nears U.S. Sellout as 2027 Ban Looms

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Polestar is nearing a sellout of its remaining 2026 vehicles in the U.S. as new rules threaten to block sales of its 2027 models.

Polestar is rapidly clearing its remaining 2026 model-year vehicles in the United States as the Swedish electric-car brand prepares for a major change in its U.S. business.

The automaker recorded 14,371 global sales in the third quarter, a slight increase from the 14,222 vehicles delivered during the same period a year earlier. However, the U.S. market has become particularly important as Polestar approaches the end of its current inventory.

Polestar is focusing on selling its remaining 2026 vehicles in the United States before the new restrictions take effect.

Polestar U.S. Sales More Than Doubled

Polestar sold approximately 2,160 vehicles in the U.S. during the third quarter, compared with 966 units during the same period last year.

That represents a substantial increase as the company works through its remaining 2026 inventory.

Outside the United States, however, retail sales declined by 8% during the quarter. The contrast highlights the importance of the current U.S. sales push as Polestar prepares for the restrictions affecting its next model year.

The company’s remaining U.S. inventory consists primarily of Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 vehicles.

2027 Polestar Sales Face a Major U.S. Roadblock

Polestar will not be able to sell new 2027 model-year vehicles in the United States under new Commerce Department rules targeting China-linked vehicles equipped with connected-vehicle technology.

The restrictions represent a major challenge for Polestar because the company is majority-owned by China’s Geely Holding.

For the U.S. market, the immediate strategy is therefore straightforward: sell the remaining 2026 vehicles while maintaining support for customers who already own Polestar models.

Polestar plans to continue operating its U.S. service network and used-vehicle business, even after new-vehicle sales are affected.

The Polestar 4 is among the vehicles being sold from existing U.S. inventory.

Polestar Is Shifting Its Focus Toward Europe

With the U.S. market becoming more difficult, Polestar is placing greater emphasis on Europe.

The company plans to produce its upcoming Polestar 7 compact SUV at a Volvo Cars factory in Slovakia. The model is expected to become an important part of the brand’s European strategy.

Polestar has also started customer deliveries of the Polestar 5, its large electric performance model.

Meanwhile, Polestar 4 vehicles have reached European ports and are being distributed to retailers.

European sales were weaker during the latest quarter, but the company expects demand to improve as new models reach customers.

Polestar 5 Gains Interest in Europe

The Polestar 5 is already attracting strong interest in the United Kingdom, while Germany and Scandinavian markets are also showing encouraging demand.

The model gives Polestar another opportunity to strengthen its position in Europe’s premium electric-vehicle market.

The company’s European strategy will become increasingly important if U.S. restrictions prevent the introduction of new Polestar vehicles from the 2027 model year.

The Polestar 5 is expanding the brand’s presence in Europe’s premium electric-car market.

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BMW iX3 M60 Packs 603 HP and M Performance Tech

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BMW’s new iX3 M60 delivers 603 horsepower, 645 lb-ft of torque and a 3.9-second 0-62 mph time, backed by serious M Performance hardware.

BMW is already pushing the performance envelope with its new electric SUV. The 2027 BMW iX3 M60 arrives as the range-topping version of the Neue Klasse-based iX3, combining 603 horsepower with a heavily upgraded chassis and BMW’s latest electric-drive technology.

Production is scheduled to begin in spring 2027, while U.S. orders are expected to open at the end of January. Pricing and the official EPA range have not yet been announced.

The BMW iX3 M60 becomes the performance flagship of the new electric SUV lineup.

The BMW iX3 M60 Delivers 603 HP

The iX3 M60 is not a full BMW M model. Instead, it sits within BMW’s M Performance range. That distinction does not stop it from receiving substantial performance hardware.

The SUV uses BMW’s sixth-generation M eDrive system, with one electric motor powering each axle. The rear motor is a new electrically excited synchronous unit paired with a more powerful 420-amp inverter.

The result is 603 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque.

The iX3 M60 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 149 mph.

SpecificationBMW iX3 M60
Power603 hp
Torque645 lb-ft
0-62 mph3.9 seconds
Top speed149 mph
Usable battery112.2 kWh

BMW has not yet released an official EPA range figure for the M60. The standard iX3 can travel up to 434 miles in the U.S., so the performance model is expected to deliver somewhat less range.

BMW Gives the M60 Faster Vehicle Control

Performance is not limited to the electric motors. BMW has equipped the iX3 M60 with its new Heart of Joy processor, which handles driving-related inputs up to 10 times faster than the systems used in previous-generation vehicles.

The processor works with BMW M Dynamic Performance Control to coordinate the powertrain, steering, braking and regenerative braking systems.

The result is designed to make the SUV respond more quickly to driver inputs while maintaining precise control of its electric power delivery.

The M60 also gets dedicated Boost Mode and M Mode controls on the steering wheel. Two exclusive My Modes, called M Sport and M Sport Plus, allow drivers to adjust the powertrain, chassis and steering for increasingly aggressive responses.

The M60 combines BMW’s latest digital cockpit with dedicated performance controls.

Regenerative Braking Does More of the Work

BMW has also focused on how the iX3 M60 slows down. Its regenerative braking system can handle nearly all everyday deceleration, reducing the need to rely on conventional friction brakes.

The system includes a Soft Stop function that uses regenerative braking to bring the SUV to a smooth stop.

That approach can make everyday driving feel more seamless while maximizing the energy recovered by the electric powertrain.

The M60 Gets a Serious Chassis Upgrade

The BMW iX3 M60 receives significantly more than cosmetic changes. Its chassis includes Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers, variable-ratio M Sport steering and an electronically controlled M Sport differential at the rear axle.

BMW has also developed model-specific springs and dampers. Additional front-end bracing and revised anti-roll-bar links are designed to improve steering precision and reduce body roll.

The standard performance hardware includes:

  • Adaptive M Suspension
  • Electronically controlled dampers
  • Variable-ratio M Sport steering
  • Electronically controlled M Sport differential
  • Model-specific springs and dampers
  • Revised front-axle anti-roll-bar links
  • Additional front-end bracing
  • 21-inch M alloy wheels

M Sport brakes with red or blue calipers are available as an option. BMW also offers model-specific 21-inch performance tires, while 22-inch M aerodynamic wheels are exclusive to the M Performance version.

The iX3 M60 uses dedicated M Performance hardware to give the electric SUV a sharper character.

M Performance Styling Sets the M60 Apart

BMW has made several exterior changes to distinguish the M60 from other iX3 versions.

The model comes standard with the M Sport package and BMW Iconic Glow exterior lighting. Optional M Yellow Lights add another distinctive detail inspired by BMW’s motorsport heritage.

The front lighting signature incorporates three elements inspired by the familiar M stripes, while an illuminated M logo adds another visual cue.

The M60 also features dedicated M mirror caps, a black rear diffuser and standard 21-inch wheels. Larger 22-inch wheels are available for buyers seeking an even more aggressive appearance.

Inside, the iX3 M60 uses BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive interface and Operating System X. A 17.9-inch central display angles toward the driver, while BMW Panoramic Vision projects information across the lower section of the windshield.

The M Sport steering wheel features a red 12 o’clock marker and dedicated Boost and M Mode controls.

The Cabin Gets M-Specific Details

BMW offers optional M Sport seats with aggressive side bolsters, 10-way power adjustment, lumbar support, adjustable thigh support, backrest-width adjustment and massage functionality.

An illuminated M logo is integrated into the headrests.

The standard M interior uses black Veganza upholstery with M PerformTex. Buyers can also choose more premium Contemporary and BMW Individual interior configurations.

A standard 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system produces 430 watts and supports Dolby Atmos.

BMW iX3 M60 Production Starts in 2027

The 2027 BMW iX3 M60 combines high electric output with a chassis designed to deliver a more engaging driving experience.

Its 603 hp and 645 lb-ft put it firmly into high-performance electric SUV territory, while Adaptive M Suspension, an electronically controlled differential and BMW’s latest control technology give the M60 hardware beyond its straight-line acceleration.

Production begins in spring 2027, with U.S. orders scheduled to open at the end of January.

BMW has not yet revealed U.S. pricing or the official EPA range. Those figures will determine how competitive the iX3 M60 becomes when it reaches the market.

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