Why More Borrowers Are Refinancing Their Vehicles, and How Lenders Are Playing a Role in These Changes

  As vehicle prices and interest rates continue to evolve, both consumers and lenders are recalibrating their approaches to affordability and long-term sustainability. This shift has resulted in the subprime segment growing to its largest share of total finance market for subprime in the fourth quarter since 2021. According to Experian’s State of the Automotive Finance Market Report: Q4 2025, subprime borrowers accounted for 15.31% of total vehicle financing, an increase from 14.54% in Q4 2024. To understand why the subprime space is evolving, we took a deeper dive into the affordability picture and how changes in pricing and interest rates are influencing both consumer decisions and lender strategies. In Q4 2025, the average loan amount for a new vehicle increased $1,882 from the prior year to $43,582, and the average interest rate for a new vehicle went from 6.34% last year to 6.37% this quarter. As a result, the average monthly payment increased from $746 to $767 in the same time frame. On the used side, the average loan amount increased $872 year-over-year, reaching $27,528 in Q4 2025. However, despite the average interest rate declining from 11.63% to 11.26% during the same time, the average monthly payment grew $9 from last year to $537 this quarter. These changes are prompting thoughtful adjustments across the automotive ecosystem. Consumers are comparing financing options more carefully and adjusting loan terms when necessary to prioritize the cost of ownership. Lenders are also focusing more on payment flexibility and how long-term borrowers are performing as they leverage it for central pillars of strategies to stay ahead of the ever-evolving market. To learn more about automotive finance trends, view the full State of the Automotive Finance Market Report: Q4 2025 presentation on demand.

From the vehicles we drive to the way we purchase them, everything in the automotive industry is evolving as new technologies, shifting incentives, and changing consumer expectations continue to develop. As electrified vehicles continue to grow their presence on the road, Experian’s Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2025 took a deep dive into this segment and found that 5.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) and 11.7 million hybrids were in operation this quarter. Furthermore, data through the third quarter of this year found that 73.8% of EV owners returning to market replaced their EV with another EV and only 16.5% switched to a gas-powered vehicle. The significant EV loyalty among consumers signals that the ownership experience is delivering on core expectations. While some owners continued to opt for an EV because they’ve grown accustomed to certain conveniences such as charging stations at home or workplace to avoid traditional fueling and the perks of lower maintenance needs, others took advantage of the EV tax credits before they expired at the end of September. However, as these motivations shift, it will be important to monitor how the EV market unfolds over the next six months. Notably, 11.7% of gas-powered vehicle owners replaced their vehicle with a gas-hybrid vehicle this quarter, suggesting that hybrids are acting as an effective bridge toward deeper electrification. In fact, drivers may see hybrids as the ‘happy medium’ vehicle that offers improved fuel efficiency without requiring full reliance on charging infrastructure. Why this matters for the aftermarket As the majority of consumers replace their EVs with another one and some switch their gas-powered vehicle for an electrified one, these trends signal potential long-term commitment to alternative fuel segments. This is important to monitor for aftermarket professionals as the EV service volume continues to grow, requiring different parts and technician training. With consumers increasingly turning to the aftermarket for cost-effective support, professionals who adapt to diverse powertrains will be best positioned to navigate this evolving wave of post-warranty demand. To learn more about EVs and other vehicle market trends, view the full Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2025 presentation on demand.

The pickup truck market is shifting gears, and hybrids are emerging as a driving force behind the change. As more drivers prioritize fuel efficiency while still expecting towing power, hybrid models are stepping in to redefine the segment. According to Experian’s Automotive Consumer Trends Report: Q3 2025, gas-hybrid and plug-in hybrid pickup trucks accounted for nearly one-in-five new light-duty trucks sold, coming in at 17.8% this quarter. This signals a major shift in a historically ICE-dominated category. Hybrids are likely gaining traction because they offer the best of both worlds. While their systems provide fuel efficiency by combining gas or diesel engines with electric motors to avoid range anxiety, they’re also meeting most towing and hauling requirements that accompany the traditional gas-powered trucks. Overall pickup truck market trends fueling hybrid growth When looking at the market from a broader perspective, there were 55.3 million light-duty trucks on U.S. roads in the third quarter of 2025, representing 20.10% of all vehicles in operation. Furthermore, as of Q3 2025, 34% of U.S. households with one-or-more vehicles also own a light-duty pickup truck, giving this segment a strong foothold in transportation options. The widespread presence underscores the pickup truck’s influence in the automotive industry as they set the pace for consumer expectations and steer market trends. The increased momentum for hybrid trucks can also help OEMs and dealers capitalize on growing their presence in an increasingly competitive space. It’s important for automotive professionals to consider aligning sales strategies with evolving buyer preference to elevate consumer engagement as this trend offers benefits today and even greater potential ahead. To learn more about pickup truck insights, view the full Automotive Consumer Trends Report: Q3 2025 presentation.