On the Dash: New-vehicle sales are expected to reach a 16.3 million SAAR in August, matching July’s pace despite ongoing economic uncertainty. Cox Automotive expects August volume to fall 8.5% year over year to 1.35 million vehicles, largely because the month has fewer selling days. Affluent buyers with strong credit or cash reserves continue to support demand, giving dealers a more resilient customer base despite higher interest rates. August new-vehicle sales are on pace to match July’s performance, signaling continued resilience despite economic uncertainty, rising interest rates and ongoing trade disputes. Cox Automotive forecasts an August SAAR of 16.3 million vehicles, holding steady for the second consecutive month and landing…
