If you are reading this in 2026 and feel like a brand-new car (even an entry-level model) is financially unobtainable, you are not alone. Data from Cox Automotive shows that over 40% of new vehicles are purchased by people earning over $150,000; conversely, less than 26% are bought by people earning under $75,000 per year. In 2019, the first number was 29% and the second number was 37%. It's not just in your head; there is an affordability crisis happening.