If you’re car shopping in 2025, timing your purchase can save you thousands. But when exactly do new car models hit the lot? Whether you’re looking for the latest redesign or trying to score a deal on last year’s model, knowing when new model years arrive is key.
Let’s break down what you need to know in 2025.
Quick Answer: When Do New Car Models Come Out?
Most new car models arrive between July and October. Automakers often start announcing new models in the spring, but actual inventory availability ramps up closer to Labor Day.
However, 2025 is shaping up differently. Due to ongoing pricing uncertainty tied to U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles and components, automakers are delaying 2026 model rollouts more than usual. They’re waiting to decide if they need to raise prices, and if so, by how much.
Typical New Model Rollout Timeline
Here’s what the cycle usually looks like in a normal year:
| Month | What Happens |
| March–May | Automakers announce new models and redesigns |
| June–August | Early shipments of select models begin |
| September–October | Most new models arrive on lots |
| November–December | Outgoing model year clearance ramps up |
In most years, Labor Day weekend marks the transition point, with dealers juggling clearance deals on remaining inventory and early shipments of the next model year.
What’s Different in 2025?
In a word: uncertainty.
Thanks to new tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, automakers are facing higher costs — but they’re not sure how much of that to pass on to consumers. Instead of rushing to release 2026 models, many brands are delaying their rollouts as long as possible. This gives them time to assess:
- Consumer demand
- Tariff impacts
- Competitor pricing
That means in 2025, you’re likely to see 2026 models arrive later than usual, especially for import-heavy brands and luxury vehicles.
Why it matters: If you’re waiting for a 2026 redesign, be prepared for a later release date than in past years — and a possible price hike.
Why Buyers Should Pay Attention
Understanding new model release timing can help you:
Score a Deal on the Outgoing Model Year — When new models arrive, dealers are motivated to clear out last year’s inventory. That’s when you’ll find end-of-model-year discounts, often paired with special financing or cash bonuses.
Avoid Buying Right Before a Major Redesign — If a model is about to be refreshed or redesigned, buying the current version could mean more depreciation. (CarEdge depreciation rankings often show big dips for just-redesigned models.)
Plan Ahead for Limited Inventory — If you’re targeting a specific trim or color of a new model, knowing when it will actually arrive helps you get ahead of low inventory or long waitlists.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes — some brands release models earlier or on non-traditional schedules. For example:
- Tesla follows its own release rhythm entirely
- Subaru and Mazda sometimes launch new model years in early spring
- Luxury brands may prioritize global launch windows over traditional timelines
Always check with your local dealer or use a tool like CarEdge Car Search to track what’s in stock near you.
Bottom Line
In most years, new car models roll out between July and October, with peak availability around Labor Day. But in 2025, the timeline is shifting. Thanks to tariff-driven pricing uncertainty, many 2026 models will arrive later than usual, as automakers wait to see how much prices will rise.
If you’re eyeing a new car, keep this in mind:
- Looking for a deal? Shop outgoing 2025 models between August and December. This is when dealers are under pressure to clear inventory (especially if the next model year hasn’t arrived yet.)
- Waiting for a redesign? Expect delays and plan for potential price hikes on 2026 models.
Want to know which outgoing models are the most negotiable?
Use CarEdge Insights to identify the vehicles with the highest inventory levels and greatest negotiability in your area. These are the cars most likely to be discounted (often with some negotiation effort). CarEdge Insights is your toolkit to know exactly where the leverage is.
FAQ: New Car Model Release Timing
Q: When do new car models typically come out?
A: Most new car models are released between July and October, with the highest volume arriving around Labor Day. Automakers often announce new models in the spring, but dealer inventory builds closer to late summer and early fall.
Q: Why are 2026 models arriving later in 2025?
A: In 2025, automakers are delaying 2026 model rollouts due to uncertainty around U.S. auto tariffs. They’re waiting to decide whether to raise prices — and by how much — which is pushing back launch timelines.
Q: How can I get a good deal on the outgoing model year?
A: To find the best deals on outgoing models, shop between August and December when dealers are clearing 2025 inventory. Use tools like CarEdge Insights to spot the most negotiable cars on the lot.
Q: Should I wait for the new model or buy now?
A: If the model you want is getting a redesign, waiting might be worth it — but expect delays and higher prices for 2026 models. If you’re flexible, buying the current model year during clearance season could save you thousands.
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