2015 U.S Automotive Sales Data & Reports Hub 

In 2015, the U.S. auto industry experienced several notable trends and shifts. 2015 was a banner year for U.S. auto sales. Automakers sold a record 17.5 million cars and trucks, surpassing the previous high set in 2000. This was attributed to various factors, including an improving economy, low unemployment rates, attractive financing deals, and low gas prices. There was a clear trend of consumers preferring light trucks (which include SUVs and pickups) over traditional passenger cars. The preference for larger vehicles was in part influenced by lower gas prices, making it more economical to run vehicles with generally lower fuel efficiency. Oil prices dropped significantly in 2015, leading to lower gas prices at the pump. This influenced buyer preferences, with many opting for larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles. 2015 was particularly notable for the growing dominance of SUVs. Compact and midsize SUVs became the choice for many families over traditional sedans. 2015 was also the year when the Volkswagen emissions scandal (often referred to as "Dieselgate") came to light. This had significant implications for the diesel vehicle market and affected perceptions of diesel cars, leading to increased scrutiny and skepticism about their environmental benefits. The U.S. economy showed consistent growth in 2015. The housing market recovery, an uptick in employment, and consumer confidence played a crucial role in driving auto sales.