Consumers Pull Back, Wage Growth Trails Inflation, and Automakers Adapt

What happens when consumer spending slows, purchasing power comes under pressure, and automakers adjust their strategies to match a changing market?In this episode of The Auto Market Brief, Erin Keating and Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jeremy Robb break down the latest economic data, including consumer spending, wage growth, inflation, interest rates, and vehicle sales. While some indicators suggest consumers are becoming more cautious, the broader automotive market continues to show resilience amid changing economic conditions.Consumer spending is showing signs of slowingRecent spending data has softened, with retail sales coming in below expectations and consumer spending growth turning negative year over year, raising new questions about the strength of consumer demand.Purchasing power remains under pressureWage growth has remained below inflation for four consecutive months, reducing purchasing power and creating additional challenges for consumers already facing elevated borrowing costs and affordability concerns.Automakers rethink product, production, and growth strategiesAutomakers continue to adjust their product, manufacturing, and sourcing strategies as tariffs, trade policy discussions, and supply chain considerations play an increasingly important role in long-term planning.The conversation also covers inventory trends, used-vehicle values, trade policy developments, manufacturing decisions, and how brands are rethinking growth opportunities in an increasingly dynamic market.The Auto Market Brief delivers timely data, clear context, and practical insight to help industry leaders make smarter decisions—what's happening now, and what's coming next.The Auto Market Brief is powered by Cox Automotive. For more industry insights and expert perspectives, visit our Insights Hub at Cox Automotive Insights.