November 26, 2007 (The Editor’s Desk is updated each business day.)

Value of quality changes for 2008 passenger cars and light trucks

The retail equivalent value of quality changes for the 2008 model year domestic passenger cars averaged $170.17. This was less than the average $64.12 increase in manufacturer's suggested list prices.

[Chart data—TXT]

The value of quality changes for passenger cars breaks down as follows: $82.39 for safety improvements such as changes to tire pressure monitor sensors and airbag systems; $87.78 for other quality changes such as changes in audio systems and changes in levels of standard or optional equipment.

The retail equivalent value of quality changes for the 2008 model year domestic light trucks averaged $276.92. The average increase in manufacturer's suggested list prices was $342.60.

The $276.92 value breaks down as follows: $126.69 for safety improvements such as stability control and airbag systems; $150.23 for other quality changes such as changes to audio systems, theft protection, and changes in levels of standard or optional equipment.

These data are from the BLS Producer Price Index program. Learn more in "Report on Quality Changes for 2008 Model Vehicles," news release USDL 07-1787 (PDF 20K).