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Automotive Marketing Stats 2026: Key Statistics for 2026

Automotive marketing is being transformed by the shift to online research and digital retailing. These statistics reveal how car brands and dealers are adapting their marketing strategies.

By ContentMation Team·Updated April 2026

Key Statistics

The average automotive dealership spends $685 per vehicle sold on marketing

Source: NADA (2025)

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92% of car buyers research online before visiting a dealership

Source: Google (2024)

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Digital channels now account for 62% of total automotive advertising spend

Source: eMarketer (2025)

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Video content influences 75% of auto shoppers in their purchase decision

Source: Google (2024)

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EV marketing spend grew 85% year-over-year across all major auto brands

Source: Kantar (2025)

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The average automotive customer visits 4.2 websites before purchasing

Source: Cox Automotive (2024)

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Key Takeaway

Online research now dominates the car buying journey, making digital presence essential for dealers and brands. Video content and EV-focused marketing represent the highest-growth areas in automotive advertising.

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