Hackers claim they stole buyer data from dealer software VinSolutions
A newly active group calling itself Scarlett Group said last Friday that it had taken customer records from VinSolutions, the customer management software made by Cox Automotive and used by about 7,000 US dealerships, CBT News reports. The group claims the files include Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and credit applications. A dark web monitoring service called the claims unverified.
Cox says it detected “suspicious activity” on VinSolutions and contained it quickly. It believes a limited group of dealers was affected, is working with outside experts to find out what data was involved, and will notify affected parties directly. Cox has not confirmed what, if anything, was taken.
What it means for owners: if you financed or traded in a car at a US dealer, watch for a breach letter from the dealer or Cox. Until it is clear what happened, it is reasonable to check your credit reports and consider a credit freeze, which is free with each of the three bureaus. Be wary of calls or emails that mention your recent car purchase and ask for personal details.
New car lots are fuller: 82 days of supply
In its September inventory report, published October 15, Cox Automotive counted 2.80 million new vehicles for sale, enough for 82 days at the current sales pace, up from 75 days in August. The average listing price was $49,726. Supply is very uneven between brands: Toyota had only 35 days and Lexus 41, while Jeep had 169 and Ram 152.
Show the data
| Brand | Days of supply |
|---|---|
| Jeep | 169 |
| Ram | 152 |
| Dodge | 149 |
| Buick | 124 |
| GMC | 106 |
| Ford | 101 |
| Subaru | 59 |
| Honda | 48 |
| Lexus | 41 |
| Toyota | 35 |
What it means for owners: where a brand has months of stock, buyers have room to negotiate, especially on outgoing model years. Toyota and Lexus shoppers should expect little discounting. Cheaper cars are scarcer: vehicles under $30,000 had 63 days of supply against 111 days for those over $80,000. Count financing too when you compare offers; see the true cost of owning a car.
Kia keeps 2027 EV6 prices unchanged, from $37,900
Kia has priced the 2027 EV6, a carryover model, the same as the 2026 version, Electrek reports: from $37,900 before the $1,545 destination fee for the Light standard range (237 miles of range) up to $53,000 for the GT-Line AWD. The Light long range RWD costs $41,200 and is rated at 319 miles. Kia had already cut 2026 EV6 prices by $5,000 earlier this year. The smaller 2027 EV3 starts at $29,890.
What it means for owners: both cars have a built in NACS port, so they can use Tesla Superchargers without an adapter. The EV6 charges from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes, the EV3 in about 30. Our guide on EV charging cost shows what a full charge costs at home and on the road.
