We often see new car ads that mention the starting price of the vehicle, but common sense tells us that relatively few consumers actually buy the vehicle at that price. We thought it would be interesting to look at how clients’ configured MSRP compares to the vehicles’ starting MSRP.

It’s worth noting that these prices are all pre-negotiation—we’re simply comparing the MSRP of the configuration chosen by the client to the model’s base price.

We’ll look first at the models whose average MSRP (as equipped by our clients) is the lowest percentage of their starting MSRP.

5. Audi A3 Sportback e-tron (Average Configured MSRP 16% above Starting MSRP)

Starting MSRP for the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron is $39,500 and our clients add an average of $6,200 in upgrades to the base model. The Premium Plus trim is often selected, as well as the Technology Package which adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and Bang & Olufson sound.


4. Chevrolet Volt (Average Configured MSRP 15% above Starting MSRP)

Average configured MSRP for the Volt is a little over $5,000 over its base price of $33,220. Our clients often opt for the Premier trim to add push-button start, leather-trim seats, Bose audio and wireless charging.


3. Volkswagen e-Golf (Average Configured MSRP 15% above Starting MSRP)

The VW e-Golf starts at $30,495, our clients typically add about $4,500 in extras to it. The DC Fast Charge is a popular choice as is the SEL Premium trim (adding LED headlights and touchscreen navigation).


2. Chevrolet Bolt (Average Configured MSRP 14% above Starting MSRP)

Base price for a Chevy Bolt is $36,220; our clients choose $5,000 in extras on average. Many select the Premier trim which offers leather-appointed seats and a number of safety options including rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and rear park assist.


Now, we’ll look first at the models whose average MSRP (as equipped by our clients) is the highest percentage of their starting MSRP.

1. Land Rover Range Rover (Average Configured MSRP 8% above Starting MSRP)

The Range Rover starts at $87,350 and clients typically add around $7,500 in upgrades to the base model. Technology options like the Drive Package, and Vision Assist Package are often selected.

5. Porsche Cayenne (Average Configured MSRP 46% above Starting MSRP)

The Porsche Cayenne has a base price of $60,600 and our clients elect for an average of $28,000 in extras. Over half our clients choose the additional engine power of the S trim. The Premium Package with panoramic sunroof, heated seats, lane change assist, and Bose sound is a popular upgrade.

4. Jaguar F-PACE (Average Configured MSRP 47% above Starting MSRP)

The F-PACE starts at $42,065; our clients choose an average of $9,500 in upgrades to this. The Premium and Prestige trims are common upgrades.


3. Toyota Tacoma (Average Configured MSRP 48% above Starting MSRP)

The Tacoma starts at $25,200, but our clients typically add over $12,000 to this. Popular trims include the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited.

2. Jeep Grand Cherokee (Average Configured MSRP 58% above Starting MSRP)

Base price for a new Grand Cherokee is $30,695, but Cartelligent clients choose an average of $18,000 in additional features. The Limited trim, which features a V6 engine, leather trimmed seats, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, is most often selected.

1. Ford F-150 (Average Configured MSRP 84% above Starting MSRP)

Our clients typically add $23,000 to the base F-150 price of $27,610 making it the highest percentage of upgrades to MSRP on this list. Many choose the Lariat or XLT trims; engine upgrades and premium wheels are also popular.

No matter what your own requirements are, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.