CVNA
From used-car underdog to full-on auto retail menace
Carvana built its brand by making used-car buying feel less like a hostage negotiation and more like opening a package on your couch. Now it’s edging into new-car sales, and that has dealership folks looking over their shoulders like someone just walked into their lunchroom and started taking fries.
Why dealers are annoyed
The recent move follows Carvana’s deal to scoop up seven Stellantis dealerships, which is the kind of expansion that makes legacy auto retailers mutter, "Oh, so you do want the whole aisle." It’s not just a random side hustle — it hints that Carvana wants a bigger slice of the auto-buying funnel, from old rides to shiny new ones.
What it means for your money
If Carvana can translate its tech-heavy, online-first playbook into new-car sales, it could unlock a much bigger market and more recurring revenue streams. But it also brings fresh headaches: dealer friction, execution risk, and the messy reality of selling new cars, where margins, manufacturer relationships, and local competition all get harder fast.
Big picture: Carvana may be trying to evolve from a used-car superstar into a one-stop auto empire. That can be great news for growth — if it doesn’t turn into an expensive joyride.