, -- Cox Automotive's Digitization of Automotive Retail Study reveals a growing momentum toward more efficient, connected, and AI-enabled vehicle retailing. As consumer expectations shift, nearly half of franchise dealers now offer a fully online purchase experience—doubling in just two years—marking a decisive industry evolution that also links increased digitization to profitability. 

The research highlights that 7 in 10 buyers say completing steps online saves time and improves their experience, while 83% of dealers acknowledge customers often repeat steps in-store due to inconsistent online data. To close this gap, high-performing dealers are increasingly turning to third-party partnerships and integrated AI tools. 

"Forcing car buyers down one purchase path is no longer considered a best practice. Today's most successful dealers are rethinking the retail journey—creating seamless transitions between online and in-store, powered by automation, clean data, and personalization," said Lori Wittman, President of Retail Solutions at Cox Automotive. "This study reinforces our mission to support dealers in building the omnichannel, customer-first experiences consumers now demand. Opening all paths to purchase and connecting them is even more important in this rising cost environment we're all facing." 

Additional findings include: 

The study supports Cox Automotive's omnichannel approach and builds on the company's connected retail ecosystem strategy, showing how modern, connected experiences are not only desired—they're expected- and profitable. 

For more insights, download the full ebook covering the study, The Omnichannel Dealership: https://www.coxautoinc.com/retail/omnichannel-dealership