A strong selling rate in December pushed U.S. new-vehicle inventory levels back down to something more closely resembling an industry sweet spot to start the year. Automakers and dealers had an estimated 3.92 million vehicles on hand, or a 62-day supply, according to the Automotive News Data Center. Subaru of America continues to run the tightest ship in the industry, with a 26-day supply. Two other brands had less than 40 days' worth of inventory, with BMW and Audi at 37 days.
