I serve on the board of directors of an organization that provides homes at cost, for people in need. (Not saying the name but I think most will get it). We open our grant period, and during discovery, the finance committee learns quite a bit which they share with us. Out of 100 people who apply, maybe 2 qualify. When going through their finances, we see all these unnecessary expenses. Gym membership, cheese of the month, cell phone for kids under 12, massage packages, Pandora Music Streaming, oh Spotify, and XM Radio Etc. Etc. As I've said before, Americans are great consumers, but when it comes to learning about policies that affect their every day, they are stupid and uneducated and will vote against their own self-interests.
Having said that, I'll admit I was raised with a Silver Spoon in my mouth and still live it, so with caution, I will ask and say "If you can't afford it, why do it" with a touch of " having a license is a privilege, not a right...owning a vehicle is an honor, not a necessity" So if vehicles prices are too high, (you obviously have buyers that CAN afford it, which is why prices keep creeping up), then maybe a used vehicle might be the better way?