As we move into 2025, the automotive industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Car dealerships that want to stay ahead must adapt to shifting consumer behaviors, emerging technologies, and new marketing strategies. At Pacific Coast Advertising, we specialize in helping auto dealers navigate this dynamic landscape. Here are the top automotive marketing trends to watch in 2025.
1. AI-Powered Personalization
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way dealerships interact with potential buyers. AI-driven tools can analyze customer data, predict buying preferences, and create hyper-personalized ads. Chatbots and virtual assistants are also becoming more sophisticated, allowing dealerships to provide 24/7 customer service and generate leads effortlessly.
2. Video Marketing Dominance
Video continues to be a game-changer in automotive marketing. Short-form content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts is driving high engagement. Live-streamed vehicle walkarounds, test drives, and behind-the-scenes dealership footage help build trust and excitement among buyers.
3. The Rise of Connected TV (CTV) Advertising
Traditional TV ads are declining, while Connected TV (CTV) advertising is gaining traction. With more consumers streaming content on platforms like Hulu and YouTube TV, dealerships can use CTV to reach highly targeted audiences and measure performance more effectively than with traditional broadcast commercials.
4. Voice Search & Conversational Marketing
With the rise of smart speakers and voice assistants, optimizing for voice search is essential. Phrases like “Where can I buy a Mazda near me?” or “Best electric SUV in Los Angeles” are becoming more common. Dealerships must ensure their content is optimized for natural language queries to stay visible.
5. Social Commerce & In-App Car Buying
Social media platforms are making it easier than ever to shop for cars directly within apps. Facebook Marketplace, Instagram Shops, and TikTok’s e-commerce features enable dealerships to showcase their inventory and facilitate sales seamlessly. Expect more platforms to roll out direct buying options in 2025.
6. Data-Driven Decision Making
With privacy concerns leading to stricter regulations on third-party cookies, first-party data collection is now a priority. Dealerships that leverage CRM systems, email marketing, and loyalty programs to gather customer insights will have a competitive advantage.
7. Sustainability & EV-Focused Marketing
As California continues to push for widespread EV adoption, auto dealers must align their marketing strategies accordingly. Highlighting EV incentives, charging infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives will resonate with environmentally conscious consumers.
8. Enhanced Digital Retailing
The pandemic accelerated the demand for online car buying, and this trend isn’t slowing down. Consumers expect seamless digital experiences, from browsing inventory to securing financing and scheduling test drives—all without stepping foot in a dealership. Dealers must refine their digital retailing platforms to provide a frictionless shopping experience.
Stay Ahead with Pacific Coast Advertising
At Pacific Coast Advertising, we understand the unique challenges auto dealers face in today’s fast-changing market. Our team specializes in cutting-edge marketing strategies tailored to help dealerships drive more leads, increase sales, and build long-term customer relationships.
If you’re ready to future-proof your dealership’s marketing strategy, contact us today to learn how we can help you stay ahead of the competition in 2025 and beyond.
