My Friend Was Shopping For a 2025 Honda Civic Type R and Found This on the Dealer’s Sticker, It Says “Additional Dealer Profit $15,000” Ain't No Way

A $15,000 markup on a new 2025 Honda Civic Type R isn't just outrageous—it's a glaring symptom of a much bigger problem plaguing the current auto market.

Donald Goldstien on his Facebook page says, 

"My friend was car shopping for a 2025 Honda Civic Type R and ended up at this Honda dealer, and look at the sticker. Look closely, did they really put that there? It says "Additional Dealer Profit" $15,000. Ain't no way."

When I first saw this Facebook post, I thought it was a joke. But it turns out to be true. I had the same reaction as Donald Goldstien on his Facebook page: "Ain't no way." It's an insult to the consumer, a slap in the face to enthusiasts, and a perfect example of what's wrong with the current car-buying experience.

Let's break this down because this isn't just about a single car—it's a symptom of a much larger problem. This isn't just a fee; it's a raw, unapologetic markup that the dealership is adding purely for its own gain. It has nothing to do with market forces, legitimate costs, or anything other than pure, unadulterated opportunism. 

This kind of Honda Civic Type R dealer markup experience is becoming all too common, and it's a practice we need to expose and combat with knowledge.

The reason this is happening to a car like the Civic Type R is a simple equation of supply and demand, with a heavy dose of fanaticism. Enthusiasts have been dreaming of owning one since its last generation, and the new model has only amplified that desire. 

The demand is off the charts, but Honda's allocation strictly limits the supply to dealerships. When you have a high-demand, low-supply product, especially one with a cult-like following, dealers see an opportunity to maximize their profit. 

The 2025 Honda Civic Type R MSRP vs dealer price is a chasm that dealers are all too willing to exploit.

So, let's look at that window sticker. You'll see the MSRP ($47,500), which stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the number Honda says the car should sell for. It's a suggestion, yes, but it serves as the official starting point for any negotiation. 

Then you have the destination charge, which is a legitimate cost to get the car from the factory to the dealership. And then, there it is: "Additional Dealer Profit," "Market Adjustment," or "Dealer Added Value." Whatever they call it, it's just a number they pulled out of thin air. 

This Honda dealer is getting an additional $15,000 dealer profit. They added Door Edge Guards ($399) and All-Weather Floor Mats ($599) for a total of $63,498. 

This difference between the dealer's profit and the MSRP on new Honda cars is what you're really fighting against, and it's crucial to understand it so you don't get taken for a ride. The problem is, many people see it and, desperate for the car, accept it. This is where your power lies.

Your most powerful tool in this situation is information. 

Before you ever step on a lot, you should know the exact MSRP of the vehicle you want. Call multiple dealerships. Don't ask for the "best price"; instead, ask for a complete, out-the-door price that includes all taxes, fees, and charges. This is the only way to compare apples to apples. 

This is the first step in learning how to avoid dealer add-ons and profit markups. If a dealer won't give you a clear price over the phone, that's a red flag. Move on. There are dealerships out there that operate with integrity and sell cars at or near MSRP. You have to find them.

This Honda dealer's markup isn't just about the Civic Type R; this issue affects many highly anticipated, limited-production vehicles. The question you're asking yourself about the Honda Civic Type R's market adjustment is the same one people are asking about the Toyota GR Corolla, the new Subaru WRX, and even some popular electric vehicles. 

The term "market adjustment" is a nice way of saying "we are charging more because we can," and it's a practice that leverages a dealer's position of power over a consumer who feels they have no other options. But you do have options.

When you find a dealership that seems reasonable, be prepared to negotiate. 

Your leverage is in your research. 

Tell them you have an out-the-door price from another dealer. Show them you're not an easy target. Focus on the final price, not the monthly payment. Many people become fixated on the monthly payment and end up paying thousands more over the life of the loan. Knowing the strategies to negotiate a fair price on a new car will empower you. 

Don't be afraid to walk away. If a dealership isn't willing to work with you, another one will. Your power is your ability to say "no." If no one bought cars at these insane prices, dealers would have no choice but to drop them.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it comes down to understanding the pricing and fees associated with new car dealerships. The dealer isn't a friend, and that "Additional Dealer Profit" isn't a friendly gesture. It's an opportunistic tactic designed to capitalize on your enthusiasm and the car's scarcity. 

While dealers are in the business of making a profit, a $15,000 markup on a 2025 Civic Type R is unconscionable. It's not a fee, it's not a charge, it's a money grab, plain and simple.

It's Your Turn

So, here's my question to you: What's the most outrageous or ridiculous dealer markup you have ever seen on a new car, and what did you do about it? Share your stories below to help other car buyers. Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

Check out my 2024 Honda Prologue story: My 2024 Honda Prologue Has Been In the Shop At Least 5 Months Since It Was New, I'm Frustrated That I Have To Deal With Such a Piece of GM Garbage

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Donald Goldstien