We know from our research that the majority of car shoppers browse without ever submitting a lead, often because they don’t want to share their personal information or are concerned about receiving too many follow-up communications. We also know that 88% of CarGurus users are open to using AI to help them buy or sell a vehicle (2025 Consumer Buyer Insights Report).

To tap into that opportunity, we’re evolving Autolist.com, a CarGurus-owned marketplace, to be a testing ground for innovative shopping experiences.

We’re starting with two tests in September, designed to generate incremental leads from interested buyers who may be hesitant to submit a lead. 

1. Privacy-protected leads: Shoppers can reach out without initially sharing their name, email address or phone. It will appear as an anonymous lead in your CRM. 
   
   • This test will run on 50% of Autolist mobile app traffic for up to 2 months.

2. AI Assistant on New Cars only: Shoppers can have an AI assistant reach out, with a proxy name and email address, to inquire about price and handle negotiations before visiting the dealership. 
   
   • This test will run on all VDPs on Autolist desktop traffic through the end of the year. 

What this means for you

Please inform your Sales/BDC teams to look for ‘CarGurus-Autolist’ leads in your CRM and to follow up with them, just like any other leads. Once the shopper shares their contact information, you can update it in your CRM.

All CarGurus subscribing dealers’ inventory are automatically syndicated to Autolist.com at no additional cost. If you prefer to opt out of Autolist and list exclusively on CarGurus, please reach out to your Account Manager.

As always, thank you for your partnership. We'll keep you informed as these tests evolve.

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