Sonic Automotive Earns 'Hold' Rating from Analysts

Brokerage firms provide mixed outlook on the automotive retailer's stock performance.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 8:42am

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Sonic Automotive, Inc. (NYSE:SAH) has received a consensus 'Hold' rating from the ten research firms covering the company, according to MarketBeat. The average 12-month price target among brokers is $77.50. While some analysts have issued 'Buy' recommendations, others have rated the stock as 'Sell' or 'Hold'.

Why it matters

Sonic Automotive's stock performance and analyst ratings are closely watched by investors, as the company's network of franchised new-car dealerships and used-vehicle operations are seen as a bellwether for the broader automotive retail industry. The mixed analyst views reflect the challenges and uncertainties facing the sector.

The details

The research analysts' ratings on Sonic Automotive include two 'Sell' recommendations, five 'Hold' recommendations, and three 'Buy' recommendations. Bank of America initiated coverage with a 'Neutral' rating, while Needham & Company reaffirmed a 'Buy' rating with a $90 price target. However, Zacks Research downgraded the stock from 'Hold' to 'Strong Sell'.

  • Sonic Automotive reported its latest quarterly earnings on February 18, 2026.
  • The company's next quarterly dividend of $0.38 per share will be paid on April 15, 2026 to shareholders of record as of March 13, 2026.

The players

Sonic Automotive, Inc.

A publicly traded automotive retailer that operates a network of franchised new-car dealerships and used-vehicle dealerships across the United States.

Bank of America

A financial services company that initiated coverage on Sonic Automotive with a 'Neutral' rating.

Needham & Company

An investment banking firm that reaffirmed a 'Buy' rating on Sonic Automotive with a $90 price target.

Zacks Research

A research firm that downgraded Sonic Automotive from 'Hold' to 'Strong Sell'.

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