Huntington Bank’s Third Annual Midwest Economic Index reveals 16 percent of consumers definitely will purchase a car in 2015. The response represents a 10 percent increase over definite intent for car purchases in 2014 and, Huntington states, is a clear sign of optimism among consumers interviewed in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

“It’s still a great time to buy,” said Huntington Auto Finance Director Rich Porrello. “Consumers are benefitting from low interest rates, high trade-in values and a wide range of manufacturer incentives. Add to that enthusiasm for an outstanding 2015 model year, falling gas prices and the ongoing economic recovery, and we’ll continue to see strong buyer demand throughout the year.”

In comparison to consumers with definite plans to purchase a car in 2014, the Midwest Economic Index revealed increases of 13 percent in West Virginia, 12 percent in Western Pennsylvania, 11 percent in Indianapolis, 9 percent in Michigan and 8 percent in Ohio.

The automotive industry has now experienced five consecutive years of growth in the number of autos sold and is poised for a sixth in light of increased consumer optimism about the U.S. economy and given that the average vehicle on American roads continues to run more than 11 years old, according to an IHS Automotive study based on Polk Co. registration data.