Lithia & Driveway reported first-quarter 2026 results on April 29, 2026, highlighting record revenue of $9.3 billion and adjusted diluted EPS of $7.34. Investors also focused on capital returns, as the company repurchased $259 million of stock in the quarter—about 942,000 shares at a $274.62 weighted-average price, equivalent to roughly 4% of shares outstanding. (globenewswire.com)

The release pointed to improving profit drivers in areas investors typically watch for dealership operators: used vehicle revenue rose 4.6% on a same-store basis, used retail gross profit per unit increased 9% sequentially, and aftersales revenue increased 3.8% with aftersales gross margin around 58.7% on a same-store basis. Driveway Finance Corporation posted record originations of $840 million with an 18.0% penetration rate. (globenewswire.com)

Despite the upbeat operational highlights and capital return, the company reported diluted EPS of $4.28, down 46% year over year, alongside a sizable net income decline; adjusted results excluded items including an unrealized loss tied to its Pinewood Technologies investment and other non-core items. This mix—stronger segment trends and buybacks, but weaker GAAP earnings—helps explain why the stock reaction can be positive while investors still scrutinize profitability quality. (globenewswire.com)

Lithia said its earnings call is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. ET on April 29, 2026, which could clarify whether momentum in used vehicles and aftersales can persist and whether the company will frame any updated outlook. Investors will also track buyback capacity, with about $362.9 million remaining under the current authorization, and the newly declared dividend of $0.57 per share payable May 22, 2026 (record date May 8, 2026). (globenewswire.com)