Used car sales tipped to reach 7.7 million in 2025

Used car sales in the UK are expected to rise from 7.61 million in 2024 to 7.7 million this year, according to Auto Trader.
This comes after research found that, despite uncertainty surrounding the economy, almost three quarters of consumers are looking to purchase a car in the next six months.
The market has already made a strong start to the year, with sales and values holding firm during January. Volumes were down just one per cent year-on-year, while average retail prices remained flat at £16,774 last month.
Meanwhile, average sales times were down to just 38 days in the month, which is three days faster than January 2024.
Auto Trader has now urged dealerships to capitalise on a strong market after finding that about 61,000 high demand used cars are currently priced below their true market value, resulting in over £24m in potential earnings being missed – the equivalent of around £3,000 per retailer.
Used car market shows resilience
Richard Walker, Auto Trader’s data and insights director, said: “Following a very strong 2024, the used car market continues to show its huge resilience in the face of broader economic turbulence.
“The year ahead will hold some unique challenges for the industry, but our data should offer some optimism for 2025 – demand is robust, prices are stable, and cars are leaving forecourts at a record pace. And despite some negative rhetoric, based on the solid market fundamentals we’re tracking, we don’t see any significant or immediate threat to consumer appetite for used cars.
“It’s disappointing though for retailer profitability performance to see potential margin still being missed with too many cars, including some of the most desirable stock, being under-priced. With so many buyers returning to their next car research following the festive period, there’s a big opportunity for retailers over the coming months.”