Small models drive rising used car demand
Used car demand remains strong with Auto Trader reporting that days-to-sale has fallen from 30 days in August to 29 days in September.
Demand is strongest for smaller used models, with the MG HS finding a buyer in an average of just 16 days, followed closely by the Toyota Yaris, Kia Sportage, Kia Niro, Hyundai BAYON, Honda Jazz, Suzuki S-Cross and Vauxhall Mokka Electric.
By contrast, large SUVs such as the older diesel Land Rover models are among September’s slowest sellers.
In terms of fuel types, hybrids and EVs account for seven of the 10 fastest-selling used cars this month, with EVs aged three to five years averaging 25 days to sell, while at brand level, MG, Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, Suzuki and Honda account for eight of the top 10 positions.
Marc Palmer, head of insights, Auto Trader, said: “The used car market is carrying good momentum into autumn, with healthy buyer demand reflected in the increased speed of stock turn. What stands out in September is the strength of demand for practical, everyday stock, with hatchbacks and smaller SUVs prominent across the fastest selling rankings.
“For retailers, the message is clear: the market is moving quickly, but not evenly. The biggest opportunities are likely to come from stocking the vehicles that match live buyer demand, pricing them competitively, and using real-time data to identify where they can turn stock quickly while still protecting margin.”
