Chinese sales most notable used car market trend of 2026
UK dealerships believe that higher Chinese car sales will be the most substantial trend in the used car market this year.
According to January’s Startline Used Car Tracker, 53% of dealerships believe the popularity of new Chinese entrants will impact the market more than anything else during 2026.
Meanwhile, 50% identified the move to electric cars as a notable trend in the next 12 months, 38% said a shortage of good quality stock, and 37% said the higher usage of AI.
Other issues that figured high on the minds of dealership included demand for plug-in hybrids (35%), availability of motor finance (25%) and the ZEV Mandate (15%).
Chinese brands
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said: “The popularity of Chinese new entrants has been very apparent in the last year or so, with increasing numbers of their cars appearing on our roads and growing UK franchise dealer networks.
“They will inevitably start to appear on the used market in higher volumes and dealers clearly believe this could have a substantial impact, probably both in terms of their appeal to buyers and the effect on the wider manufacturer sector.
“The other significant issues mentioned here – electrification and stock shortages – are more established but no less substantial. Especially, the quantity of used electric cars available is growing and more dealers are starting to retail them successfully.”
Diverse results
He concluded: “This is a diverse set of results, reflecting the wide range of issues currently facing dealers. Perhaps the most notable development is their interest in AI, with many respondents apparently believing this is a tool with much potential.
“Growing consumer interest in plug-in hybrids is also significant. Dealers increasingly view these as a stepping stone technology to full electrification for many motorists, and there is a strong expectation that demand will rise.”
