Dealership confidence grows as stock and credit limits rise
Dealerships have increased both stock and credit limits in the first two months of 2026, according to NextGear Capital, which is part of Cox Automotive.
It found that credit limits increased 28% compared to the same period last year, while stock levels were up 11%.
Analysis of the data found a significant uptick in electric vehicle and hybrid funding, with dealers funding 807 electric vehicles and 1,011 hybrid vehicles, which represents 157% and 77% increases, respectively.
Meanwhile, the average cost of cars funded through NextGear Capital between January and February 2026 reached £11,018, up 4.6% on the first two months of 2025.
Market health
Chris Moore, head of credit and customer operations at NextGear Capital, said: “Credit limits remain a key performance indicator of market health, as they reflect both dealer demand for funding and funder confidence in risk exposure.
“We undertake extensive analysis when making decisions to increase a customer’s credit limit. Therefore, sustained growth in credit availability points to improving credit profiles, stronger dealer performance and increased confidence in the resilience of the used market.”
