2025 Used Car Sales Return to Pre-Pandemic Figures

“The used car market in July has maintained growth throughout Q2, with transactions reaching almost 2 million, therefore returning the market to pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2025” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), commenting on the latest SMMT’s used car figures.

The used car market experienced an increase of 1.7% and a total of 1,996,116 transactions occurred in the quarter.

Used battery electric vehicles (BEVs) recorded significant growth, increasing by 40.0% to 68,721 units and achieving a market share of 3.4%. Sales of plug-in hybrids also saw growth, rising by 10.3%. Meanwhile, hybrids (HEVs) increased by 27.7% to 100, 127 units, owning 5.0% of the market share. Petrol remained the best-selling fuel type, rising 1.5% to 1,134,387 units, while diesel vehicles, at 664,644 units, saw a decline of -4.3%.

Sue Robinson added: “Whilst NFDA is pleased to see the used car market’s growth, the impact of the new Electric Car Grant (ECG) on used vehicle market sales will develop over the remainder of the year. Previously, demand for electric battery models has increased and shown consumer confidence, therefore the investment in incentives should lead to a further uptake.

“Additionally, the sector continues to face a number of issues, despite the result of the Supreme Court decision on motor finance, and dealers will have to continue to be nimble in the face of market headwinds.”