The UK car market is racing ahead, with used cars selling faster than ever. According to the latest Auto Trader used car market report, vehicles are averaging just 25 days on sale — impressively setting a record pace for 2025.
Hybrid SUVs Leading the Pack
What are the most popular types of car in the UK? Currently, the fastest-selling used cars in the UK in 2025 are dominated by nearly new petrol-hybrid SUVs. Taking pole position is the Vauxhall Grandland, with under-one-year-old models finding new owners in an astonishing 7.5 days. Hot on its heels is the equally sought-after Mercedes-Benz GLC, selling within 8.5 days. Jeep’s Avenger, another in demand petrol-powered SUV, completes the top three with an average sale time of 11 days.
- Vauxhall Grandland (under one-year-old petrol-hybrid) – 7.5 days
- Mercedes-Benz GLC (one-year-old petrol-hybrid) – 8.5 days
- Jeep Avenger (one-year-old petrol) – 11 days
The prominence of hybrid SUVs reflects growing consumer preference towards efficient yet practical vehicles, a trend likely fuelled by escalating fuel costs and environmental concerns.
Nearly New Cars: A Mixed Market
While nearly new SUVs are flying off the forecourts, other cars in this category are experiencing slower turnover. Auto Trader highlighted that 80% of the slowest-selling cars are also nearly new models, averaging 31 days to sell. This contrast signals a market where pricing and consumer demand vary significantly within this age group.
Older vehicles, particularly those aged 5-10 years, have emerged surprisingly strong, selling on average in 23 days. This age category has experienced robust market health, enjoying a 7.1% year-on-year increase in demand, underscoring their appeal in a price-sensitive market.
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New Car Registrations and Tariffs: A Cloudy Forecast
Turning our gaze to new cars, March 2025, UK new car registration statistics reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show a promising 12.4% growth, with over 357,000 new vehicles registered. This uplift is cautiously celebrated amidst rising geopolitical tension and financial pressure.
The recent imposition of US car tariffs could spell significant challenges for the UK automotive industry. With 80% of the UK’s 780,000 cars produced in 2024 exported and the US accounting for 17%, the introduction of a 25% US import duty threatens approximately 25,000 automotive jobs linked directly to US exports.
EY UK automotive leader David Borland emphasised the resilience of the UK automotive industry but cautioned that the combination of rising tariffs, escalating employment costs, and ongoing economic uncertainties might test companies’ capacities severely throughout 2025.
Battery Electric Vehicles: A Positive but Complicated Growth
Despite challenges, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) saw record growth in March 2025, signifying consumer readiness to embrace sustainable alternatives. Yet, Edwin Kemp, director at EY-Parthenon Strategy, notes significant hurdles remain. Factors such as affordability, charging infrastructure gaps, battery life concerns, and regulatory complexities continue to limit BEV adoption rates below government expectations.
Incentives and clearer consumer education will be crucial to sustaining the momentum gained in March and achieving long-term growth for the EV market in the UK.
Looking Ahead: Navigating the Complex Road
With the UK’s automotive sector caught between robust demand for used vehicles and looming international challenges, the industry’s outlook is mixed. Motor traders can benefit significantly from carefully pricing their vehicles according to market trends, capitalising on the buoyant consumer demand.
Ultimately, the future outlook for the UK car manufacturing industry will hinge on strategic adaptation—navigating tariffs, sustainability targets, and shifting consumer expectations in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
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