What Is The Most Sought After Second Hand Car?
If you are thinking of buying a used car, you may be considering: what is the most sought after second hand car? We look at the best second hand cars available to buy today.
Most popular second-hand cars
The market for used vehicles has remained, for the most part, relatively steady in the last 5 years, even though registrations for new cars reduced by 2.4% in 2019, its lowest point since 2013. 7.9 million second-hand cars were sold in 2019 alone, just 10,000 cars less (0.1 per cent) than in 2018.
In this article, we will discuss the most popular used cars pre-pandemic, as this provides a more accurate image of the used car market before lockdown impacted both the supply and demand.
10.
Renault Clio
Used transactions in 2019:
126,587
Renault's stylish supermini didn't make it into the top 10s for new model markets in 2019; however, there is still significant demand for the car in the second-hand market. The disparity between new and used sales is likely due to the car being cheap but depreciating substantially quicker than its rivals because it's not as reliable.
In showrooms today, the Clio is advertising the cars as part of its fifth generation, which started back in the 1990s. As this specific generation is very much tried and tested, it's easy to see why people are still choosing the Renault Clio.
9.
Audi A3
Used transactions in 2019:
127,294
The first generation of A3 arrived back in 1996, and since then, the car has been a popular second-hand model car for many years now. Drivers are often making the executive decision to let someone else incur the rapid depreciation of an Audi A3 for the first couple of years of ownership, then swoop when the prices fall to more acceptable, affordable levels.
Given that they have lots of badge appeal and a premium finish, many people would rather have an Audi A3 over a comparable Vauxhall Astra or Ford Focus.
8.
Volkswagen Polo
Used transactions in 2019:
157,353
The latest iteration (at the time) of the VW Polo was successful enough to reach the ninth spot on the list of most-bought new cars in 2019, and the appetite for used models is equally as potent. Over 150,000 second-hand Polos switched owners last year, with older examples representing a more grown-up feel and relatively affordable motoring.
The Polo is among the longest-serving of all the models featured in the list, which dates as far back as 1975, although the classic MK1 models, provided they are in good working order, will likely be appreciating assets as time goes on. Expect many more second hand Volkswagen Polos to be sold in the upcoming years, despite fierce competition.
7.
Mini Hatchback
Used transactions in 2019:
168,878
For such a small car, the Mini isn't cheap. Buying from a showroom today will cost you £17,405 for the Mini 3-door hatch, and significantly more for the Mini Electric from £26,000. Despite its price, almost 45,000 were bought in 2019 alone, so it is clear that the market is thriving.
Historically the Mini range has depreciated gradually, though the BMW-made models have been on sale since 2001, meaning there's a spread of value across the used market. It's no surprise that the Mini is such a successful second-hand seller; the cars are known for their fashionability, attractive prices and availability.
6.
BMW 3 Series
Used transactions in 2019:
184,470
Despite narrowly missing out on being featured in the list of the best-selling new cars of 2019, The BMW 3 Series is still well cemented as a popular second-hand choice.
Due to their immense popularity, there is no shortage of BMWs among leasing firms and fleets, who have moved them into the second-hand market after they pass a certain mileage or age.
For the family looking for a premium German family car, there are plenty of bargain BMWs to take advantage of. As of 2021, Auto Trader has over 8000 used BMW 3 series listed.
5.
Vauxhall Astra
Used transactions in 2019:
243,746
There's a pretty substantial jump in sales, over 59,000 in fact, from the BMW 3 Series in the sixth spot to the Vauxhall Astra in the fifth. There is a clear, price-related reason behind this - used car buyers have access to far more recent models of the Astra than they do for the BMW 3 Series if they were to spend the same amount of money.
However, the Vauxhall Astra's popularity is likely to decline, albeit gradually, as we have already seen a reduction in new car sales, with the car failing to feature on the top 10 most popular models in recent years. The trend is likely to be mirrored in the second-hand market.
4.
Volkswagen Golf
Used transactions in 2019:
260,344
Since 1974, the Volkswagen Golf has been around in eight forms. Providing a huge variety for the second-hand market.
It should come as no surprise that over 260,000 used examples have been transacted in 2019, as the family hatchback is one of the most bought new cars in the UK.
Similar to the 3 Series, the Golf is a hire-car, leasing and fleet favourite. As many of the versions that have flooded onto the second-hand market are nearly new, it's easy to see why it's selling so well. In particular, the hot hatch GTI models are still in large demand across all generations.
3.
Ford Focus
Used transactions in 2019:
293,276
The Ford Focus hasn't been around as nearly as long as the competition, but that hasn't held it back. The car is now in its fourth generation since its launch in 1998, and the Ford Family hatchback has quickly joined the market.
Ford Focus cars are incredibly popular, both new and used. Nearly new examples of the car can be purchased for just a fraction of the retail price.
Most of the first-generation struggles to cope with age, and the line is starting to get thin, though you can easily find robust newer options.
2.
Vauxhall Corsa
Used transactions in 2019:
299,791
Superminis account for one in three of all used models bought in 2019, making them the most popular second-hand buy of all car types. They are selling much more than the emerging SUVs, which are growing fast in the new market, although you won't find one on this list.
The Vauxhall Corsa benefits substantially from the demand for Superminis, largely due to motorists wanting a cheaper second-hand model for their families. Since the early 1990s, smaller Vauxhall models have become a staple in the UK motor industry.
1.
Ford Fiesta
Used transactions in 2019:
351,767
To no one's surprise, the best selling new car of the last decade is also the most sought-after car in the second-hand market. As of 2021, there are almost 12,000 used Fiestas of varying generations available on Auto Trader. Ford fiestas have been around for over 44 years since the launch of the model in 1976.
In that time, they have become the most attractive option for buyers of new and used cars. Most Ford Fiestas of the last couple of decades are relatively robust, so there are many options for buyers who don't mind paying for an older car if it means getting it for cheap.
Buying the right Used car for you
Buying a car isn't as simple as just looking through a list and choosing the best one; it's about finding a good car with features that matter to you. For example, boot space and seats will matter a lot more to a family than a sports enthusiast.
We have hand-picked the best-used cars going into 2022 from a range of vehicle types so you can find one that suits you.
Best used family car
Vauxhall Insignia
The Vauxhall Insignia and similar cars have slightly fallen out of favour as of recent, as buyers are purchasing Family SUVs and hybrids instead. Despite the drop in popularity, the Vauxhall Insignia, in particular, remains an impressively talented car. It is competitively priced as a used buy, being rather affordable for a family whilst offering strong performance.
The practicality of the Insignia is one of its main benefits. It is similarly sized to the BMW 5 Series, which is impressive considering that the Insignia is an entire class below. The size provides more than enough space for a family of five with a large boot. The Insignia is also well-packed with features such as air-conditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth phone connection, and cruise control.
Additionally, there are several trim levels to choose from, starting at the basic SE spec and topping out at the luxury-focused Ultimate trim.
Best Used Estate Car
Skoda Octavia Estate (2012-2020)
The Skoda Octavia Estate was an incredibly impressive car in its prime, right up to being replaced, so it's easy to see why it makes for such a smart second-hand buy. The car offers plenty of head and legroom, with a well-sized 610-litre boot, significantly bigger than competitors such as the Mercedes A-Class, Kia Sportage and Vauxhall Mokka.
The modern interior is both well laid out and comfortable, and the petrol and diesel engines are economical. Furthermore, the trims are well equipped, with the standard equipment including DAB radio, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, alloy wheels and air conditioning.
Best Used Sports car
Mazda MX-5
The Mazda MX-5 has been praised in the spotlight as a new car for many years, so it makes a lot of sense for that success to carry over to the second-hand market. It's rare to find a car as agile, precise in handling, and as fun as this for such a budget-friendly price. With its driver engagement, hugging sports seats and forgiving ride quality, the MX-5 makes it easy to enjoy the luxury of a sports car.
It also has low running costs, as the 1.5 and 2.0-litre engines are capable of returning around 40mpg. With attractive car finance options available, this car is considered a steal for some.
Its appeal is slightly limited by its 130-litre boot size, although that downside is more than made up with its standard kit, which includes heated seats, cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sat-nav, and climate control.
Best Used Convertible
MINI Convertible
The MINI Convertible is both fun and frugal, which is why it's the favourite car for many, year after year. The MINI is just as easy and certainly more enjoyable than its fixed-roof sibling. With its large variety of trim levels and specs, you'll likely find the MINI that suits your budget.
Starting at the entry-level classic through to the performance-focused, more expensive John Cooper Works model, it's not difficult to find a MINI perfect for you. Buyers looking for premium features, the higher-spec models have you covered.
Some of the equipment in these more expensive models includes leather seats, Sat-nav, premium stereo systems, and climate control. Despite being so small, the MINI Convertible has a respectable boot size of 215 litres. Additionally, the MINI is cheap to run, as the petrol engines can return 40mpg or more.
Are you thinking of buying a used car online? If you live in Preston, Lytham, Cleverlys, Blackpool or Fleetwood, you can take advantage of our car collection and delivery service for online purchases throughout the UK.
Call us today on 0759 558 2713 or complete our contact form for more information.
