news release
Used car sales reach highest volume this year
SUV, mini and supermini segments lead the increase in sales
Sales of used MPVs fall for the first time since 2005
Nottingham, UK, 14 December 2012 – Experian®, the global information services company, today published its latest Used Car Sales Index, revealing a total of 1,757,320 used cars were sold in Q3 (July to September 2012) - an increase of 0.5 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2011. The latest index highlights Q3 2012 as the strongest quarter so far this year for used car sales.
The overall uplift rests on three segments, SUV, supermini and mini - the only ones to see increases in sales of 6.4 per cent, 3.3 per cent and 1.6 respectively. Among the best selling SUV models were more compact models favoured for their lower running costs, including the Ford Kuga and the BMW X3, highlighting the increasing demand for fuel efficient models.
Sales of used MPVs, however, fell for the first time since 2005. During Q3, 95,619 used MPVs were sold – down 1.4 per cent compared to Q3 in 2011. Meanwhile, the remaining segments experienced a smaller fall in sales than in previous years.
Hybrid and electric models had the most significant sales increases within their categories with 6,191 hybrid vehicles and 1,110 electric vehicles changing hands in Q3 – up 58.3 per cent and 26.9 per cent respectively. Sales of diesel fuelled vehicles increased by 7.9 per cent while sales of petrol run cars fell by 2.8 per cent.
The only areas in the UK to see used car sales fall compared to Q3 2011, were Greater London (2.4 per cent), the North (1.2 per cent) and Scotland (1.1 per cent).
The Ford Focus overtook the Ford Fiesta as the most popular used car sold in Q3 2012 compared to Q3 2011, jumping from third to first place and selling over 78,600 units during that period.
Andrew Ballard, Strategic Director of Experian’s Automotive business in the UK, commented: “There is a clear trend towards smaller or more fuel efficient models. Even among the SUV sales, some of the biggest increases in sales came from models known for their fuel economy. The larger, more expensive high fuel consuming segments, such as luxury and upper medium segments saw sales fall the furthest.
“We know from talking to the industry that many consumers are now walking into dealerships with a clear idea of what vehicle they want to buy. Insight, such as the Used Car Sales Index, is vital for motor retailers to help them understand where the demand is or what is driving sales, in order to ensure they make that sale. The trend for now, however, is clear. The biggest increases in used car sales will continue to come from the more fuel efficient cars.”
Ends
Contact:
Gemma Wright
0115 992 2645
gemma.wright2@uk.experian.com
About Experian
Experian is the leading global information services company, providing data and analytical tools to clients around the world. The Group helps businesses to manage credit risk, prevent fraud, target marketing offers and automate decision making. Experian also helps individuals to check their credit report and credit score, and protect against identity theft.
Experian plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 index. Total revenue for the year ended 31 March 2012 was US$4.5 billion. Experian employs approximately 17,000 people in 44 countries and has its corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, with operational headquarters in Nottingham, UK; California, US; and São Paulo, Brazil.
For more information, visit http://www.experianplc.com.