Top 10 most popular used cars in the UK

The UK’s used car market began the year strongly, with 2,020,990 vehicles sold in the first quarter - marking the first time sales have exceeded two million in Q1 since before the pandemic, according to new data released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Sales were up 2.7% compared to the same period last year, marking the ninth consecutive quarter of growth as increased supply from the new car market continued to support demand.

Petrol continued to be the most popular fuel type, with sales increasing by 2.1% to 1,149,855 units, while diesel registrations declined by 3.1% to 679,739 units. Together, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles accounted for 90.5% of all used car transactions during the quarter.

However, their combined market share dropped by 2.4 percentage points compared to Q1 2024, reflecting a growing shift toward electrified vehicles.

Battery electric vehicles experienced the strongest growth, surging 58.5% to 65,850 units and achieving a record 3.3% share of the used car market.

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Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "The used car market has enjoyed its strongest start to a year since before the pandemic, with supply fuelled by a recovering new car market. Critically, more second-hand buyers are opting for electric vehicles, with greater choice and affordability enabling more people and businesses to switch.

"Sustaining and expanding this growth, however, depends on a healthy supply of EVs from the new car market – which in turn requires fiscal incentives alongside a nationally accessible and affordable charge point network so that everyone, whatever their budget or driving needs, can benefit from zero emission motoring."

The table highlights the top 10 used cars in Q1 2025.

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Black remained the top choice among used car buyers for the 29th consecutive quarter, representing 21.2% of all sales. Grey and blue followed in second and third place, with sales rising by 6.3% and 1.2% respectively.

In contrast, former favourite silver, along with orange and gold, were the only colours in the top 20 to see declines, with sales dropping by 3.1%, 4.9%, and 5.1% respectively.

Here are the top 10 colours for used cars bought in the UK:

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