The UK’s used car market has grown for the sixth consecutive quarter, rising 7.2% in Q2, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

According to its latest report, the increase saw an additional 131,128 sales compared with the same period in 2023.

SMMT data revealed that transactions have risen in every month of the year, with the first six months up 6.8% to 3,931,318 units – marking the best growth since 2016 and the best first half year since 2019. 

Here are the most sold cars in 2023:

The table highlights the top 10 used cars in 2023, showcasing popular models like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and Volkswagen Golf, which lead in sales.

This suggests that these cars are among the best used cars to buy due to their strong market presence and widespread consumer preference.

Arguably, the Ford Fiesta, with its leading sales, stands out as one of the best second hand cars to buy.

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When it comes to used cars bought in the UK, there were some changes when compared to 2022.

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

According to the SMMT data, bucking the grey trend in the new car market, black cars were the most popular used purchases, with more than 1.5 million buyers – totalling 21.4% of all used cars sold last year.

Grey, however, increased its ranking, displacing blue to take second place.

Further analysis of the used car market saw 4,870 buyers opting for pink, while 4,686 cream cars found new owners, and maroon represented 4,585 transactions.

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Sales of used electric vehicles (EVs) rose 90.9% to a record 118,973 units in 2023.

This represents a 1.6% share of the overall used car market. This is an increase from 0.9% in 2022.

According to the SMMT data, this rise in sales is in line with growth in the new car sector

Most popular fuel type for used cars:

1. Petrol: 4,079,555
2. Diesel: 2,747,911
3. Hybrid: 221,859
4. Electric: 118,973
5. Plug-in Hybrid: 65,837

Although there was a significant rise in the sales of EVs, diesel and petrol remain the most popular amongst used car sales.

These types of vehicles represented 6,827,466 total units sold – 94.3% of the total market.

Following the release of the data, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “A healthy new car market is key to driving choice in the used sector and it’s great to see record numbers of second and third owners benefitting from the growing availability of electric vehicles.

“The demand is there, but to sustain it we must enable every motorist to make the switch. The upcoming Budget is a prime opportunity for government to do just that – halving VAT on new EVs, while making public charging as easy and affordable as plugging in at home, would ensure a faster and fairer transition for all, giving the UK a green economic boost.”

What do you make of the SMMT data? What do you look for in a used car? Leave your comments below.

The table highlights the top 10 used cars that have been sold so far in 2024. Popular models like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and Ford Focus, which lead in sales. Although there half a year  of data left to analyse, these are best second hand cars to buy according to customers.

Following the release of the latest 2024 data, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "It’s encouraging to see the used car market continue its recovery, with choice and affordability rejuvenated by the new car sector’s sustained run of growth.

"The increased supply of electric vehicles to second and third owners is helping more motorists make the switch – underlining the importance of energising the new EV market to support a fair transition for all.

"Maintaining momentum requires reliable, affordable and green EV charging up and down the country and incentives to get all of Britain on board the net zero transition."