Jobaaj Stories
Used Hybrids Reign Supreme: A Look at the Booming Used Car Market
The used car market is hotter than ever, and hybrid vehicles are leading the charge. According to Auto Trader, a leading UK automotive marketplace, used hybrid cars are selling at record speed in April 2025, spending an average of just 25 days on the forecourt—a full six days faster than in April 2021. This surge in demand highlights a significant shift in consumer preferences towards fuel-efficient options.
Hybrids Dominate the Fastest-Selling List
The data is compelling. Six out of the top ten fastest-selling used cars in April 2025 were hybrids. The Mercedes-Benz GLA petrol hybrid took the crown, selling in a mere 6.5 days on average. The Vauxhall Grandland followed closely behind, averaging seven days. This impressive performance isn't limited to specific models; full and mild hybrid vehicles are now matching petrol cars in sales speed, averaging a remarkable 24 days on the market – the fastest month on record since 2017.
Market Trends and Price Points
This increased demand isn't solely driven by speed; the average price of used hybrids has even dropped by 11.5% in the last year, falling to £25,260 in March 2025 from £28,352 in March 2024. In contrast, the overall average used car price in March 2025 was £16,915, a modest 1.30% increase from the previous year. This indicates an attractive entry point for consumers seeking greener options.
Global Market Challenges
While the UK market shows a strong preference for hybrids, the global landscape presents a more complex picture. A forecast by Telemetry suggests that escalating trade wars could significantly impact US and Canadian auto sales, potentially leading to a decline of 1.8 million vehicles this year and stagnation over the next decade. Tariffs are driving up prices, impacting affordability and potentially leading to job losses in the industry.
The Future of Auto Sales
Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for electric vehicles (EVs) remains positive. Telemetry projects that battery electric vehicles will become the dominant powertrain globally within a decade. The used car market, meanwhile, will continue to be shaped by consumer demand, pricing strategies, and global economic factors. Understanding these trends is crucial for both buyers and sellers navigating this dynamic market.
