Used car market returns to pre-pandemic norms – and that could mean more bargaining power for you

Good news if you’re thinking about buying or selling a car: the UK’s used car market is officially back in business. After a few rocky years thanks to the pandemic, things are picking up again – and that could mean more choice, better prices, and new opportunities, especially if you’ve been eyeing an electric car.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

More cars, more choice

Almost 2 million used cars were bought and sold between April and June this year, the best second-quarter performance since 2021, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Over 4 million cars have been sold in the first half of 2025, putting the market nearly back to where it was pre-pandemic.

But what does this mean for you? Simply put: more used cars to choose from, and, hopefully, less pressure on prices.

Second-hand EVs are on the rise

One of the biggest trends is that electric and hybrid cars are starting to take off in the used market, the latest SMMT figures have found.

• Hybrid sales are up nearly 28%.
• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have jumped by 40%.
• And now, almost 1 in 10 used cars sold is electrified.

This is a huge shift, and great if you’ve been wanting to go electric without the new car price tag. With more second-hand EVs popping up, it’s becoming easier (and cheaper) to make the switch.

What’s hot (and what’s not)

If you’re curious what everyone else is driving, here’s what’s trending:

• Small hatchbacks such as Ford Fiestas or Vauxhall Corsas are the most popular, followed by mid-sized hatchbacks.
• SUV-style vehicles (a.k.a. dual-purpose cars) are gaining ground too, with sales up nearly 7%.
• On the flip side, sports cars and larger saloons are slipping in popularity.

And in case you’re wondering: black, grey, and white are still the most popular colours (no surprise there), but if you want to stand out, colours such as cream, green, yellow, and pink are trending up. Meanwhile, turquoise and gold are falling out of style.

Thinking about an electric car? Keep an eye on charging

While more used EVs are hitting the market, there’s still one thing holding people back: charging. The rollout of the government’s new electric car grant and public charging stations will be key to making EVs practical for everyone. So if you’re considering a used EV, check your local charging infrastructure first, or at least make sure you’ve got a decent plan to charge at home.

Tips and tricks for buying a used car

Here are some things you can do to get the best used car deal:

• Know how much you can realistically spend, including insurance, taxes, and any immediate repairs or maintenance. Don’t forget to factor in running costs such as fuel and servicing.
• Do your research by checking online listings and comparing prices for the make, model, and year you want.
• Always get a full history check to see if the car has outstanding finance, previous accidents, or mileage inconsistencies. We have a free car check tool you can use to check a car’s history.
• Inspect the car thoroughly by checking for rust, dents, scratches, mismatched paint, worn tyres, faulty electronics, and any damp or unusual smells.
• Take the car for a test drive on a mix of roads, listening for odd noises, checking the brakes, steering, and acceleration. Also make sure the gearbox shifts smoothly, especially if it’s a manual.
• Hire a trusted mechanic to give it a full once-over before buying.
• Negotiate like a pro by backing your offer with research, pointing out any flaws to lower the price, and being prepared to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
• Check whether a warranty is included or available and confirm the dealer’s return or cooling-off policy.

The used car market’s comeback means more options, better availability, and even access to higher-tech cars at lower prices. Whether you’re buying your first car, looking for a family runaround, or finally ready to try an EV, now might be a great time to start browsing.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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