Hatchbacks high used automotive hotlist in Might, whereas convertibles warmth up for summer time

Used automotive gross sales stay brisk throughout the UK, with inventory flying off forecourts in a median of simply 29 days to date in Might — at some point quicker than the identical interval in 2024, in accordance with the newest knowledge from Auto Dealer.

Whereas the general pace of sale has dipped barely in comparison with April’s 27-day common, the minor deceleration aligns with anticipated seasonal traits. Regardless of this, the info continues to level to a sturdy retail setting.

Hatchbacks lead, Corsa claims the crown

Hatchbacks have emerged because the UK’s fastest-selling physique kind in Might, with a median sale time of 29 days. The Vauxhall Corsa leads the pack, taking simply 15 days to promote, securing its place because the UK’s fastest-moving used mannequin.

The petrol variant of the enduring hatchback — now over three many years into its lifecycle — continues to resonate strongly with consumers, cementing its standing as a retail mainstay for sellers nationwide.

Quickest-selling used vehicles – Might 2025

Convertibles again in demand as temperatures climb

Spring sunshine has triggered a resurgence in convertible demand. Whereas tender tops didn’t make the highest 10 fastest-sellers checklist, they’re now promoting in a median of 32 days — three days quicker than Might final yr. The development, pushed partially by April’s document sunshine, suggests sellers might profit from adjusting inventory profiles accordingly as summer time approaches.

Gasoline combine and age cohort traits spotlight strategic alternatives

Petrol-powered vehicles proceed to dominate forecourts, making up 60% of Might’s high performers and averaging simply 28 days to promote.

Diesel follows at 30 days, whereas hybrids and EVs lag barely at 32 and 34 days respectively.

Curiously, two totally electrical fashions — the MG ZS and Ford Explorer — characteristic within the month’s high 10, underlining rising curiosity in well-priced, youthful EV inventory.

When it comes to car age, the 5-10-year bracket stays probably the most liquid section, with inventory on this vary promoting in simply 27 days.

In distinction, almost new autos (underneath one yr outdated) are presently the slowest-selling cohort, averaging 34 days — regardless of making up half of the highest 10 checklist.

Marc Palmer, Auto Dealer’s head of technique & insights, stated: “We proceed to see used vehicles promote at a fast tempo, which is an excellent barometer of market well being.

“Regardless of what’s been a turbulent few months from an financial and political perspective, shopper demand for used vehicles stays very sturdy.

“Nevertheless, whether or not it’s hatchbacks, convertibles, younger or outdated, there’s enormous nuance available in the market, so I’d actually encourage retailers to analyse the info and insights out there to make sure probably the most worthwhile sourcing and pricing technique.”

Slowest-selling used vehicles – Might 2025