Autotrader’s latest analysis suggests the UK’s used car market is likely to remain stable despite speculation surrounding the Autumn Budget.
While broader economic indicators remain flat, consumer engagement on the platform increased in October, supporting continued price growth and sales velocity.
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According to Autotrader’s Retail Price Index, which draws on approximately 800,000 daily AI-driven observations, the average retail price of a used car reached £17,087 in October. This represents a 0.4% year-on-year increase and marks the third consecutive month of annual growth following a prolonged period of price contraction.
Month-on-month, prices rose by 0.7% compared to September. Autotrader attributes this growth to sustained consumer demand, reflected in over 81 million platform visits in October, up 3% from the previous month. Vehicles sold at an average rate of 28 days, one day faster than the same period last year and four days quicker than in 2023.
Marc Palmer, Head of Strategy and Insights at Autotrader, noted that “car ownership continues to be a protected priority,” adding that motoring spend is “typically the last area to see reductions.” Autotrader’s consumer research supports this, showing that while many plan to reduce discretionary spending, such as dining out (40%), clothing (30%), and travel (29%), only 16% intend to cut back on motoring expenses.
Palmer acknowledged that while some consumers may delay purchasing new vehicles until after the Budget announcement, historical data shows minimal impact on used car activity. Engagement typically remains strong, easing only in the lead-up to Christmas.
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By GlobalDataHowever, the Government’s proposed pay-per-mile tax on electric vehicles (EVs) could introduce uncertainty. Demand for used EVs rose by approximately 30% year-on-year in October, with the 3–5-year-old segment seeing a 40% increase. Autotrader cautions that “anything that puts up running costs risks slowing the momentum” in both new and used EV markets.
Looking ahead, Autotrader reports that Q4 engagement remains high, with many consumers using the period to research future purchases. On average, buyers spend around 88 days researching before committing, suggesting that activity in late 2025 may translate into sales in early 2026.
Palmer advised retailers to maintain visibility and presentation of stock online, stating that doing so positions them to “capture this pent-up demand and start the new year with real sales momentum.”
