Imported Used Vehicle Market Trends in Europe
The imported used vehicle market in Europe is a significant part of the overall used car market, with a wide range of options available to consumers. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the current trends in the imported used vehicle market in Europe and what you can expect to see in the coming years.
The state of the used car market
The European used car market is showing signs of stabilization after several years of volatility driven by supply chain disruptions and inflation. Transaction volumes across major markets such as Germany, France, and Italy have remained broadly stable or slightly increasing, with Germany alone recording over 3.2 million used car transactions in the first half of 2025 (+0.3% year-on-year).
At the same time, pricing trends have begun to normalize while used car prices rose earlier in the decade, indices such as the AUTO1 Group Price Index indicate more moderate growth of around 2–5% in 2025, with some softening in the second half of the year. Between February 2025 and February 2026, all european markets saw the residual values decline but those markets have higher levels of value retention compared to 2021.
Electrification is also reshaping the market, with used electric vehicle supply increasing across Europe, although price pressure remains higher in this segment due to faster depreciation and growing inventory.
Overall, the European used car market is transitioning into a more balanced phase, where professional dealers must focus on pricing discipline, stock quality, and transparency to remain competitive.
Increasing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles
One trend that has been gaining popularity in the imported used vehicle market in Europe is the demand for EVs. As the transition to electrified vehicles continues, pushed by government incentives and a larger range of choice within markets.
In particular, electric vehicles have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. This is due, in part, to advances in battery technology, which have made them more practical and affordable for consumers. For example, in the UK in February 2026, 22.381 used EVs were sold which is an all time record. Indeed, two years prior, the monthly sales of used EVs were around 7.500 vehicles when it is today around 20.000.
Hybrid vehicles, which use both a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric motor, are also becoming more popular in the imported used vehicle market in Europe. These types of vehicles offer the benefits of both electric and gasoline-powered cars, making them a more versatile option for consumers.
For used car professionals, it is important to educate yourself about these electrified vehicles. Discover our EV hub and learn valuable information about EVs.
Popular Models of 2025
In terms of specific models, the most sold cars of 2025 in Europe are in order the Renault Clio, then the Dacia Sandero. The Volkswagen T-Roc closes the podium in third place. These models are known for their reliability, comfort, and performance, making them a top choice for many car buyers.
In Germany, the most sold models are Volkswagen Golf, Audi A6 and Audi A4 when in France it is Renault Clio, Citroën C3 and Peugeot 208.
Trends within countries
The used car market fares differently depending on the country as each one has its own specificities. Indeed, compared to 2024, in 2025, the fastest growing market is Spain. It has been for the last 5 years. Its most popular powertrain is diesel representing half of this market.
In Italy, the number of used car transactions is up by 3.3%. In the UK, it is up by 2.2%, the biggest powertrain being petrol (almost 57% market share). But its strongest rise is BEVs with a year-on-year increase of 45.9%.
In France, the market stabilized but professional sales to consumers decreased by 2% due partially to the shortage of young used cars. This shortage has pushed for an increase in sales of older vehicles. In Germany, the market similarly stabilized with a persistent high price level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the imported used vehicle market in Europe is transforming, driven by electrification and shifting consumer preferences. Demand for electric and hybrid vehicles is rising, with EVs seeing a certain surge in popularity. The market is stabilizing after a period of volatility, with different countries exhibiting unique trends. As the market evolves, industry stakeholders must stay informed about the latest developments, particularly in electrification, to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate the shift towards a more sustainable future.
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