Used car prices have rocketed this year, recording five years’ worth of growth in just six months, according to Auto Trader.
Rising demand post-lockdown and limited supply in both the new and second-hand markets have pushed up prices for 20 consecutive months and the average used car is now worth £17,366, £3,400 more than it was in May.
The growth has been seen in almost every segment as well, from superminis to supercars but while the average year-on-year rise is around 28%, some models have seen their value rise by as much as 50%, which is great news for sellers but not for buyers.
However, some cars have seen below-average growth and, in one or two cases, prices have fallen despite the strong market, offering the chance for buyers to bag a bargain.
Here, then, are the 10 used cars that have seen the largest price rises since November 2020, and the 10 that have seen the smallest growth or dropped in value. All figures are based on the Auto Trader Retail Price Index for November 2021.
5. Skoda Yeti. Price change: +43.8%
Skoda’s characterful crossover has always had a cult following but it’s clear that its funky looks and practicality have a broader appeal as well. Used examples of this car - discontinued in 2017 - are fetching an average of £12,316 Photo: Skoda
6. Peugeot 207 CC. Price change: +43.5%
A truly leftfield entrant in this list but it’s clear that some people must love the Peugeot’s peculiar looks and folding hard-top arrangement because value are up sharply compared with last year, to an average of £3,277. Photo: Peugeot
7. Jaguar XK. Price change: +43.2%
This sleek two-seat coupe is another older model that clearly still has plenty of appeal. Average values of this powerful sports car are holding strong at £29,123. Photo: Jaguar
8. Skoda Octavia. Price change +42.4%
The Octavia has long had a reputation as a spacious, dependable and affordable family car and that’s clearly doing wonders for used values, with the average example selling for £16,427 in November 2021. Photo: Skoda