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.
9. Ford S-Max. Price change: +41.3%
Our third people carrier proves that despite the rise of the SUV, some families value space and ease of use above all. The S-Max has just been updated but used examples are still performing strongly, costing an average of £13,743. Photo: Ford
10. Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris has been around for more than two decades and been crowned the UK’s most reliable used car multiple times, so it’s no wonder used prices for this supermini are on the up. An average model will set you back £12,782. Photo: Toyota
11. Volkswagen Jetta. Price change: +2.6%
The Jetta is the first of our “bag a bargain” options. The unloved saloon version of the evergreen Golf never sold well in the UK and its modest increase this year is a 10th of the national average. You can pick one up for £5,081 on average. Photo: Volkswagen
12. Audi A4 Cabriolet. Price change: +1.6%
Despite good looks and a prestige badge there hasn’t been much demand for this four-seat convertible in recent months. If you fancy some top-down winter fun an average example will set you back £4,354. Photo: Audi