The UK’s used car market showed signs of renewed activity in February 2025, with vehicles spending fewer days in stock and a surge in demand for pre-owned Teslas, according to the latest Retail Insights Report from online marketplace heycar.
Tesla Model 3 Leads the Charge in Used EV Market
The Tesla Model 3 emerged as the most searched-for used electric vehicle in February, surpassing the Audi Q4 and Audi e-tron. Interest in the compact Tesla picked up significantly following a typically slow start to the year in January.
This rising demand aligns with the increased availability of used Tesla models, driven by the end of leasing contracts. “Things may well change in the coming months, but demand among used EV buyers for Tesla was strong in February, with the brand experiencing one of the lowest days in stock,” noted Dermot Kelleher, Chief Marketing Officer for heycar.
Tesla models now spend an average of just 25.3 days in stock, making them one of the fastest-selling used car brands, second only to Volvo, which leads at 22.6 days.
Stock Turnover Accelerates as SUV Popularity Endures
Overall, the average time a used car spent in stock dropped significantly from 43.4 days to 34.4 days. This faster turnover suggests growing buyer confidence and heightened demand across the sector.
SUVs remain the dominant choice among UK used car buyers, with nine out of the top 15 most-searched models on heycar in January 2025 belonging to this category. The Nissan Qashqai and Audi Q3 led the pack as the most sought-after vehicles, followed by the Audi A1.
“Buyers continue to favour models that offer a strong all-round value package,” Kelleher explained. “While there is a strong bias towards premium brands and image, it’s in the context of family practicality and size, price, and equipment. The Qashqai continues to be the go-to model for ticking all of those boxes.”
EV Interest Expands Beyond Premium Brands
Interest in electric vehicles also grew in February, with Tesla, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz commanding significant attention. However, more budget-friendly models such as the Hyundai Kona Electric, MG ZS EV, MG4, and Nissan LEAF also saw strong search volumes, highlighting the increasing role of affordability in EV adoption.
As the supply of used EVs broadens and prices become more accessible, first-time EV buyers are demonstrating greater willingness to explore alternatives beyond established premium brands.
With used car availability improving and days in stock decreasing, the market appears to be regaining momentum, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers navigating the evolving landscape of the automotive sector.
