SUPERMINI models such as the Citroen Saxo, Renault Clio, Nissan Micra and Vauxhall Corsa are enjoying a period of price stability as supply struggles to keep up with demand from used car buyers, according to CAP.

But one sector offering a constant supply of stock is the mini-MPV market. Citroen Xsara Picasso, Renault Scenic and Vauxhall Zafira are becoming an ever more common sight around the auction halls, CAP reported, and in the present buoyant climate these cars are all finding homes.

But the guide warned: 'There is a feeling that as time goes on retail buyers will become increasingly reluctant to pay the premiums over hatchback variants that they do at present.'