Strong demand for used niche models

RETAIL demand for the Mini has led to an increase in used car values for the marque as retail customers shun waiting lists for new models.

Instead, a rising number of customers are preferring to pay top prices for used models. Other mainstream marques are also generating high demand, according to CAP Black Book Platinum Plus.

Senior editor Tony Styles said: 'Today's market is characterised by particularly strong demand for niche cars. Many people are determined to stand out from the crowd and are prepared to pay a premium to achieve this.

'While elsewhere in the market list price serves only as a starting point for negotiations, some cars are perceived to be worth paying extra.'

CAP research has also shown that the Volvo C70 convertible 2.0 automatic, the Audi TT Roadster 1.8 and the Smart City Coupe are all achieving high list prices.