##UsedReport2003--left##THE motivation behind customers in the used car market is revealed in the 2003 Used Car Market Report, from BCA Europe and Sewells Information and Research.

The report contains the results of a representative survey of 2,900 UK adults aged 17 years and over, carried out in June 2003.

For those dealing with used cars this is a valuable insight into the mind of the used car buyer.






Key findings include:

Choosing their current car

When asked what are the key factors in choosing their current used car, the highest response recorded was 'to get the best possible price'. 'Wanting a specific make/model was the next highest response was 18%, followed by 'specific dealer had the car I wanted (16%), 'dealers are more reliable and trustworthy' (13%) and 'I could trade in my existing car' (13%).
Getting the 'cheapest price' (3%) was not perceived as being important, indicating the 'get what you pay for' mentality among UK motorists.

Choosing the car

Hatchbacks remain the most popular car type, favoured by 48% of motorists, followed by saloons at 30% - up by one point from last year – while estates represent the choice of 7%. The off-road, sports/coupe and MPV sectors each represent 4% of the market, while prestige cars are driven by 1%.

Diesel power

The rising demand for used diesel cars from motorists shows no signs of slowing and mirrors strong sales in the new car sector. Nineteen per cent of motorists had bought a diesel car, up from 15% last year. The report says this trend is likely to continue, particularly as new sales are expected to reach 30% of the marketplace in 2004 according to the SMMT.

When asked why they buy diesel, 'better fuel consumption' was stated as a reason by 65% of motorists. 'The engine lasts longer' and 'more reliable engine' was cited by 41% and 33% respectively. Only 13% chose diesel for environmental reasons.

Buy the report

  • Copies of the Used Car Market Report 2003 are available from Sewells Information and Research on 01733 468255 – price £125.00

    (The report is based on information from Omnicar, the SMMT and other industry and trade bodies and was prepared with the assistance of Prof Jonathan Brown, of the automotive marketing and distribution specialists HWB International. The report also contains bespoke consumer research carried out by BMRB International for BCA. It is based on interviews with 2,900 respondents aged 17 years and over)