A study of volumes of 16/66 plate vehicles in the market has revealed large numbers of SUV and Supermini. 

The SUV sector accounts for 24.5% of total volumes: Supermini 23%, Lower Medium 17%, City Car 10%, Upper Medium 10.5% and MPV 7.5%. 

James Dower, senior editor of Black Book at Cap HPI, said: “We see high volumes of 16/66 plate stock in the market. The popularity of the SUV sector is reflected in this study. And, while high demand is supporting values, it is clear that careful channel management is required.” 

More than 40,000 vehicles were analysed in the study, with an average advertised price of £20,313. 

Experts at Cap HPI say early snowfalls in January saw buyers in the SUV sector change gear as they made sure their forecourts were adequately stocked with the right models should winter take a hold.

Outside the larger volumes of the small and medium-sized classes, the larger and more capable models of this sector fared better than the market overall. 

The data company picks the Jeep Wrangler (07-16) models in both petrol and diesel, for special mention, which have seen good demand along with low volumes. This demand is driven by the conversion and enhancement market, where buyers pay a healthy premium for individuality and style. 

The Supermini sector performed more positively in January, with an overall reduction in values of 1.5% compared to January 2015, which saw a reduction of 1.9% at three years 60k. Even older vehicles over 10 years old in this sector have performed well, with values holding a steady position for the start of the year.

Retailers are now on the starting blocks hoping to surpass a strong 2016. With this level of positivity in the used car market, the scene is set, and all that is needed is strong retail demand.

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