People carriers 'continue to increase in sales'

Apr 9 2009

Sales of used people carriers have not been affected by the recession as much as other types of car, according to new research.

Figures released by global information services company Experian found that while overall, sales of larger used cars has fallen back in recent months, people carriers remain popular.

Kirk Fletcher, managing director at Experian's automotive division, said: "The latest used car sales statistics show that despite a greater focus on smaller, more economical vehicles, the fall in sales for the used super MINI and mini segments were still on a par with, for example, the upper medium and the sports segments."

He added: "It indicates that even in a downturn there is a certain degree of reluctance to downgrade in size."

Greater London was a particularly strong source of demand for used people carriers during the final three months of 2008, with the market growing by 19 per cent compared to the previous year.

Recent figures from the British Car Auctions (BCA) organisation have shown that the UK used car market has continued to grow during the first part of 2009, although the average price of a used car increased at a slower rate than previously.

The BCA has suggested the used car market may have peaked, meaning prices could begin to fall back by the end of the year.

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