Honda has introduced online purchasing via its www.honda.co.uk website for all approved used cars. The move, intended to boost business for Honda retailers by offering another route to market, enables customers to source cars from the nationwide dealer network.

They have the option of e-mailing the dealership for further information, visit the dealer's website or order and complete the purchase of the vehicle online.

Simon Laughton, Honda used car development manager, said: “The ability to not only select a car via the internet but also order online is convenient, potentially saving our customers time and effort in making a used car purchase.

“The process fits in with our philosophy of offering 'no inconvenience' to our customers.”

Honda stressed that the website would not bypass the dealer network. All cars will be sold through dealers, with no impact on commission levels.

A Honda spokesman said: “Customers will be able to track down a car that meets their needs and purchase online. The no inconvenience factor will help dealers to sell more used cars more easily.

“We expect a fairly modest initial take-up as people still like to see and feel the car.”

He expects volume cars to account for most of the online purchases rather than specialist models. A 2.0i 4dr Accord was the first completed online sale.