Independent used car dealers are enjoying unusually strong late summer retail sales, according to the latest research by CAP Automotive.

In a survey of 98 dealers across Britain, 67% reported that August brought an increase in used car sales compared with July.

What’s more, only two members of CAP’s Dealer Insight Panel predicted a ‘slight decline’ in trade over the next quarter, with the rest expecting to at least maintain their current level.

Mike Hind, of CAP (pictured), commented: “It is clear that the UK car market in general is leading the way when it comes to the recovery of consumer confidence.

“This is, of course, helped by the fact that so many consumers are contrasting the returns they will get from a typical savings account with the benefits they’ll get from replacing their car.

“Dealers are still crying out for good part-exchanges and are prepared to offer very good prices for the best examples.”