Global information services company, Experian, has published its Used Car Sales Index which shows that sales fell by 3%, compared to the same quarter last year.

Figures dropped from 1,804,871 in Q2, 2013, to 1,743,715 Q2, this year – within this small overall reduction, MPVs and 4x4s were the only car segments to experience an increase in sales in the quarter, rising by 3% and 2.6%.

Experian’s used-car data also showed that the biggest fall in sales came from upper and lower medium vehicles, with a 6% reduction, while superminis remained the most popular used car but still saw a decrease in sales of 1.6%.

The sale of diesel cars saw an increase of 2%, hybrid car sales climbed by 4% and electric car sales increased by 24%.

The focus for used-car buyers in the quarter was on newer used car models aged up to three-years-old, with sales rising by just over 1%.

Principal consultant for Experian’s automotive business, Andrew Ballard, said: “Car sales are seasonal and used-cars have availability considerations as well as demand, so the very slight 0.4% decline in sales figures in Q2 compared to the previous quarter is not a surprise as people can tend to replace their cars at the beginning of the year.

“What is evident, however, is that the demand for MPV and 4x4s is continuing to grow each quarter. For many people these cars fulfill the need for safer, larger family cars as well and being a lifestyle choice. For others, a 4x4 is a statement car with a much wider range of smaller more affordable models being produced that are now finding their way into the used market.

“Understanding where the demand is in the country and what the needs of those car buyers are will help organisations have more meaningful conversations with their customers.”