Kia leads the charge as hottest used car brand in February

Kia models dominated the used car market in February, securing the top two spots for fastest-selling vehicles, according to Auto Trader.

The Kia Ceed (petrol, up to a year old) and the Kia Carens (5-10 years old) are taking an average of just 11 days to sell -significantly outpacing the overall market average of 29 days.

Driven by strong consumer demand, used cars are selling 10 days faster than last month, with the average sale time dropping from 39 days to 29 days.

This trend is reflected across multiple vehicle age groups. Notably, nearly new models (under 12 months old), such as the petrol hybrid Cupra Leon and the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE, are selling in just 14 days - an improvement from January’s 32-day average.

The acceleration in sales extends to other age categories as well. Used cars aged 1-3 years are now selling in 31 days (down from 43), while those in the 3-5-year range- currently the fastest-selling segment - are moving in just 27 days (down from 39).

However, not all used cars are flying off the forecourts. Vehicles aged 10-15 years are taking the longest to sell, averaging 39 days, slightly slower than January’s 38-day average.

When comparing fuel types, used electric vehicles continue to sell the quickest, averaging 29 days on the market - just ahead of petrol cars at 30 days. Both categories have seen an improvement of eight days compared to January.

Richard Walker, data and insight director at Auto Trader, commented: “The speed at which used cars are selling is a strong indicator of market health. As we approach the end of Q1 2025, it’s evident that the seasonal slowdown is behind us. The Kia Ceed’s continued popularity highlights its strong value, family-friendly practicality, and Kia’s industry-leading seven-year warranty. Its ability to sell two weeks faster than the national average underscores its appeal to car buyers.”