Motors.co.uk is warning dealers to be prepared for a strong second half to April, following a record level of leads in the seven day period following the Easter bank holiday.

Managing director of Motors.co.uk Andy Coulthurst said: “We have seen a strong surge in dealer used car leads in the seven days since Easter. While this may have been partly down to car shoppers searching over the Easter break, creating a peak of leads on the Tuesday, the uplift remains pronounced.

“Recent days are still producing a record volume of leads. However, while the fine weather we have been experiencing may have delayed visits to showrooms, dealers should expect a strong performance through the remainder of the month as the ‘heat wave’ continues.”

The warm weather has also resulted in an improved ahead-of-season interest in convertible cars, with all five top selling models last week coming from prestige brands:

1.         Mercedes Benz SLK

2.         BMW 1 Series Convertible

3.         Mini Convertible

4.         Mercedes Benz E Class Convertible

5.         Audi A3 Convertible

Coulthurst added: “Motors.co.uk performs well for luxury car brands, yet it is still surprising to see all five of the top spots taken between Mercedes Benz, BMW Group and Audi. The improved performance for convertibles may act as a reminder to dealers to focus on acquiring similar stock ahead of more consistent periods of sunny weather which are sure to be upon us in the next six weeks. Additionally, this extra notice allows dealers to profitably clear their forecourts of convertible stock acquired ahead of the traditional season.”