AutoTrader’s May Report

As we approach the mid-point of 2025, dealers are analysing their performance and stock to decide on operational direction for the rest of the year. The latest AutoTrader figures point to a growing market across all fronts, with EVs outperforming the rest. For dealers, this report could be a fantastic tool for optimising stock to grow sales potential.

👉 The Headlines In AutoTrader's Report

👉 What Does The Data Tell Us?

👉 Top Tips For Dealers

👉 Grow Your Sales Potential With A Committed Partner

The Headlines In AutoTrader’s Report

Here are the key findings that dealers must be aware of 👇.

• New car registrations are up by 2% against May 2024.
• May 2025 was the best May performance since 2021.
• New car registrations of electric vehicles (EVs) are massively outpacing the market, growing 26% year-on-year.
• Used car registrations grew 2% year-on-year in May 2025.
• 91% of visitors to AutoTrader feel confident that they can afford their next car.
• 69% of site visitors want to purchase their car in the next six months.
• Demand for used cars aged 3-5 years is falling.
• Strong growth in demand for 5–10-year-old cars.

What Does The Data Tell Us?

The market is performing well and showing positive signs for the rest of 2025. For car dealers, there is potential for improved performance, but choosing stock that sells will be key to realising this potential.

EVs Are The Golden Ticket

EVs grew by 26% in May 2025, significantly outpacing the market and showing an avenue for dealers to grow their margins. For dealers looking to maximise the potential of their stock, incorporating EVs presents a massive opportunity, and one that should be seriously considered.

Pick Your Used Cars Carefully

Used car registrations are growing, but it’s in the 5-10 year old models that this is being felt the most.

For dealers looking at their forecourt, cars in the 5–10-year bracket are selling for fun. Cars at this age have usually depreciated and present fantastic value for money, without the risk of further value losses. If you’re looking for a way to attract new customers, this could be your route.

Customers Are Ready To Buy

An AutoTrader survey found that most customers are both ready to buy and able to buy. With the growing demand for online car purchasing, dealers should review their processes and ensure the customer journey is seamless.

For those looking to buy in person, be aware that visitors will know what they want and how much they should pay. Treat them as experts and avoid treating them as newcomers. The growth of online searching means customers arrive at a dealership ready to walk away if the price isn’t right, with the power somewhat shifting to them. Don’t overcomplicate the car process, treat your potential customers as experts and streamline their experience.

Top Tips For Dealers

Based on the information provided, there are plenty of great opportunities to explore in the rest of 2025:

• Consider adopting more EVs into your arsenal.
• Explore used cars of 5-10 years of age.
• Customers are ready to buy when they enter the showroom. Ensure the buying journey is streamlined as such.

Grow Your Sales Potential With A Committed Partner

Add an experienced UK lender to your panel to improve your sales figures. With over 50 years of experience, we provide our partners with a compliance soundboard and sales support to ensure they maximise their potential.

Interested in seeing how we can help you?
Let’s have a chat.

(Source: AutoTrader)