Europe Used Cars Market Size, By Vehicle, By Propulsion, By Battery Capacity, By End Use, Growth Forecast 2025 – 2034

Europe Used Cars Market Size

The Europe used cars market was valued at USD 725.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to register a CAGR of 4.6% between 2025 and 2034.  People with businesses escalate toward inexpensive transport solutions because of urban population growth and increasing cost of living. A used car presents better value than new vehicles as it costs less which attracts people with financial constraints and beginner drivers as well as small enterprises. The accessibility to used vehicles continues to grow because flexible financing solutions with leasing alternatives make them available to more people. As per Autovista 24, Germany used cars transactions grew in Q4 2023 by around 9% while its new car sales market declined by around 9.5%
 

The digital marketplace growth of used car dealerships has revolutionized the market trade by creating clear and streamlined operations. Online platforms offer complete vehicle background reports to shoppers combined with monetary assessment tools and financing resources which eliminate doubts and heighten trust between buyers and sellers. AutoScout24 and Mobile.de and Cazoo operate the used car market through online sales combined with delivery service and warranty policies. During 2021, the buying and selling of cars divided equally between consumers trading with each other using private methods and businesses serving as professional retailers.
 

Modern automotive production focuses on building vehicles with lasting characteristics which results in extended reliability across multiple years of car use. Basic manufacturing quality standards combined with better engineering methods alongside routine maintenance services enable used vehicles to retain good condition throughout their long usable lifetime. The enhancement of consumer trust for purchasing used cars has elevated market demand.
 

The Europe used cars market continue to rise because of inflation together with elevated raw materials costs and tougher emission regulations and technological innovations that include electric and hybrid powertrain systems. The higher purchasing affordability of used cars creates an appealing choice especially for price-conscious segments of consumers.
 

Europe Used Cars Market Trends

• The transition of Europe toward sustainability has resulted in an increasing demand for previously owned electric vehicles (EVs). The European governments implement incentives to promote EV adoption which leads to rising new EV sales and thus advances the used EV market expansion. Customer choice in the market remains affected by their reservations about battery longevity and charging network capabilities.
   
• During Q3 of 2024 the market sold 53,423 used battery electric vehicles which represented a 57% increase from the same quarter in the previous year. The market share for used BEVs grew substantially from 1.8% in the previous year to 2.7% because of the strong market demand.
   
• Costumers choose Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles because they offer proven quality standards with warranties along with multiple examination checks. Automakers and dealerships are enhancing their CPO programs because customers seek reliable used vehicles at prices below what new vehicles cost.
   
• Car subscription and leasing models are on the rise because they let consumers experience driving vehicles without long-term ownership responsibilities. Influenced by this changing market trend the used car segment experiences growing supply of high-quality second-hand cars because vehicle leaseholders return their vehicles to market.
   
• In 2024, rental sector used car sales rise by 9.4% in September and by almost 20% since the beginning of the year which demonstrates increasing availability of well-maintained vehicles in the used car market.
   

Europe Used Cars Market Analysis

Based on vehicle, the SUV segment held a market share of over 40% in 2023 and is expected to cross USD 292 billion by 2034.  
 

• SUVs provide enhanced driving elevation together with superior sight lines and roomy cabin areas that appeal to household groups and travelers who need to cover long distances. The versatility of travelling on urban streets and countryside conditions is a major point of interest that attracts customers. Many consumers judge SUVs as safer because of their sturdy structure along with their elevated ride height.
   
• The previous fuel efficiency concerns about SUVs have reduced after manufacturers introduced improved engine technologies which enabled hybrid powertrains and better mileage rating. Automakers now manufacture small crossover and compact SUVs that provide superior fuel economy while producing minimal pollution which makes them environmentally friendly for customers. European consumers have been selecting used cars that marry sustainability with functionality which occupies the growing segment of their market.
   
• The SUV segment comprises 51% of the global vehicle sales profile which Global Fuel Economy Initiative reported in 2022. SUV sales increases have driven average vehicles to grow substantially which results in enhanced fuel usage and elevated CO? pollution. SUV popularity grew so much that motor sector emissions would have been 30% lower compared to 2010 and 2022.
   
• Market share of SUVs was boosted by compact crossover vehicles entering the market. These new models combine the seating height along with cargo area and SUV design features from traditional SUVs but retain the fuel efficiency levels matched by hatchbacks and sedans. Due to their capability to fit urban spaces these vehicles have become popular among European cities featuring narrow streets and limited parking availability.
   

Based on the end use, the Europe used cars market is divided into personal and commercial. The personal segment was worth over USD 630 billion in 2024.
 

• The increasing European living expenses paired with inflation drive people toward buying less expensive used vehicles rather than brand-new models. Second-hand automobiles remain cost-effective while financing interest rates stay low and flexible loan options make personal ownership desirable, especially for new buyers along with those watching their budgets.
   
• Most Europeans continue to choose personal vehicle ownership because they value the flexibility combined with reliability and the enduring cost-saving aspects. Due to their restrictions on availability along with high peak-time costs and restricting long-distance travel used cars remain the preferred vehicle choice for personal transportation requirements.
   
• Most European consumers continue to choose buying their own personal car rather than using car-sharing options or subscribing to services despite their availability. A survey reveals that 33% of Europeans view car subscription options positively but most people keep their preference for personal car ownership because of ownership flexibility and convenience.
   
• Quarters of Customers in Europe maintain aspects like personal freedom together with convenience and lifestyle aspirations when they choose car ownership. Many European customers treat car buying as a long-term financial investment because it lets them travel independently and host weekend adventures with their families. New used car car choices paired with cost-effective pricing help customers select desired models which deepens the popularity of this market segment.
   

Based on fuel, the market is categorized into gasoline, diesel, hybrid, electric and others. The gasoline segment held a market share of 50% in 2024.
 

• The European authorities have established strict emission standards for diesel vehicles since these vehicles produce elevated quantities of nitrogen oxide (NOx) alongside particulate matter. Low Emission Zones (LEZs) and older diesel car bans from cities have decreased the value of used diesel vehicles so gasoline vehicles now dominate the used car market.
   
• Low maintenance expenses exist in gasoline vehicles because they lack the emission-compliant requirements of diesel particle filters (DPFs) and AdBlue systems. Somewhere in Europe gasoline vehicles benefit from preferred tax treatment while diesel cars do not, which results in lower buying costs for the long run.
   
• An overwhelming number of European buyers choose gasoline vehicles because they deliver a better driving experience for their daily urban needs. The efficiency of diesel engines improves while traveling longer distances yet they perform poorly in urban conditions because gasoline cars deliver better performance and quieter operation and fewer maintenance troubles when normal commuting occurs.
   
• The European Union recorded gasoline car registrations at 36.4% of their total new car registrations in 2023 simultaneously with diesel vehicles holding 16.4% of new car registrations. The long-running preference for gasoline-powered vehicles has led to a vast stock of such vehicles that remain available in the market for used cars.
   

Based on sales channel, the Europe used cars market is divided into peer-to-peer, franchised dealers, and independent dealers. The peer-to-peer segment is projected to grow fastest at the CAGR of 5% during the forecast period.
 

• People now buy and sell vehicles through AutoScout24 and Mobile.de and Leboncoin and eBay Motors using digital platforms that provide easy peer-to-peer transaction capabilities. The platforms show a wide array of vehicle options combined with detailed assessments and user evaluations that help customers perform direct market transactions with minimum involvement of middle agents.
• The process of buying from dealerships requires numerous paperwork procedures along with added costs and financing confirmation steps. Peers who conduct transactions with each other complete agreements directly without going through lengthy administrative processes. The easy process of P2P sales attracts numerous customers who prefer this option.
   
• Buyers and sellers can use peer-to-peer (P2P) in the used car market to directly negotiate prices at lower levels than dealership pricing therefore transactions become more economically efficient. Buyers who watch their budgets benefit from P2P private seller listings since their vehicles cost less than those available at dealership stores.
   

Western Europe dominates the Europe used cars market with a share of around 47% in 2024. The Germany leads the market was crossed USD 100 billion in 2024.
 

• The automobile manufacturers such as Volkswagen and BMW and Mercedes-Benz and Audi based in Germany contribute to substantial quantities of high-quality used car availability. Because of its reliable home manufacturing combined with high vehicle purchasing trends the country naturally maintains an extensive market for used automobiles. The German automobile market registered 2.8 million cars in 2024 while demonstrating a reduced figure than the preceding year.
   
• Most German consumers together with businesses decide to lease their new cars rather than acquiring them through ownership. A significant number of vehicles enter the pre-owned automotive market periodically due to leasing that maintains cars in new condition thus creating a continuous source of vehicles backed by maintenance records.
   
• Several national infrastructure elements support used car sales in Germany comprising numerous dealerships alongside CPO programs and their prominent online platforms Mobile.de and AutoScout24 which enable convenient domestic and international trades. The carefully designed market system combines to improve operational efficiency together with customer trust.  
   

The Europe used cars market in Italy is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Economic conditions together with expensive new vehicle prices lead Italians to favor buying used cars. Increasing expenses share and inflation rates drive Italians to choose pre-owned cars instead of new ones since these are more affordable which ensures market growth of used vehicles.
   
• The demanding urban environment of Italian cities composed of small streets along with significant congestion requires residents to buy vehicles with small sizes and high fuel efficiency. The Italian demand for small used cars creates a significant position for Italian buyers as leaders in Europe's second-hand automotive segment.
   
• Italy maintains a fully developed online used car platform through Subito and AutoScout24 and Autosupermarket which ensures easy point-to-point and dealer-based purchasing operations. The used car platforms serve to make the market more transparent and accessible which benefits both buyers and sellers and thus increases Italy’s prominence in the European marketplace.
   

The Europe used cars market in Denmark is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• New automobiles are charging extremely high vehicle registration fees in Denmark which elevates their total price. Multiple consumers choose used vehicles instead of new cars to save on expenses which drives up the market for pre-owned vehicle purchases.
   
• The Danish environmental rules push consumers toward getting newer vehicles that have lower emissions instead of their older high-emission cars so they can opt for used cars. The market for second-hand vehicles has grown rapidly due to customer preference for cheaper hybrid along with electric vehicles (EVs) instead of new vehicle purchases.
   
• Bilbasen and DBA.dk control most of the Danish automotive market because Denmark maintains its automotive sectors entirely digitalized. The platforms make it possible for consumers to search through information such as prices as well as history reports and financing choices to help them complete digital used vehicle transactions.  
   

Europe Used Cars Market Share

Top 5 companies leading the Europe used cars industry in 2024 are Emil Frey Group, Van Mossel, Gueudet, Cosmobilis/BymyCar and Eden Auto. Together, they hold around 1% market share in the market.
 

• Emil Frey has expanded rapidly through acquisitions which helped the company gain dominant positions in important European markets. Through major European acquisitions the company took full ownership of New and Used car sales platforms. Through strategic acquisitions the company expanded its brand variety and achieved better market standing.
   
• Van Mossel uses strong digital marketing and social media platforms while relying on its team members to generate audience engagement. Employee activism toward sharing business-related material on social networks has developed the company's brand reach and strengthened customer engagement according to published data.  
   

Europe Used Cars Market Companies

Major players operating in the Europe used cars industry include:

• AMAG Automobil und Motoren AG
• Bernard
• Chopard Lallier
• Cosmobilis/BymyCar
• Eden Auto
• Emil Frey Group
• Gueudet
• Van Mossel
• Yutong
   
• Leading companies operating in the European used car market actively form business alliances alongside business acquisitions to expand their market visibility. The strategic acquisitions and partnerships allow these organizations to build their client network while gaining entry to untapped markets which enhances their market dominance.
   
• Business firms allocate substantial resources to research and development for creating modern products which match advancing consumer requirements. The innovative approach leads them to produce modern vehicles containing advanced technologies which enhance their efficiency and cost-effectiveness as well as environmental friendliness.
   
• The growing requirement for sustainable transportation along with environmental rules motivates companies to develop a broad selection of electric vehicles. The company provides different EV options ranging from small vehicles to large SUVs that fulfill market segmentation needs.
   
• Companies lead environmental transportation evolution through their dedication to sustainable operations coupled with the creation of zero-emission vehicle technology development. Such brand reputation enhancement through this commitment serves to advance worldwide initiatives for carbon emission reduction.
   

Europe Used Cars Industry News

• In January 2024, Van Mossel made its first foray into Scandinavia by acquiring Mercedes-Benz CPH, a full-service dealer for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and vans in the Copenhagen region. This acquisition includes six locations and approximately 330 employees, marking a significant expansion into the Scandinavian market.
   
• In May 2023, Van Mossel acquired Hugo Pfohe GmbH, a German car dealership group with nine locations in northern Germany. This move enhances Van Mossel's presence in Germany and aligns with its European growth strategy.
   
• In December 2023, STELLANTIS introduced online direct sales of used cars in UK through Spoticar division. Consumers can now purchase from Stellantis Corby reconditioning center through spoticar.co.uk, with delivery available at Spoticar dealership.
   
•  For instance, in August 2023, Suzuki GB launched in-house approved Used Car Warranty, aimed at enhancing customer retention and boosting service, maintenance, and repair volumes for its dealer network.
   

The Europe used cars market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue ($Bn) and volume (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Vehicle

• Hatchback
• Sedan
• SUV
• Others

Market, By Fuel

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Hybrid
• Electric
• Others

Market, By Sales Channel

• Peer-to-peer
• Franchised dealers
• Independent dealers

Market, By End Use

• Personal
• Commercial

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • France
  • Switzerland
  • Belgium
  • Luxembourg
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
  • Rest of Western Europe
• Eastern Europe
  • Poland
  • Romania
  • Czechia
  • Slovenia
  • Hungary
  • Bulgaria
  • Slovakia
  • Croatia
  • Rest of Eastern Europe
• Northern Europe
  • UK
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • Finland
  • Norway
  • Rest of Northern Europe 
• Southern Europe
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Greece
• Rest of Southern Europe