Used car stock hits 2026 high as EV interest rises

September 2026 saw used‑car inventories rise to their highest level of the year, with dealers averaging 59 vehicles across supermarkets, franchised and independent outlets, according to Cazoo’s Market View. The increase coincides with growing consumer interest in electric models.

Key takeaways

• Average stock hit 59 cars in September, up from 58 in August.
• Average advertised price rose 0.4% month‑on‑month to £17,484.
• EV listings increased 17.6% year‑on‑year, with ad views more than doubling.
• Cars over ten years commanded higher prices, up 10.8% YoY.

Record stock levels across dealer segments

Dealers stocked an average of 59 used cars in September, up from 58 in August and 56 a year earlier. Car supermarkets held the largest inventories at 221 vehicles, franchised dealers averaged 63 and independents 44.

Petrol models still dominate listings at 51% of stock, down from 52.8% a year ago, while diesel’s share slipped to 29.9% from 30.8%.

Stable pricing despite larger supply

The average advertised price rose 0.4% month‑on‑month to £17,484, though it remains 0.9% below the £17,650 recorded a year ago. Prices have stayed below that level since May.

Franchised retailers saw the fastest price growth, with averages climbing 0.9% to £22,707. Supermarkets rose 0.6% to £16,833, while independents fell 0.1% to £14,186 but were still 9.9% higher than a year ago.

Electric and hybrid vehicles gain traction

EV listings were up 17.6% year‑on‑year and 2% higher than August, with electric cars accounting for 4.3% of advert views, up from 2.4% a year earlier.

Hybrid stock grew 2.7% year‑on‑year and 3.7% month‑on‑month, and hybrid advert views rose from 5.8% to 7.5% over the past twelve months.

Older used cars see price growth

Cars older than ten years averaged £7,704, a 10.8% year‑on‑year increase. Vehicles aged five to ten years fetched £13,554, up 3.6% YoY, while cars under two years fell 1.3% to £29,129.

Ford was the most viewed brand on Cazoo, followed by Volkswagen, Mercedes‑Benz, BMW and Vauxhall. The Volkswagen Golf remained the platform’s most searched model throughout the year.

What this means for dealers

Higher stock levels combined with rising EV interest suggest dealers can maintain competitive pricing while expanding electrified inventory. The continued demand for older, affordable cars provides a buffer against price pressure on newer models.

Dealers should monitor economic and geopolitical developments that could affect confidence, and consider balancing stock between traditional and electric offerings to meet evolving buyer preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Why have used‑car inventories increased in September 2026?

Dealers added stock across all three retail sectors, with supermarkets, franchised and independent outlets all reporting higher average vehicle counts. The boost reflects a strategic response to sustained buyer demand and the need to offer a broader selection, especially as electric models become more prevalent.

What does the rise in EV listings mean for dealer pricing?

The surge in EV listings, up 17.6% year‑on‑year, has not yet driven down average prices; instead, strong buyer interest helps uphold pricing levels. Dealers can expect continued price stability for EVs as ad views double, providing an opportunity to profit from higher‑margin electric stock.

Should dealers adjust their stock of older vehicles?

Yes. Older vehicles are seeing notable price increases – over ten‑year‑old cars rose 10.8% year‑on‑year – indicating solid demand for affordable options. Maintaining a healthy proportion of older stock can attract price‑sensitive buyers and support overall profitability amidst a growing focus on newer electric models.