- Used car of the month: Audi A5 Coupe (2011-2016)
- Used bike of the month: Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade (2008-2009)
Mycarcheck.com’s valuation experts reveal significant trends in the UK used vehicle market and choose a car and bike of the month.
Valuation services team manager at mycarcheck.com, Jon Wheeler, said: “If you’re looking for an affordable route into the premium sector, the 2011-16 Audi A5 coupe really stacks up as a used choice. Stylish and sleek, the build quality and interior are both excellent, and the four-rings badge is one of the most desirable around. Our choice would be the frugal 2.0TDi in S line guise. For something more powerful, the gutsy 3.0TDI is a fantastic middle ground, before the S5 and the epic 450bhp RS5. A well looked after A5 will run and run, so check before you buy and, if you can, go for one with full service history (fsh).”
As to market trends, Wheeler said: “Franchised dealers have had a tough few weeks, with the weather adding to an increasingly challenging market. As the ‘Beast from the East’ hit, not all customers managed to take delivery of their new 18 plate cars. In the new market, diesel cars continue to unfairly take the brunt of the hit, down 23.5% in February. In contrast, the used car market continues to thrive, with modern used diesel cars in high demand. In the short to medium term at least, we expect used diesel values to remain strong as supply will inevitably begin to dwindle.”
On the motorbike, scooter and moped sector, mycarcheck.com’s Mark Field said: “If you’re in the market for a legendary sports bike, but only have a relatively limited budget, the 2008-2009 RR-8 Fireblade should certainly be on your list. It may be lacking some modern rider aids, boasting just a slipper clutch and an electronic steering damper, but it is this simplicity that gives it its scintillating charm. Perfectly suited to road riding as well as the track, the beautifully responsive high revving 999cc engine, generating 175bhp, is enough to put a smile on anyone’s face. Expect to pay up to £6,000 for an average mileage example and, as always, check the history before you buy.”
As to market trends, Field said: “With the new 18 plate being launched this month, dealers are banking on a wave of quality used stock returning at the end of three-year PCP deals. Hopefully we have now seen the last of the ‘Beast from the East’. A nice long dry spell can only help sales, which are already looking strong compared to last year. Notably, new 126-650cc bike registrations are up 21.4%, and the over 1000cc category is up just over 8%. The overall picture shows an increase of just 1.2% above this time last year, hindered by a sizeable drop in the 0-50cc engine category. Many are attributing this to crime trends surrounding scooter thefts, but any drop in entry-level sales is always a concern.”
With information from the police, DVLA, insurers and finance houses, My Car Check holds comprehensive data on every vehicle on UK roads – things that buyers should be aware of before making an offer.
CDL Vehicle Information Services, which owns My Car Check, performs over a million look-ups a day for companies including AutoExpress, CompareTheMarket, Go-Compare, Moneysupermarket, Swiftcover and Tesco.
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