AUSTRALIA’S used car market has shown a rebound in sales in February, up a modest 2.2 per cent on January, but the number of listings has fallen.

The February 2025 edition of the Automotive Insights Report (AIR) – published by the AADA and AutoGrab – showed a modest rebound in used car sales (174,762 units) with Victoria up 7.0 per cent and NSW (3.8 per cent) leading the gains.

All states recorded a fall in the number of listings.

AADA CEO James Voortman said that while the increase in sales is a positive shift from January, the broader market remains in a state of adjustment.“With supply contracting and demand still below historical levels, it remains a competitive market for sellers,” he said.

“Average days to sell a used vehicle remained stable at 48.5 days, suggesting that vehicles are still moving at a steady pace, albeit with some regional fluctuations.”The report showed that listings are down 2.5 per cent across the board – passenger cars, utes and LCVs, specifically buses and vans – while SUVs posted a smaller retraction, down only 0.8 per cent.

James Voortman

But looking at total sales, there are increases in each of the four segments. SUVs are up 2.8 per cent while passenger cars rose 1.6 per cent in February, with utes up 1.9 per cent and LCVs buses and vans up 2.4 per cent.

In terms of vehicle powerplants, hybrids are the only segment to lift its listings volumes, up a mere 1 per cent, while PHEVs slipped the most, down 10.3 per cent. 

This can be attributed to availability as PHEVs have become the flavour of the month (due to expiring government tax incentives) with PHEV sales up 35.7 per cent in February, the biggest jump of the segments.

Electric vehicle sales rebounded, up 11.4 per cent, though retained values remain under pressure.In individual vehicle makes and models, the Suzuki Jimny continued its dominance in retained value rankings, holding the highest resale value among passenger cars and SUVs in both age brackets. 

The report said that with an impressive 108 per cent retained value, the Jimny has consistently outperformed larger and more expensive competitors, reflecting its strong demand in the market.

The Ford Ranger retained its position as Australia’s best-selling used car, with a 2.5 per cent increase in sales. 

This was followed by the Hilux (down 1.6 per cent); Corolla (down 1.9 per cent); RAV4 (down 6.1 per cent); Hyundai i30 (up 2.7 per cent); Mitsubishi Triton (up 1.9 per cent); Mazda CX-5 (up 4.4 per cent); Camry (up 3.4 per cent); Prado (up 2.5 per cent); and Mazda3 (up 3.0 per cent).

Japanese brands clearly dominated, taking eight of the top 10 best-selling models, with Toyota accounting for five of the top spots.

 AutoGrab’s Chief Commercial Officer, Saxon Odgers, said in a statement: “Australia’s used car market is showing strong signs of recovery, with demand stabilising and prices adjusting after recent volatility. 

“Increased consumer confidence, improved stock availability, and a more predictable supply chain are driving renewed activity.

“Dealers and sellers who adapt to shifting market conditions with competitive pricing and transparency will be best positioned to capitalise on this rebound.”

Saxon Odgers

Highlights summary:

•  Ford Ranger remains Australia’s best-selling used car, with sales up 2.5%
• Toyota stands out with five of the top ten best-selling models.
• Suzuki Jimny tops retained value rankings, holding 108% retained value
• EV sales surged 11.4%, though retained values remain under pressure.
• Used vehicle supply fell by 1.8%, with most states seeing fewer listings.
• VIC (7.0%) and NSW (3.8%) led sales growth.
• Average days to sell were steady at 48.5 days.