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The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
20 of the most popular used cars that have dropped in price in 2025 – including luxury SUV that's now £1,000s cheaper
BRIT drivers are in for a treat, with £1,000s slashed off the prices of some of the UK's most popular used cars in 2025. From the luxurious Lexus RX hybrid to the ever-reliable Nissan Leaf, a wide range of sought-after models are now more affordable than ever, according to new analysis by 5 The Tesla Model 3 is £1,000s cheaper this year, compared to the price of used models a year ago Credit: Getty 5 Lexus'RX has seen the steepest price drop, by over 30% Credit: AP 5 Other models, such as the VW Polo hybrid, saw price increases Credit: Getty 5 The Vauxhall Corsa and VW Golf also saw their prices increase this year 5 Many of the nation's favourite EVs and hybrids saw their prices decline This report particularly highlights a significant drop in prices for used EVs and hybrids, with some models depreciating by as much as 31% in the past year. The findings, based on the AA Cars Used Car Index, reflects a growing supply of second-hand EVs in the market, driven by ex-lease and fleet vehicles entering the forecourt. The Lexus RX (hybrid) saw the steepest price drop, with a 31% reduction, while the Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf EVs - perhaps the two cheapest small EVs on the market - dropping by 20-21%. Furthermore, the Tesla Model 3, one of the nation's most popular EVs, has lost over £4,400 in value, marking a 19% decline. Read more Motors News Overall, AA Cars found the average price of the most searched-for EVs and hybrids fell by 12.8% year-on-year. These falling EV prices are increasing accessibility for UK drivers, with AA Cars reporting record levels of searches for EVs and hybrids on their platform. But despite their newfound affordability, concerns still remain around charging infrastructure, battery range and long-term costs. While EV prices are falling, petrol and diesel values remain mixed. Most read in Motors Some models, such as the VW Polo hybrid, saw price increases - up 9.4% year-on-year - reflecting strong demand. Older models, such as the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus, experienced price drops of 11.7% and 6.6%, respectively. Mercedes' new CLA 250+ Sport is its most efficient and intelligent car ever but is spoiled by 'chavvy' feature Speaking on the findings, James Hosking, Director of AA Cars, said: 'Used EV prices have fallen off a cliff in the past year, and for drivers who've been priced out of electric motoring until now, this is a genuine turning point. 'We're seeing a growing wave of supply coming onto the used market, particularly as fleets and leasing firms de-fleet early-generation EVs and hybrids, and that's giving buyers more choice at more accessible prices. 'Our data shows that the price of almost every top EV or hybrid has dropped by double digits over the past 12 months, with some premium models down by more than 30%. "It's possible that some of this fall could be due to the age of EV models on sale getting higher. 'That kind of price movement is bringing greener vehicles within reach of thousands more households and could help to convert curiosity into action. 'The challenge is making sure buyers have the confidence to go electric. "Concerns around charging access, battery range and long-term running costs haven't gone away, and while falling prices are helping to shift EVs from a niche to a more mainstream choice, greater support is still needed to turn interest into long-term adoption. 'The Government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate means nearly a third of all new cars sold next year must be fully electric, but success hinges not just on supply; it depends on building real, lasting consumer demand. "The second-hand market is crucial to that journey, especially for private buyers who can't stretch to a brand new model. 'Petrol and diesel values, meanwhile, remain mixed. We've seen strong demand for newer stock like the VW Polo, but prices continue to fall on older models such as the Ford Fiesta. "This volatility shows that while headline prices may be stabilising, buyers are still being highly selective and savvy. 'Ultimately, the used market is a mirror to consumer confidence. The drop in EV prices will help accelerate the shift to zero-emission motoring, but continued investment in infrastructure, clear policy direction and compelling finance options will all be critical to turning this short-term price trend into a long-term behaviour change.'


Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
20 of the most popular used cars that have dropped in price in 2025 – including luxury SUV that's now £1,000s cheaper
It's also seen one of the nation's most popular EVs lose over £4,400 in value PRICE IS RIGHT 20 of the most popular used cars that have dropped in price in 2025 – including luxury SUV that's now £1,000s cheaper BRIT drivers are in for a treat, with £1,000s slashed off the prices of some of the UK's most popular used cars in 2025. From the luxurious Lexus RX hybrid to the ever-reliable Nissan Leaf, a wide range of sought-after models are now more affordable than ever, according to new analysis by AA Cars. Advertisement 5 The Tesla Model 3 is £1,000s cheaper this year, compared to the price of used models a year ago Credit: Getty 5 Lexus'RX has seen the steepest price drop, by over 30% Credit: AP 5 Other models, such as the VW Polo hybrid, saw price increases Credit: Getty 5 The Vauxhall Corsa and VW Golf also saw their prices increase this year 5 Many of the nation's favourite EVs and hybrids saw their prices decline This report particularly highlights a significant drop in prices for used EVs and hybrids, with some models depreciating by as much as 31% in the past year. The findings, based on the AA Cars Used Car Index, reflects a growing supply of second-hand EVs in the market, driven by ex-lease and fleet vehicles entering the forecourt. The Lexus RX (hybrid) saw the steepest price drop, with a 31% reduction, while the Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf EVs - perhaps the two cheapest small EVs on the market - dropping by 20-21%. Furthermore, the Tesla Model 3, one of the nation's most popular EVs, has lost over £4,400 in value, marking a 19% decline. Advertisement Overall, AA Cars found the average price of the most searched-for EVs and hybrids fell by 12.8% year-on-year. These falling EV prices are increasing accessibility for UK drivers, with AA Cars reporting record levels of searches for EVs and hybrids on their platform. But despite their newfound affordability, concerns still remain around charging infrastructure, battery range and long-term costs. While EV prices are falling, petrol and diesel values remain mixed. Advertisement Some models, such as the VW Polo hybrid, saw price increases - up 9.4% year-on-year - reflecting strong demand. Older models, such as the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus, experienced price drops of 11.7% and 6.6%, respectively. Mercedes' new CLA 250+ Sport is its most efficient and intelligent car ever but is spoiled by 'chavvy' feature Speaking on the findings, James Hosking, Director of AA Cars, said: 'Used EV prices have fallen off a cliff in the past year, and for drivers who've been priced out of electric motoring until now, this is a genuine turning point. 'We're seeing a growing wave of supply coming onto the used market, particularly as fleets and leasing firms de-fleet early-generation EVs and hybrids, and that's giving buyers more choice at more accessible prices. Advertisement 'Our data shows that the price of almost every top EV or hybrid has dropped by double digits over the past 12 months, with some premium models down by more than 30%. "It's possible that some of this fall could be due to the age of EV models on sale getting higher. 'That kind of price movement is bringing greener vehicles within reach of thousands more households and could help to convert curiosity into action. 'The challenge is making sure buyers have the confidence to go electric. Advertisement "Concerns around charging access, battery range and long-term running costs haven't gone away, and while falling prices are helping to shift EVs from a niche to a more mainstream choice, greater support is still needed to turn interest into long-term adoption. 'The Government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate means nearly a third of all new cars sold next year must be fully electric, but success hinges not just on supply; it depends on building real, lasting consumer demand. "The second-hand market is crucial to that journey, especially for private buyers who can't stretch to a brand new model. 'Petrol and diesel values, meanwhile, remain mixed. We've seen strong demand for newer stock like the VW Polo, but prices continue to fall on older models such as the Ford Fiesta. Advertisement "This volatility shows that while headline prices may be stabilising, buyers are still being highly selective and savvy. 'Ultimately, the used market is a mirror to consumer confidence. The drop in EV prices will help accelerate the shift to zero-emission motoring, but continued investment in infrastructure, clear policy direction and compelling finance options will all be critical to turning this short-term price trend into a long-term behaviour change.'


The Sun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
20 of the most popular used cars that have dropped in price in 2025 – including luxury SUV that's now £1,000s cheaper
BRIT drivers are in for a treat, with £1,000s slashed off the prices of some of the UK's most popular used cars in 2025. From the luxurious Lexus RX hybrid to the ever-reliable Nissan Leaf, a wide range of sought-after models are now more affordable than ever, according to new analysis by AA Cars. 5 5 5 5 5 This report particularly highlights a significant drop in prices for used EVs and hybrids, with some models depreciating by as much as 31% in the past year. The findings, based on the AA Cars Used Car Index, reflects a growing supply of second-hand EVs in the market, driven by ex-lease and fleet vehicles entering the forecourt. The Lexus RX (hybrid) saw the steepest price drop, with a 31% reduction, while the Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf EVs - perhaps the two cheapest small EVs on the market - dropping by 20-21%. Furthermore, the Tesla Model 3, one of the nation's most popular EVs, has lost over £4,400 in value, marking a 19% decline. Overall, AA Cars found the average price of the most searched-for EVs and hybrids fell by 12.8% year-on-year. These falling EV prices are increasing accessibility for UK drivers, with AA Cars reporting record levels of searches for EVs and hybrids on their platform. But despite their newfound affordability, concerns still remain around charging infrastructure, battery range and long-term costs. While EV prices are falling, petrol and diesel values remain mixed. Some models, such as the VW Polo hybrid, saw price increases - up 9.4% year-on-year - reflecting strong demand. Older models, such as the Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus, experienced price drops of 11.7% and 6.6%, respectively. Mercedes' new CLA 250+ Sport is its most efficient and intelligent car ever but is spoiled by 'chavvy' feature Speaking on the findings, James Hosking, Director of AA Cars, said: 'Used EV prices have fallen off a cliff in the past year, and for drivers who've been priced out of electric motoring until now, this is a genuine turning point. 'We're seeing a growing wave of supply coming onto the used market, particularly as fleets and leasing firms de-fleet early-generation EVs and hybrids, and that's giving buyers more choice at more accessible prices. 'Our data shows that the price of almost every top EV or hybrid has dropped by double digits over the past 12 months, with some premium models down by more than 30%. "It's possible that some of this fall could be due to the age of EV models on sale getting higher. 'That kind of price movement is bringing greener vehicles within reach of thousands more households and could help to convert curiosity into action. 'The challenge is making sure buyers have the confidence to go electric. "Concerns around charging access, battery range and long-term running costs haven't gone away, and while falling prices are helping to shift EVs from a niche to a more mainstream choice, greater support is still needed to turn interest into long-term adoption. 'The Government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate means nearly a third of all new cars sold next year must be fully electric, but success hinges not just on supply; it depends on building real, lasting consumer demand. "The second-hand market is crucial to that journey, especially for private buyers who can't stretch to a brand new model. 'Petrol and diesel values, meanwhile, remain mixed. We've seen strong demand for newer stock like the VW Polo, but prices continue to fall on older models such as the Ford Fiesta. "This volatility shows that while headline prices may be stabilising, buyers are still being highly selective and savvy. 'Ultimately, the used market is a mirror to consumer confidence. The drop in EV prices will help accelerate the shift to zero-emission motoring, but continued investment in infrastructure, clear policy direction and compelling finance options will all be critical to turning this short-term price trend into a long-term behaviour change.'


Irish Daily Mirror
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Irish Daily Mirror
Car expert shares warning with motorists over importance of vehicle's colour
A motoring expert has urged drivers to be cautious of one small decision when they purchase a new vehicle, which could end them up with some significant extra costs. Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, warned that picking the colour of a car can have some financial implications, as some manufacturers charge extra for specific colours. Paul shared that while the practice is not new, it can impact monthly repayments for those using finance agreements. He cited examples from Nissan and Skoda, illustrating how the costs vary between companies, reports the Express. Paul said: "It's entirely likely that anyone shopping for a new Nissan Qashqai might also have a Skoda Karoq on their shortlist. "Unless you want your Qashqai in red, you'll need to budget another €870 above the list price to cover the paint, whereas you can have your Skoda in any one of five colours including a pearl finish and so-called Exclusive Meteor Grey completely free of charge. "So, if you're not having your Qashqai in red, the cost of this mid-size SUV has jumped up by €390 - and most likely more than €820 - versus the Skoda." While the colour of a car may not affect its performance, for many motorists it could be crucial in deciding whether to buy a particular brand. Paul highlighted that Nissan is not alone in this approach, with companies like SEAT and Maserati also adopting distinctive rules and pricing structures regarding car colours. He concluded: "So whatever car you're looking at, don't get distracted by the shiny colours - and make sure you're not in the dark about what your favourite shade will cost you." Drivers are also being alerted to the pitfalls of purchasing a used car and the errors to be aware of. Key among these is neglecting to perform essential checks before forking out cash for the car. A study by AA Cars revealed a startling 79 percent of people bought a pre-owned vehicle without getting a professional check first. James Hosking, Managing Director of AA Cars, commented: "Buying a used car is a major financial decision, so it's concerning how many people aren't ticking off even the most basic checks. "Failing to thoroughly assess a car before buying it could mean missing warning signs that point to costly repairs down the line. It also makes it harder to know whether you're getting good value for money."


Auto Express
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Drivers take the biggest hit on ‘environmental' taxes
In case drivers were in any doubt about where so-called 'environmental taxes' hit hardest, then new figures from the UK's official Office of National Statistics spell out just how much we're coughing up to fund government expenditure. By far the biggest contribution drivers make to the national coffers comes from fuel duty, which is the cash the government rakes in from every litre of petrol or diesel you put in your tank. In total in 2024, that number hit the £24.6 billion mark. Fuel duty has been the biggest component of energy taxes since 1997, with a similar amount raised annually by schemes such as the Climate Change Levy on energy companies, which adds costs to domestic electricity bills - also paid by many drivers, of course. Advertisement - Article continues below Energy taxes form the biggest chunk of revenues falling under the ONS 'environmental tax' umbrella, but transport taxes are also a big component. Once again, drivers take the most punishment here, with motor vehicle duty paid by UK households and businesses as 'road tax' amounting to £8.2 billion. That means tax on motor vehicles make up almost £33 billion of the £54.2 billion raised by environmental taxes in 2024. The ONS describes these taxes as 'those whose base is a physical unit, for example, a litre of petrol or a passenger flight, that has a proven negative impact on the environment. These taxes should reduce the activity related to these units and therefore reduce negative environmental impacts'. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Last week former Prime Minister Tony Blair ran into trouble with the current Labour administration after saying the UK's net zero environmental policies were 'doomed to fail' and losing sway with voters. Jack Cousens, the AA's head of roads policy, responded to the latest figures by saying that 'drivers will be staggered' by the contribution they're making to environmental taxes, and that although most expect petrol and diesel car use to come with some sort of tax penalty 'the share of the tax-take will be a shock'. The AA also takes issue with the number of what it calls 'stealth taxes' on drivers levied by councils under the environmental banner. 'Environmental taxes now being levied by councils, including those that can reasonably be labelled as stealth taxes, include CO2-related residents parking permits, diesel-related residents parking permits, diesel-related public parking charges, workplace parking levies, city or town parking costs where the council has stated a CO2 justification for high fees,' says Cousens, calling for 'the huge amount of money collected by them to be accounted for, and laid bare to the public.' Our Car Tax Checker tool lets you check your tax status and renewal date in seconds. Check your VED car tax now... Find a car with the experts Ford Fiesta set to return? Icon could be reborn with a little help from Volkswagen Ford Fiesta set to return? Icon could be reborn with a little help from Volkswagen The Ford Fiesta could be coming back from the dead, and our exclusive image previews how it might look New Renault 4 2025 review: as good as the Renault 5 with the bonus of extra space New Renault 4 2025 review: as good as the Renault 5 with the bonus of extra space The new Renault 4 takes everything that's good about the Renault 5 and adds extra cabin and boot space New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645 New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645 All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles