The latest data from the report shows that the increase in value corresponds with a drop in average age, from 53 months in December 2014 to the current figure of 48 months. In conjunction with this decline in age, average mileage also decreased by 1,899 to 59,575.

Looking at the performance of vehicles that went under the hammer in more detail, January saw prices increase across all 10 sectors covered in the report. A notable appreciation of value is seen with the 4x4s, with average price increasing from £13,458 to £14,097. This could be due to the usual seasonal trend of buyers snapping up the hardy, winter-ready vehicles as the cold weather continues to bite.

Daren Wiseman, valuation services manager at Manheim, commented: ‘January’s monthly report on the de-fleet sector shows that the market remains largely buoyant. 2015 has certainly been a strong performing month for the majority of the sector, which is evidenced by the value increase in all ten segments analysed in the monthly report. Post Christmas is always a busy time for the de-fleet sector and this year is no different.

‘As I said last month, new car sales being at their highest point in ten years in 2014 is likely to affect the volume of de-fleeted vehicles making their way to auction in the next twelve months. To try and help maintain January’s solid growth, it’s important that leasing companies are sensible with their remarketing strategies and make best use of the full suite of channels offered by Manheim.

‘All in all, these figures should be a source of some encouragement for the de-fleet sector, as we gear up for what will hopefully be a busy year.’