Petrol is the UK’s most popular used car fuel type, accounting for three times as many sales as diesel during Q2, according to new auction data from Autorola.

2023 has seen the biggest move to petrol and away from diesel, according to Autorola

Used petrol cars accounted for 60.6% of Autorola’s online sales to wholesale buyers from April to June – significantly higher than the 39.7% share when it came to new car petrol registrations in June. Diesel was a distant second, with just 21.3% of sales. Hybrids and EVs comprised 7.9% and 10.2% respectively.

“2023 has seen the biggest move to petrol and away from diesel we have experienced,” said Jon Mitchell, Autorola’s group sales director.

“Dealers are reporting that many drivers unsure as to which fuel type of used car to buy are playing it safe and purchasing a petrol. That does not help the cause of EVs or hybrids, but it does mean that used car sales remain strong,” he added.

Autorola data reveals average used prices in Q2 were £14,975, a rise of £51 over Q1 despite average age and mileage rising by four months and 1,041 miles during the second quarter to 45 months and 25,130 miles.

Used diesel prices in Q2 were also consistent despite the move to petrol, standing at £17,856 with an average of 51 months and 37,676 miles. It’s the highest average age Autorola has reported and shows how the new car supply challenges have impacted replacement cycles.

“Despite being written off multiple times, used diesel cars are still in demand and prices are strong even if they have reached their highest average age,” Mitchell added.

With new car supply now improving, the coming September plate change could bring new trends.

“We may see the average age of used cars continuing to rise as extended contract cars work through the system, while prices may also slow down if volumes start to rise.”