Peugeot’s diesel sales were up 53.4 % in April, with what they describe as “strong Fleet sales performance.” While Kia report that they are already half-way towards their record-breaking total sales figure of 50,636 new cars in 2009 after just four months having doubled its share of the UK market to 3.4 per cent from 1.7 per cent last year.
This could be all be good news for the savvy car buyer in 12-24 months. Over the coming year Used Car Expert Magazine is hopeful that Kia’s surge in sales over 2009 and 2010 will see more cars being sold privately and at independent dealers. 3 and 4 year old cars, that still theoretically have some level of Kia warranty, will then start to become better value. The lack of stock in the market before now has meant very few cars get sold outside the main dealer network and as a result used car prices have been very tightly controlled.
While most of the diesel Peugeots will get returned as part of the lease deal within 2 years and sold as nearly new cars. Diesels still command a premium on the used car market, so an increase in ex-fleet cars entering the market may well soften prices.
Peugeot 308
An improvement on the very similar 307 in every way: Quality, ride, handling. But it looks fatter as a result.
Most economical: 1.6 HDI
Best used buy: 1.6 P
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 14
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: The difference between a one year old 1.6 diesel Peugeot 308 and a 1.6 petrol Peugeot 308 is as much as £2,500 despite the diesel showing an average mileage 3,000 more than the petrol. Bu this gap may close now.
Kia Cee’d
The Kia Cee'd is an impressive all-round family hatchback, with an even more impressive 7 year warranty. Essentially the same car as the Hyundai i30, so be sure to check both out.
Most economical: 1.6 CRDi
Best used buy: 1.6 CRDi
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: N/A
Used Car Expert magazine guide price: Prices on a 3 year old Kia Cee’d for example can be as much as £1,500 less outside the main dealer network, which is a saving worth having.