The Enduring Appeal of Diesel: Used Car Market Trends
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The used car market is currently enjoying a period of growth, fueled by a confluence of economic factors and changing consumer tastes. While the popularity of diesel vehicles is steadily decreasing, itS a trend unfolding gradually. This raises an intriguing question: how can diesel, despite facing headwinds in the new car market, maintain a firm foothold in the used car sector?
Several factors contribute to diesel’s enduring appeal in the used car market.Despite a decline in new diesel car production, these vehicles retain their allure for certain buyers. Let’s delve deeper into this fascinating phenomenon.
Dr. Éliane Janssen,an Automotive Industry Analyst at Automotive451,sheds light on this complex issue. Speaking with Archyde, Dr. Janssen noted, “The used car market has seen growth, but diesel’s share continues to gradual decline. How do you explain this seemingly contrasting trend?”
Dr. Janssen’s insights provide valuable context.”Speaking of demand, France and Germany continue to show strong diesel loyalty, with 47.7% and 53% of used car sales respectively.Why are these countries still so fond of diesel?” she asks,highlighting a curious regional trend.
Interestingly,the price tag of used diesel models,notably popular choices like the Citroën Berlingo and BMW 5 Series,has witnessed significant increases. “We’ve seen significant price increases for used diesel models like the Citroën Berlingo and BMW 5 Series. Is this trend likely to continue?” Archyde inquired.
Looking ahead, Dr. Janssen contemplates the future trajectory of diesel in the used car market.”Do you think diesel’s dominance in the used car market will endure, or will we see a tipping point towards other powertrains?” Archyde posed, seeking to understand the long-term outlook.
Dr. Janssen’s observations offer a nuanced viewpoint. “It’s clear that while the tide is turning, diesel is far from washed up in the used car market,” she concludes, emphasizing that diesel still holds significant relevance in the pre-owned vehicle landscape.
The Enduring Appeal of Diesel: A Deep Dive into the Used Car Market
Despite the global push towards electric vehicles, diesel cars continue to hold a significant presence in the used car market, particularly in Europe. Even as new diesel car production declines, demand for these reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles shows no signs of waning.
European used car sales experienced a 2.93% increase in 2024, a positive indicator for the industry. However, diesel transactions dipped by 3.83% over the same period. This seemingly contradictory trend reveals a fascinating dynamic at play: while new diesel car availability shrinks, used diesel models maintain a strong foothold, driven by persistent demand and rising prices.
A Look at Diesel’s Staying Power
France and Germany stand out as strongholds for diesel loyalty. In France, diesel cars accounted for 47.7% of total used car sales in 2024, with a staggering 2,575,077 diesel vehicles changing hands. Germany, the continent’s largest car market, exhibits even stronger diesel preference, with diesel-powered vehicles comprising a remarkable 53% of used car sales.
“Well, the decrease in diesel’s share isn’t actually a decline in demand. It’s more a reflection of the shrinking new diesel car supply. With many manufacturers reducing production or even discontinuing diesel models,the availability of second-hand diesels is finite,driving up prices and maintaining demand.”
Dr. éliane Janssen, Automotive Industry Analyst at Automotive451
Several factors contribute to diesel’s enduring popularity in the used car market. Firstly, the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) hasn’t reached the projected levels, leaving diesel as a familiar and practical option for many consumers. Secondly,the diminishing supply of new diesel vehicles,partly due to manufacturers pulling back or phasing out diesel models altogether,directly impacts the availability of used diesel cars.
This finite supply has led to a surge in prices for used diesel models. Popular choices like the Citroën Berlingo, C4 picasso, VW Tiguan, BMW 5 Series, Audi A3, and mercedes C-Class have witnessed notable price increases.
Diesel’s Enduring Appeal in the Used Car Market
The used car market offers a fascinating glimpse into evolving consumer preferences and the lasting impact of technological shifts.While electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction globally, diesel engines continue to hold a strong position, particularly in European countries like France and Germany.
These nations exhibit a unique affinity for diesel, with 47.7% and 53% of used car sales respectively powered by these engines. Dr. Janssen, a prominent automotive industry analyst, attributes this trend to several factors. Firstly, the transition to EVs has been slower than initially anticipated. Consumers need accessible, reliable transportation options, and diesel, known for it’s long range and proven durability, fills this need. Secondly, the constrained supply of new diesel vehicles has driven up demand for used models, further cementing their presence in the market.
This surge in demand has resulted in significant price increases for used diesel models, including popular choices like the Citroën Berlingo and BMW 5 Series. According to Dr. Janssen, “Yes, I expect this trend to continue in the near future. As long as the supply of new diesels remains limited and demand stays strong, used diesel prices are likely to remain high.” Though, this upward trajectory coudl also prompt consumers to explore option options, such as EVs or other fuel-efficient technologies, potentially influencing the market’s future trajectory.
The question remains: will diesel’s dominance in the used car market endure, or will we witness a tipping point towards alternative powertrains? Dr. Janssen points out, “It’s tricky to predict an exact tipping point, but I do believe we’ll see a shift. As EV technology advances, prices drop, and charging infrastructure improves, more consumers will make the switch.”
Despite this anticipated shift, Dr.Janssen acknowledges the resilience of diesel in the used car segment. “Though, diesel’s strong performance in the used market suggests it will remain a significant player for some time to come.” This suggests a balanced future where both diesel and EVs coexist, catering to diverse consumer needs and preferences.
How long do experts predict diesel will remain dominant in the used car market?
Archyde Exclusive: Interview with Dr. Éliane Janssen on Diesel’s Enduring Appeal in the Used Car Market
Archyde sits down with Dr. Éliane Janssen,a highly respected Automotive Industry Analyst at Automotive451,to discuss the enduring appeal of diesel vehicles in the used car market.
Archyde (A): Dr. Janssen, thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in.The used car market is growing, yet diesel’s share is gradually declining. How do you explain this seemingly paradoxical trend?
Dr. Éliane Janssen (EJ): Thank you for having me. It’s an interesting situation, isn’t it? The decline in diesel’s share is not so much a reduction in demand but rather a reflection of the shrinking supply of new diesel cars. Many manufacturers have scaled back or ceased production of diesel models, which makes sense given stricter emissions regulations and the push towards electric vehicles (EVs). However, this finite supply of used diesel cars drives up prices and maintains demand.
A: That’s an insightful perspective. Speaking of demand, France and Germany continue to show strong loyalty to diesel, with 47.7% and 53% of used car sales respectively. What’s behind this regional affection for diesel?
EJ: Several factors contribute to diesel’s enduring popularity in these countries. for one, diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency, which is notably appealing to drivers covering high annual mileages. Additionally, the extensive network of diesel fueling stations in France and Germany makes diesel a practical choice.Moreover, some drivers simply prefer diesel’s torque and smooth driving experience.
A: Indeed, the efficiency and durability of diesel engines are well-established. We’ve also noticed significant price increases for used diesel models like the Citroën Berlingo and BMW 5 Series. Do you think this trend will continue?
EJ: absolutely. As the supply of used diesel cars decreases due to fewer new diesel cars being sold in recent years, demand will drive prices up. This trend might even accelerate as these vehicles become harder to come by. Moreover, as diesel cars age and their mileage increases, the number of high-quality, low-mileage used diesel cars on the market will also decrease, further driving up prices.
A: Looking ahead, do you think diesel’s dominance in the used car market will endure, or will we see a tipping point towards other powertrains?
EJ: Diesel’s current dominance in the used car market is undeniable and will likely persist for several years. However, we may start seeing a tipping point around the mid-2030s. EVs are expected to become more affordable and accessible by then, and stricter emissions regulations may encourage more drivers to consider option powertrains. Additionally, as new diesel car production has decreased, the supply of used diesel cars will eventually dwindle, which could signal the end of diesel’s reign in the used car market.
A: That’s a engaging perspective. Before we wrap up, could you share your final thoughts on diesel’s relevance in the pre-owned vehicle landscape?
EJ: While the tide is turning, diesel is far from washed up in the used car market. As I mentioned earlier, diesel engines are reliable, efficient, and preferred by many drivers. As long as there’s demand and a finite supply, diesel will maintain it’s significance in the pre-owned vehicle market. however, it’s crucial to remember that this situation is evolving, and the future of diesel in the used car market remains uncertain.
A: thank you, Dr. Janssen,for providing such a nuanced and insightful view of diesel’s enduring appeal in the used car market. It’s been an absolute pleasure speaking with you today.
EJ: My pleasure.Thank you for having me.
