According to a survey conducted by Deloitte between September and October 2021, about 10 percent of car intenders in India said they would prefer to buy their next vehicle fully virtual, the highest value among all markets surveyed.

According to a survey conducted by Deloitte between September and October 2021, about 68 percent of car intenders in South Korea stated convenience as the main reason why they would prefer to buy their next vehicle fully or partial virtual, the highest value among all markets surveyed.

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The online car buying market share is expected to increase by USD 214.41 million from 2021 to 2026, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 12.4%.

This online car buying market research report provides valuable insights into the post-COVID-19 impact on the market, which will help companies evaluate their business approaches. Furthermore, this report extensively covers the online car buying market segmentations by Class Type (pre-owned and new vehicle) and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The online car buying market report also offers information on several market vendors, including American City Business Journals Inc., Asbury Automotive Group Inc., AutoNation Inc., CarGurus Inc., CarMax Inc., Cars & Bids LLC, Cars.com Inc., Cars24 Services Pvt. Ltd., CarSoup of Minnesota Inc., Carvago, Carvana Co., Cox Enterprises Inc., eBay Inc., Edmunds.com Inc., Hendrick Automotive Group, Lithia Motors Inc., MH Sub I LLC, Miami Lakes Automall, and TrueCar Inc., among others.

What will the Online Car Buying Market Size be During the Forecast Period?

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Online Car Buying Market: Key Drivers, Trends, and Challenges

The research studied the historical data considered for years, with 2021 as the base year and 2022 as the estimated year, and produced drivers, trends, and challenges for the global online car buying market.

Key Online Car Buying Market Driver

The increasing adoption of e-commerce and technological advancements in online channels are key factors driving the global online car buying market growth. Technological advancements such as the development of smartphones and rising Internet penetration are spurring the use of e-commerce applications to boost the sales of businesses, while the introduction of hybrid and electric vehicles has changed the buyers' position in the global online car buying market. With the aid of online technology, consumers are learning more about the vehicle, the on-road prices of new automobiles, residual value, third-party profit margins, and other factors for used cars. Additionally, growing urbanization, an increase in Internet connectivity, and the growth of the telecom industry have made it possible for the general public to access information much more easily. Online car dealers are increasingly using these factors to advertise their vehicles and disseminate information about them. The sale process has been streamlined on web platforms, which also makes it possible for more stakeholders to sell and acquire used cars. Thus, the growing e-commerce industry and the increasing adoption of technological advancements by vendors will propel the growth of the global online car buying market during the forecast period.

Key Online Car Buying Market Trend

Easy online financing will fuel the global online car buying market growth. Financing options are widely available on many car-buying websites, which encourages customers to get preapproval for loans before they even start looking for cars on their websites. According to a survey, 71% of customers choose to finance through the site where they purchased their car. These customers are highly satisfied with the financing options available on car-buying websites. Hassle-free loan applications and favorable interest rates attract more customers to opt for online financing options. For instance, AutoNation Inc. provides hassle-free auto financing options for every customer according to his or her needs and requirements. The company offers a wide range of finance programs that makes auto financing simple and clear. To provide a variety of financing and leasing alternatives, AutoNation has partnered with hundreds of banks in the US. Owing to such easy financing options, customers are attracted to online car-buying options. Thus, the availability of hassle-free and paperless online auto finance provided by car-buying websites will fuel the growth of the global online car buying market during the forecast period.

Key Online Car Buying Market Challenge

Limited customer awareness and acceptance in semi-urban and rural areas are the major challenges to the global online car buying market growth. Buying a car online is still an urban concept despite its prevalence and its numerous advantages. The acceptance of buying a car through online channels is low in semi-urban and rural areas. Buying cars online has not penetrated a large portion of the population, particularly in developing countries such as India. In emerging economies, including India, China, and Indonesia, a car is considered a status symbol. Thus, customers in such countries generally prefer to buy a car through physical stores where they can physically inspect the features of the car. For the middle-class population, buying a car is a major in

In the 2021 fiscal year, Carvana recorded more than 425,000 in retail units sold, which represents an increase of around 74 percent from 2020. The company has recorded a continuous increase in retail units sales over the years, and from 2015 to 2018, a growth rate of more than 100 percent was recorded every year. Carvana is a U.S. based online used-car retailer company headquartered in Arizona.

The U.S. online car dealer market was around 43.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2021. The market is expected to grow by around 4.7 percent year-on-year to reach some 45.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2022.

Over ** percent of new car buyers in the United States between September 2020 and August 2021 identified as men. By contrast, women only represented ** percent of new car buyers but lead the used car market, amounting to over **** of the used vehicle sales for that same time period.

The global used car market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025 (assuming a logical estimation based on the provided CAGR of 10% and a known market size at an earlier point in time – this would require additional data to give a precise figure), is experiencing robust growth, projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increasing vehicle ownership, particularly in developing economies, coupled with the rising preference for more affordable transportation options, significantly boosts demand. Technological advancements, including online marketplaces and improved vehicle inspection services, streamline the buying and selling processes, further accelerating market growth. The shift towards subscription-based car ownership models and the growing acceptance of used vehicles as a viable alternative to new cars also contribute to the market's dynamism. Different vehicle types within the market exhibit varying growth trajectories, with SUVs and MPVs often leading in sales due to their versatility and family-friendly features. The organized sector, encompassing established dealerships and online platforms, is steadily gaining market share from the unorganized sector due to increased transparency, better financing options, and enhanced customer trust. Geographical variations in market performance are evident. North America and Europe currently dominate the market, with mature economies and strong established automotive infrastructures. However, rapid economic growth and rising disposable incomes in Asia-Pacific regions, particularly in India and China, are propelling significant market expansion in these areas, presenting lucrative opportunities for both established and emerging players. Challenges remain, including fluctuations in used car prices influenced by macroeconomic factors, concerns about vehicle reliability, and the growing environmental consciousness driving demand for more fuel-efficient options. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the used car market remains positive, with continued expansion anticipated throughout the forecast period. The competitive landscape is fiercely contested, with established global players like Hertz, Cox Automotive, and CarMax competing alongside regional players and emerging online platforms. Strategic acquisitions, technological investments, and expanding service offerings are key strategies employed by companies to gain a competitive edge and cater to evolving consumer preferences. This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the global used car industry, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. With a base year of 2025 and an estimated year of 2025, the report forecasts market trends and growth opportunities within the multi-billion dollar sector. The study incorporates historical data (2019-2024), analyzes current market dynamics (2025), and projects future growth (2025-2033). This report is invaluable for industry stakeholders, investors, and anyone seeking to understand the complexities and potential of this dynamic market. Keywords: used car market, used car sales, used car prices, used car industry trends, pre-owned car market, second-hand car market, automotive market analysis, used car valuation, online used car market. Recent developments include: March 2022: TrueCar Inc. launched a new online car-buying marketplace called TrueCar+. TrueCar+ will provide consumers with a more flexible and personalized car buying experience for new and used vehicles., January 2022: General Motors launched Carvago to capitalize on the inflated used car. CarBravo will draw from General Motors' pool of available used cars, along with those of its franchised dealerships., September 2021: Mobil88 launched the Mo88i application to make buying and selling used cars easier. Mo88i is a platform for buying and selling used cars that are trusted, easy, fast, and efficient. This includes car inspections and estimated bid prices. It also ends with financing and vehicle insurance submissions., March 2021: Penske Automotive Group Inc. announced that it adopted CarShop as its global brand for its used vehicle SuperCenters. The company renamed its six used vehicles SuperCenters in the United States from CarSense to CarShop.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand For Electric School Buses. Potential restraints include: Uncertainty of The Global Pandemic. Notable trends are: Strengthening of Online Infrastructure Positively Affecting the Used Cars Market.

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The automotive e-retail market share is expected to increase by 21647.32 thousand units from 2020 to 2025, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 17.49%.

This automotive e-retail market research report provides valuable insights on the post COVID-19 impact on the market, which will help companies evaluate their business approaches. Furthermore, this report extensively covers automotive e-retail market segmentations by product (passenger cars and two-wheelers) and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA). The automotive e-retail market report also offers information on several market vendors, including Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Asbury Automotive Group Inc., AutoNation Inc., eBay Inc., Group 1 Automotive Inc., Hendrick Automotive Group, Lithia Motors Inc., Penske Corp., Scout24 AG, and TrueCar Inc. among others.

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Automotive E-retail Market: Key Drivers, Trends, and Challenges

Based on our research output, there has been a positive impact on the market growth during and post COVID-19 era. The ease and convenience of buying cars and two-wheelers online is notably driving the automotive e-retail market growth, although factors such as cost pressure on vendors due to price sensitivity may impede market growth. Our research analysts have studied the historical data and deduced the key market drivers and the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the automotive e-retail industry. The holistic analysis of the drivers will help in deducing end goals and refining marketing strategies to gain a competitive edge.

Key Automotive E-retail Market Driver

The ease and convenience of buying cars and two-wheelers online is a major factor driving the global automotive e-retail market share growth. The advantages and benefits associated with buying cars and two-wheelers online drive the growth of the global automotive e-retail market. The emergence of various e-commerce platforms has increased the sales of several products. Most products and services can be purchased online due to the wide penetration of e-commerce companies in various industries, such as electronics, apparel, groceries, and automobiles. Several new automotive retailers launched their e-commerce platforms in the last decade. The number of automotive retailers that sell cars increased due to a rise in Internet penetration, improvements in infrastructure, and changes in customer lifestyle. Customers prefer purchasing vehicles online due to convenience. They do not have to visit dealerships to compare vehicles, test drive their choices, and seek advice about financing options. On online platforms, customers can select vehicles, compare features and specifications, and request for a test drive. Most vendors allow customers to trade-in or sell their old vehicles. They also provide financing options such as EMIs and accept full online payments. Such benefits drive the growth of the global automotive e-retail market.

Key Automotive E-retail Market Trend

The popularity of automotive e-retail in APAC is another factor supporting the global automotive e-retail market share growth. APAC dominates global e-commerce sales. The presence of a large consumer base, the untapped of the market, improvements in infrastructure, increasing disposable incomes and improvements in socioeconomic conditions drive the growth of the e-commerce market in APAC. The popularity of automotive e-retail is increasing in the region, especially in fast-growing automotive markets such as China and India. For instance, Alibaba, an online retailer that is based in China, now provides vehicles on its online platform. Customers in China can book or buy new vehicles through the company's website. Several electric vehicle manufacturers that are in China have partnered with Alibaba to sell their vehicles online as the demand for electric vehicles is high in the country, which is the largest market in the world. In India, online retailers such as Paytm offer customers the option to book new vehicles of various brands through their online portal. Paytm offers various models of brands such as RIPL and Tata Motors Ltd. The popularity of online vehicle sales is expected to result in several e-commerce companies selling vehicles online, which will drive the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Key Automotive E-retail Market Challenge

The cost pressure on vendors due to price sensitivity will be a major challenge for the global automotive e-retail market share growth during the forecast period. Vendors are facing cost pressure, amid intense competition, to gain a competitive advantage. They are looking to attract new customers as well as increase sales by offering lower selling prices and discounts

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Used Car Market Size 2025-2029

The used car market size is valued to increase by USD 885.3 billion, at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2024 to 2029. Increasing number of new models of cars launched due to high competition will drive the used car market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 41% growth during the forecast period.
By Vehicle Type - Compact segment was valued at USD 856.10 billion in 2023
By Channel - Organized segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 67.95 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 885.30 billion
CAGR from 2024 to 2029 : 7.4%

Market Summary

The market, a significant and dynamic sector of the global automotive industry, experienced a record-breaking year in 2021. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, approximately 35 million used cars were sold worldwide, marking a 5% increase compared to the previous year. This growth can be attributed to several key drivers. First, the increasing number of new models launching due to heightened competition has led to a larger supply of used cars. Moreover, the growing demand for car subscription services and car-sharing platforms has created new opportunities for consumers to access affordable, flexible transportation solutions. The market's evolution has been shaped by various trends and challenges.
Technological advancements, such as the integration of electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, have transformed the market landscape. Additionally, changing consumer preferences, including a focus on sustainability and cost savings, have influenced market dynamics. Looking ahead, the market is expected to continue its growth trajectory. As the global population becomes increasingly urbanized and transportation needs become more diverse, the demand for used cars is likely to increase. Furthermore, the ongoing digitalization of the automotive industry will create new opportunities for innovation and disruption. In conclusion, the market is a vital and evolving sector that offers significant opportunities for businesses.
Its growth is driven by factors such as increased competition, the rise of car subscription services, and changing consumer preferences. As the market continues to adapt to technological advancements and shifting trends, it will remain a dynamic and exciting space for innovation and growth.

What will be the Size of the Used Car Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Used Car Market Segmented ?

The used car industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Vehicle Type

  Compact
  SUV
  Mid size


Channel

  Organized
  Unorganized


Fuel Type

  Diesel
  Petrol


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Vehicle Type Insights

The compact segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market continues to evolve, with the compact segment experiencing significant growth in APAC and Europe. This class of vehicles, positioned between subcompact and mid-size cars, gains popularity due to increasing consumer demand for personal mobility and more efficient, eco-friendly options. In densely populated regions, compact cars offer easier handling and lower emissions, contributing to a 50% market share in some regions. Popular pre-owned models like the Fiat Panda and Volkswagen Golf in Europe undergo rigorous pre-sale inspections, including body damage assessment, suspension component inspection, and mileage verification methods. Refurbishment techniques, such as automotive diagnostic tools and mechanical inspection procedures, ensure optimal engine performance and safety.

Consumer review aggregation and title verification services provide transparency, while repair cost estimation and parts replacement costs inform potential buyers. Fuel efficiency ratings, detailing services, and pre-purchase inspection checklists further enhance the buying experience. Online vehicle marketplaces employ pricing algorithms, vehicle financing options, and auction platform data to facilitate sales. Electrical system testing, maintenance record analysis, and emissions testing standards ensure transparency and safety. Safety recall checks, brake system evaluation, and fluid level checks complete the comprehensive assessment process.

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The Compact segment was valued at USD 856.10 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase dur

Autos include all passenger cars, including station wagons. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis releases auto and truck sales data, which are used in the preparation of estimates of personal consumption expenditures.

The number of new and used vehicles and the sales dollars respectively sold by month.

MDOT MVA’s Customer Connect modernization project, implemented in July 2020, has increased the amount of data that is collected and used to calculate car sales. This data is updated in real time and may fluctuate based on external factors, including electronic submissions from dealers and other vendors.

In 2021, Baby Boomers were the main new car buyers in the United States, representing around 36 percent of new car sales. By contrast, Gen X made up the majority of the used car buyers, at close to 40 percent of the sales.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data was reported at 4,728.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 15,781.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,035.000 Unit from Dec 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 15,781.000 Unit in Dec 2024 and a record low of 1.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: GMC data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Kia data was reported at 8,656.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 56,099.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Kia data is updated quarterly, averaging 13,566.000 Unit from Mar 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 56,099.000 Unit in Dec 2024 and a record low of 680.000 Unit in Mar 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Kia data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data was reported at 8,553.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 51,579.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data is updated quarterly, averaging 17,087.000 Unit from Dec 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 14 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 51,579.000 Unit in Dec 2024 and a record low of 583.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Rivian data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data was reported at 315.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,420.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,420.000 Unit from Jun 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 15 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 6,589.000 Unit in Dec 2023 and a record low of 42.000 Unit in Dec 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: ytd: Volvo: Volvo C40 data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA008: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model: ytd.

United States Electric Vehicle Sales: Mini data was reported at 696.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,053.000 Unit for Dec 2024. United States Electric Vehicle Sales: Mini data is updated quarterly, averaging 684.500 Unit from Mar 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 16 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,234.000 Unit in Dec 2022 and a record low of 307.000 Unit in Mar 2021. United States Electric Vehicle Sales: Mini data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA007: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model.

New car buyer satisfaction with their shopping experience peaked amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching 74 percent satisfaction among U.S. respondents in 2020. Used car buyer satisfaction followed a similar pattern, shooting to 71 percent that same year. However, satisfaction across both categories dipped during the automotive chip shortage in 2021.

Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data was reported at 9,564.000 Unit in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,808.000 Unit for Dec 2024. Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data is updated quarterly, averaging 6,049.000 Unit from Mar 2021 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 10,707.000 Unit in Sep 2023 and a record low of 474.000 Unit in Mar 2021. Electric Vehicle Sales: VW data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Cox Automotive. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United States – Table US.RA007: Electric Vehicle Sales: by Brand and Model.

View monthly updates and historical trends for Canada Used Car Dealers Retail Sales (DISCONTINUED). Source: Statistics Canada. Track economic data with YC…