July-September used car sales in Britain rose 1.7% to 1,965,027 units, representing the biggest ever quarterly used market total, according to SMMT figures. The first quarter of this year had already set a record with 1,961,340 units sold.

Used car sales for the year to end September rose to 5,881,765 units, up 7.6% on the same period last year.

Used light CV sales grow over the third quarter by 5% to 194,637 units, and by 10.2% to 588,579 units over the year to date. Third quarter used heavy CV sales rise 3.7% to 19,588 units and by 7.4% over the first nine months to 60,944 units “Today's figures directly reflect recent growth in the new car and commercial vehicle markets, giving further indications of a strong economy”, commented SMMT chief executive, Christopher Macgowan. “Rising used CV sales are yet another barometer of strong economic confidence, showing increased investment in UK businesses. Sustained consumer spending is echoed in a record sales quarter for used cars.”