What the trade wants

As consumers increasingly choose smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles, car retailers are focusing on buying small and medium-sized cars and small MPVs for stock, to satisfy changing appetites of drivers

Surprisingly, though, some older, petrol-powered compact executive models remain in demand when presented in good condition.

Older variants with engine capacity under two litres are currently doing well, provided the vehicle has a good history and that the paintwork is presentable.

The understated Volvo V40 for example, will quite often come from a careful owner and low-mileage examples of 1.8- or 1.9-litre V40 are currently very reasonable. Volvo is a trusted brand, boasting qualities such as versatility and reliability.
These combine with the V40’s practical estate body, to make the car a sound choice during economically-challenging times.

The same trend is affecting other cars, such as the sensible Mercedes C-Class estate, though excellent examples are harder to find.