More than 1,750,000 used cars were sold in Q3 2012, up 0.5% year-on-year and up 1.7% compared to Q2 2012, according to figures published by the Experian Automotive Used Car Sales Index.

The change was spurred by growth in the SUV, supermini and mini segments, which grew 6.4%, 3.3% and 1.6% respectively. All other segments contracted, with sales of used luxury cars experiencing the biggest drop of any segment, at 3.1%, while the MPV segment fell 1.4% in its first year-on-year drop since 2005.

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Hybrid and electric models saw the most significant sales increases within their categories, as used hybrid car sales increased 58.3% to 6,191 and used electric car sales increased 26.9% to 1,110 cars.

In comparison, second-hand diesel car sales grew 7.9%, while used petrol car sales shrank 2.8%.

The Ford Focus sold 78,600 units in Q3, making it the most popular car sold for the second quarter in a row, with the Ford Fiesta remaining the second most popular.

Andrew Ballard, strategic director at Experian Automotive, noted: "There is a clear trend towards smaller or more fuel-efficient models.

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"Even among the SUV sales, some of the biggest increases in sales came from models known for their fuel economy. The larger, more expensive high fuel consuming segments, such as luxury and upper medium segments saw sales fall the furthest.

"We know from talking to the industry that many consumers are now walking into dealerships with a clear idea of what vehicle they want to buy. Insight, such as the Used Car Sales Index, is vital for motor retailers to help them understand where the demand is or what is driving sales, in order to ensure they make that sale," Ballard added.

"The trend for now, however, is clear. The biggest increases in used car sales will continue to come from the more fuel-efficient cars."

richard.brown@timetric.com