9:40 am, March 20, 2013
CONVERTIBLES are on the way in, says data from Glass’s, with the Spring weather nearly upon us.
According to the firm, last month’s top ten fastest selling vehicle chart was dominated by 4x4s, but the tables are turning. Mini’s Roadster has now jumped to second – up 148 places on last month.
4x4s are still in demand though: the chart is lead by Land Rover’s Discovery 4, and Audi’s Q5 and Skoda’s Yeti slot around half way up the chart.
Premium models also did well, with the Citroen DS3, Lexus IS220d and Audi S3 all proving to be quick sellers. Finishing the list are staple favourites the Vauxhall Vectra, Ford C-Max and Hyundai i20.
‘The situation has certainly changed quite dramatically from last month, when six out of the top ten cars were 4x4s,’ said Richard Parkin, director of valuations at the firm.
‘Most interesting is that the Mini Roadster has moved from position 150 to second place – quite incredible in a month where we’ve still experienced some pretty bad weather.
‘I think the situation is reflective of the stretch in the evenings and the fact we’ve seen a bit more daylight – people start thinking ahead and looking out for better weather cars.
Parkin also highlighted the need for dealers to be prepared for the upcoming seasons, with keeping fresh models in stock key to satisfying demand.
‘There’s no point waiting until May or June to stock up on summer cars, as by that stage they’ll be at a premium and cost a lot more,’ he said. ‘This is the time to do some forward planning, think about what sells well in springtime and start to get these vehicles on to forecourts.
‘That will ultimately bring about better profits in the long-run.’
