Second Hand Sedans vs SUVs: What our Data Reveals about Buying Preferences

The Indian used car market is in a constant state of evolution and 2024 was no exception. Sedans and SUVs emerged as the two popular body styles last year, with buyers weighing multiple factors like budget, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and overall practicality before closing on a decision.

Thanks to the emergence of online platforms like CARS24, making an informed decision on a used car has become easier than ever, and an analysis of the second hand car market from 2021 to 2024 shows that there’s a gradual shift towards used SUVs. Used sedans still command plenty of appeal, but their market share has been reducing in favour of the appeal of an SUV. But what drives these preferences? In this article, we will break the patterns down.

The Best Selling Used Sedans and SUVs in 2024

Honda City – Best Selling Used Sedan of 2024 

The Honda City was the top selling used sedan in India in 2024, capturing 16% of the used sedan market. After the Swift and Hyundai i10, the City was also the third best selling used car in 2024. Its continued success can be attributed to a number of factors.

• Premium interiors – High-quality materials and a refined cabin.
• Spacious comfort – Ample rear-seat legroom makes it ideal for families.
• Reliable engine – Proven performance and efficiency, even after years of use.
• Strong resale value – Honda’s brand reputation ensures steady demand in the used car market.

• Badge value – Seen as a status symbol in the sedan segment.

   

While the Honda City was the best selling used sedan in 2024, the pre owned Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire wasn’t far behind in second place, also securing a 16% used sedan market share. The Hyundai Verna was the third highest selling used sedan in 2024, with a 9% market share.

Ford EcoSport – Best Selling Used SUV of 2024 

Despite being discontinued in India, the used Ford EcoSport remained the most popular used SUV in 2024, holding a 10% share in the pre owned SUV market. The reason for its success can be attributed to the following factors.

• Solid build quality – Better durability compared to many rivals.
• Premium materials – High-quality interiors that age well.
• Continued after-sales support – Ford’s commitment to servicing existing models despite having officially exited India.

• Fun-to-drive dynamics – A punchy engine (especially the 1.0 EcoBoost) and great overall driving experience.

   

Buyers continue to prefer the EcoSport in the used car market, proving that quality and brand trust outweigh discontinuation concerns. Slotting into second position in terms of sales was the Hyundai Creta, with a 9% used SUV market share in 2024. The old Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza was the third highest selling used SUV last year, with a 7% market share.

Used Sedans vs SUVs: What Influences Buyers?

As per CARS24’s internal data, there are plenty of factors that go into determining the right used car for a buyer. In no particular order, these are the factors influencing buyers the most.

1. Budget Considerations

• Sedans are typically cheaper in both purchase price and running costs. Even in the used car market, models like the second hand Honda City and Maruti Suzuki Dzire provide premium features at an affordable price.

• SUVs, on the other hand, command a higher resale value, even when purchased second hand. Models like the pre owned Hyundai Creta and Ford EcoSport tend to be priced higher than comparable sedans due to their growing demand.

   

2. City Driving vs Versatility

• Sedans are ideal for city driving, offering a smooth ride, better fuel efficiency, and easier maneuverability in traffic. Their lower ground clearance, however, makes them less suited for bad roads or hilly areas.

• SUVs excel in versatility, handling rough terrain, bad roads, and long highway trips with ease. Their higher ground clearance is particularly useful in areas with waterlogging or uneven roads.

   

3. Fuel Efficiency

• Sedans tend to be more fuel-efficient than SUVs because they are lighter and more aerodynamic.

• SUVs consume more fuel due to their larger engines and heavier build, although newer models have improved mileage figures.

   

4. Maintenance Costs

• Sedans generally have lower maintenance costs, with cheaper spare parts and widespread availability of service centres.

• SUVs usually have higher maintenance costs, but their rugged build ensures long-term durability.

   

5. Space and Cargo Capacity

• SUVs typically offer better cargo space and rear-seat legroom, making them a preferred choice for families and long road trips.

• Sedans, while offering sufficient comfort, often have a more compact boot, making them less practical for bulkier luggage.

   

6. Safety and Road Presence

• SUVs tend to feel safer due to their height and road presence, giving drivers a commanding view. Many SUVs also come equipped with additional safety features, especially the more recent models.

• Sedans, however, provide better high-speed stability and aerodynamics, making them ideal for highway cruising.

   

Buyers weigh these factors depending on their personal needs and driving conditions, which is reflected in buying data from 2021 to 2024.

Used Sedans vs SUVs: What Buying Data Reveals

The used car market data from 2021 to 2024 highlights a clear shift in buyer preferences.

Key Takeaways

• SUVs have steadily gained popularity over the years, eating into the sedan market share.
• Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai lead used car sales overall in 2024, with a 36% and 21.9% market share, respectively. 
• The gap between sedans and SUVs shrank from 28% in 2021 to just 8% in 2024, signaling an increasing preference for SUVs in the second hand market.
• Factors like growing road infrastructure, changing lifestyles, and the preference for higher ground clearance contributed to SUVs’ rise.

• However, sedans still have plenty of appeal in the pre owned market due to their affordability, fuel efficiency, and easier maintenance.

   

How Buyers Researched Used Cars

As per CARS24’s used car report, modern car buyers rely heavily on digital platforms for research before making a purchase.

• 56% used social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and 53% referred to YouTube for insights.
• 50% relied on online reviews, while 42% sought recommendations from family and friends.

• Traditional sources like used car dealers (48%) and online news apps (39%) still played a role, but digital platforms dominated decision-making.

   

This data underscores the shift toward online research, with buyers making informed decisions based on extensive comparisons and user feedback before purchasing a used sedan or SUV.

Why you should choose a Used Sedan

A pre owned sedan is the right choice for the following kind of buyer.

• City commuters looking for easy maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
• Budget-conscious buyers looking for lower ownership and maintenance costs.
• Highway drivers who prefer a stable and comfortable ride.

• Individuals who prioritise comfort and refinement over ruggedness.

   

Why you should choose a Used SUV

A second hand SUV is ideal if these criteria accurately describe your current needs.

• Families needing extra space and cargo capacity.
• Buyers living in areas with bad roads, hilly terrain, or frequent monsoons.
• Drivers who want a commanding road presence and higher safety.
• Adventure seekers looking for off-road capability.

Conclusion

The used car market in India is evolving, with SUVs gaining ground on sedans each year. While sedans still hold a majority share, SUVs have become an increasingly attractive option for buyers looking for practicality, space, and road presence.

The Honda City and Ford EcoSport emerged as the best selling used sedan and SUV of 2024, respectively, reflecting strong buyer trust in quality, durability, and brand value.

Ultimately, the choice between a used sedan and a used SUV depends on the buyer’s needs—city dwellers and those looking for fuel efficiency may lean toward sedans, while buyers needing ruggedness and versatility might prefer SUVs. As India’s roads and driving conditions continue to evolve, both body styles will remain integral to the second hand car market.