Used car prices drop behind the scenes

In September 2026, the AUTO1 Group Price Index reached 133.2 points, the lowest since 2021 on the French used car market, indicating a sharp decline in wholesale prices among dealers.

Retail prices remain high

Despite the drop in wholesale prices, online platforms like Leboncoin and AutoScout24 still show average used car prices around 18,000 to 20,000 euros, about 20% higher than in 2020, raising questions about whether the decline will reach consumers.

Index tracks B2B transactions

The AUTO1 Group Price Index, based on a 100-point reference in January 2015, measures values from millions of B2B transactions across Europe. In September 2026, it fell 2.3% compared to August and 4.9% over the previous year.

Electric cars see price increases

Used electric cars have seen significant price increases, with a 20.6% rise between January and September 2026, while gasoline and diesel cars have seen sharp declines in wholesale prices, with indices dropping around 5.6% and 6.3% since June.

Market normalization underway

According to Manutea Dupont, vice-president of Auto1 Group France, average prices have fallen across all age categories since May, reflecting a market normalization after a seasonal spring peak.

Retail prices show modest decline

Average used car prices in France dropped by about 600 euros over the first four months of 2026, or 2.9%, with diesel and hybrid models seeing steeper declines than gasoline or electric cars.

Wholesale and retail prices diverge

AutoScout24 reported that the average price of used cars in July 2026 was 29,257 euros, 6.5% lower than the previous year. However, actual transaction prices are generally 3 to 10% below advertised prices, allowing for some negotiation.

Electric cars face unique challenges

Used electric cars have faced challenges, with nearly 30% sold at a loss in late 2025 due to overstocking and longer turnover times. However, wholesale prices for electric cars have risen sharply since early 2026, supported by new incentives.

Market shifts benefit buyers

While wholesale prices have fallen to their lowest since 2021, retail prices have only slightly declined from record highs. The balance of power is slowly shifting toward buyers, though past price increases remain significant.