Used-car purchase prices stood at approximately ¥1.04 million in September, edging up from the previous month. While strong exports kept market prices elevated, valuation amounts are becoming increasingly polarized by vehicle type. The market is expected to peak in October and decline from November onward.
The September used-car purchase price averaged approximately ¥1.04 million, according to data compiled by Kurumaerabi.com Purchase, edging up from approximately ¥1.03 million in the previous month and remaining at a high level. While strong exports supported the market, valuation amounts are becoming increasingly polarized by vehicle model and type. The market is expected to turn lower from November onward after peaking in October.
Based on data from the Ministry of Finance's trade statistics and monthly data on transaction prices at USS Auto Auction, the report points to growing polarization even as overseas demand supports market prices. SUVs, minivans and hybrid vehicles, for which practicality is a key consideration, tend to receive higher valuations, and prices are expected to remain elevated on the back of export demand. Meanwhile, valuations for luxury minivans and some luxury SUVs are showing signs of cooling as new-vehicle delivery schedules return to normal.
In response to the polarization by vehicle type and export trends, the article organizes purchase rankings by vehicle body type and the outlook for each category, and presents an overview as of September, rankings as of October, and the expected trading trends over the year-end and New Year period.