In Spain, the used car market is showing steady growth, outpacing new car sales in terms of dynamics. In the first nine months of 2025, Spaniards bought nearly 1.6 million pre-owned passenger cars and SUVs — 5.2% more than the previous year. In September alone, sales rose by 7.2%, suggesting that total sales could surpass 2.2 million vehicles by year-end. Nearly two used cars are sold for every new one, confirming a shift in consumer interest toward more affordable options.
The market is dominated by cars older than 15 years — they account for more than 41% of total sales. Meanwhile, vehicles under five years old make up only a quarter of the segment. Notably, imports are on the rise: models aged 8–10 years are especially popular, with their sales increasing by 14.4%. Against this backdrop, gasoline engines are consolidating their position, while electric and hybrid vehicles are posting record growth rates — sales of used electric cars rose by 50.5%, and plug-in hybrids by 38.3%. The secondary market is becoming the main channel for transitioning to greener mobility.
Three categories: what’s behind the popular terms
Buyers often encounter different definitions in ads: “kilómetro 0”, “seminuevo”, and “used”. However, not everyone understands exactly what sets these types of cars apart. Here is a brief classification, relevant to the Spanish market in 2025, to help clarify the nuances.
Cars labeled as ‘kilometer 0’ are vehicles that have already been registered but have not actually been used by private owners. Typically, their mileage does not exceed a few hundred kilometers. These cars are moved within showrooms, between warehouses, or undergo minimal test drives. Dealers register them in their own names to meet sales targets, update showroom displays, or speed up the turnover of popular models. Due to their registration status, these vehicles are priced 10–20% lower than brand-new ones.
The ‘seminuevo’ category includes cars that have been through the first years of use but are still in excellent technical condition. Usually, these vehicles are between three and five years old with mileage up to 60,000 kilometers. Discounts on such cars can reach 25–30% compared to new ones, making them attractive to those seeking modern features at a reasonable price.
Classic used cars are vehicles older than six years. This segment ranges from well-maintained cars to those requiring significant repairs. The selection is vast, offering nearly all makes, body types, and engine options. Here, buyers can find both great deals and openly problematic vehicles with hidden technical issues.
What to look out for when buying
Before making a purchase decision, it’s important to carefully check several key factors. First, ask for the service book—it contains records of regular maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, and any repairs. This document helps you assess how diligently the car has been maintained.
Mileage is another important criterion, but it should be considered in the context of how the car has been used. For instance, a car with 150,000 kilometers mostly driven on highways may be in better condition than one with only 70,000 kilometers, but mostly used in city traffic. Urban driving—with frequent stops, starts, and short trips—causes more wear on the engine, transmission, and brakes.
A visual inspection of the bodywork can reveal signs of repainting, color mismatches, poorly repaired damage, or corrosion. Inside, pay attention to the condition of the upholstery, plastic trim, and controls—these will give you an idea of how the car was used.
Technical inspection and test drive
Technical condition is a key factor when choosing a car. Check the engine, the level and cleanliness of the fluids, make sure there are no leaks, and inspect the timing belt or chain as well as signs of overheating. Don’t forget to check the tires, brake system, suspension, and all electrical systems—from power windows to climate control.
A mandatory step is a test drive. Some malfunctions only become apparent when the car is in motion: unusual noises, vibrations, and creaks, especially during acceleration, braking, or driving over uneven surfaces. It’s important to assess how smoothly the steering operates, how easily the gearbox shifts, and how the engine responds. Ideally, you should test the car with both a cold and a warmed-up engine, as certain issues may only appear under specific conditions.
How to choose the best option
Understanding the differences between the main categories of used cars helps you select the option that best fits your needs and budget. If you value novelty and minimal risk, choose cars with the lowest mileage. Buyers looking for a balance between price and modern features often opt for ‘seminuevo.’ And for those aiming to save as much as possible and willing to invest in repairs if needed, traditional used cars may be the optimal choice.
In any case, a thorough check of the technical condition, service history, and a test drive will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make your purchase as safe as possible.
In case you didn’t know, the leading players in Spain’s used car market include dealership networks such as Flexicar, OcasionPlus, and Clicars. Founded in 2012, Flexicar quickly became one of the country’s top sellers of pre-owned vehicles, offering a wide selection of models and transparent terms for buyers. The company actively adopts digital services, allowing customers to choose and reserve vehicles online, and provides warranties on most of its listings. OcasionPlus stands out for its extensive branch network nationwide and its focus on fast appraisals and buyouts from private owners. Clicars emphasizes online sales and vehicle delivery across Spain—a particularly convenient option for buyers in smaller towns. All these brands prioritize comprehensive technical inspections and transparent service histories, significantly reducing the risks for buyers. Thanks to their efforts, the market is becoming more civilized and safer for everyone involved.
