India’s used car market continues to evolve rapidly, and Spinny’s Q1 2025 sales report offers compelling insights into consumer preferences. The standout performer this quarter was none other than the Ford EcoSport, which emerged as the most popular compact SUV among pre-owned vehicle buyers on the platform. Despite its production being discontinued in India in 2021, the EcoSport’s appeal remains strong, outpacing current models like the Tata Nexon and Hyundai Venue.
EcoSport Still Reigns in the Compact SUV Segment
Spinny’s report highlights that the Ford EcoSport was the top-selling used compact SUV in Q1 2025. Its popularity is especially noteworthy because Ford exited the Indian passenger vehicle market in late 2021. However, the EcoSport continues to resonate with buyers for its durable build, compact dimensions, fun-to-drive dynamics, and strong road presence.
The Tata Nexon and Hyundai Venue followed closely in second and third positions, respectively. Both are currently available in the new car market, which adds a unique twist to the EcoSport’s dominance. All three models collectively fueled a 20 percent year-on-year surge in compact SUV sales on Spinny, reflecting India’s ongoing love affair with the SUV body style—even in the used car space.
Automatic Transmission Gaining Ground
Alongside the shift in model preferences, there’s a noticeable change in transmission choices. Spinny reported a 5 percent increase in the sale of pre-owned automatic cars, bringing the share of automatics to 29 percent in Q1 2025. This trend is in line with broader urban mobility needs where traffic congestion and long commutes push drivers towards the convenience of automatic transmission.
What’s significant is that this growth in automatic car sales extends across vehicle categories—from compact hatchbacks to full-size SUVs—indicating a systemic shift in buyer behavior rather than a niche trend.
Jeep Compass Leads Used Luxury Segment
The Jeep Compass secured its place as the most in-demand used luxury car in Q1 2025, especially in metropolitan regions like Delhi. It was closely followed by the BMW X1 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA. This trio accounted for a combined 30 percent of all luxury vehicle transactions on Spinny during the quarter.
The Compass offers a robust mix of off-road capability, premium interiors, and a globally respected badge, which explains its traction among Indian buyers looking for a luxury SUV experience without the high price tag of a new one. Meanwhile, both the X1 and GLA are well-regarded for their brand cachet, driving comfort, and premium features—making them reliable choices in the used luxury market.
Hatchbacks Still a Hot Favorite
Despite the rising popularity of SUVs, compact hatchbacks continue to dominate overall used car sales. The Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Grand i10, and Renault Kwid remained the top-selling pre-owned cars in Q1 2025, retaining their spots from the previous year.
Affordability, maintenance ease, and city-friendly dimensions make these hatchbacks an attractive choice for first-time buyers, small families, and city dwellers. Their consistent demand underscores their unmatched value proposition in India’s diverse automotive landscape.
Surge in Female Buyers Reflects Market Evolution
A particularly encouraging trend in Spinny’s Q1 2025 report is the growing number of women purchasing pre-owned cars. Female buyers made up 30 percent of total transactions this quarter, up from 26 percent in 2024. This rise signals a shift in ownership trends and greater financial independence among women buyers.
Interestingly, most female customers came from Kochi, a city that has emerged as a key market for Spinny. A majority of women preferred automatic hatchbacks, with 60 percent opting for this configuration, reflecting the demand for ease of driving. Additionally, 18 percent of female buyers selected compact SUVs, showing increased preference for vehicles that offer a commanding road view and more flexibility.
A Closer Look at Spinny’s Q1 2025 Market Insights
Spinny’s quarterly data highlights several broader shifts in India’s used car ecosystem. First, discontinued models like the EcoSport continue to enjoy strong resale value and brand loyalty. Second, the demand for automatic transmission cars is on the rise across demographics and cities, a shift that’s likely to influence how future vehicles are stocked and marketed in the used car space.
Third, the luxury segment is maturing. The consistent demand for used premium SUVs like the Compass, X1, and GLA suggests that consumers are open to investing in well-maintained pre-owned luxury cars for a more affordable premium experience.
Finally, the growing participation of women in car ownership reflects broader societal changes. It also presents an opportunity for used car platforms to tailor offerings—such as personalized recommendations, financing options, and post-purchase services—to female buyers.
Conclusion
Ford’s EcoSport may no longer be on showroom floors, but it continues to command strong attention in India’s used SUV market. Alongside models like the Nexon, Venue, and Jeep Compass, the EcoSport proves that durability, design, and past reputation still matter to buyers. With trends such as rising automatic car adoption and growing female ownership, Q1 2025 reflects an exciting transformation in how Indian consumers approach used car purchases.
Spinny’s detailed sales report not only highlights current buying behavior but also offers a roadmap for how car makers and sellers can respond to the evolving needs of Indian drivers.