Nostalgia will be a big trend in car buying in 2026, experts say

Nostalgia will be a big trend in car buying in 2026, according to Motorway's second annual consumer trends report, Fast Forward[1]. Data from the experts shows there has been an uplift of nostalgic classic models being sold on the platform, with some selling for higher prices than the year before - such as the Subaru Outback increasing by 32.67%, and the Renault Clio by 4.99%. A spokesman ssid: "In 2026, expect throwback features and vintage silhouettes to stick around, with 61% of UK car owners saying they'd opt for a model from the 2000s or earlier. "

The platform says maximilist design is also coming back. The Range Rover Defender increase in price by 6.29% in 2025, reflecting growing demand for showier, statement-making vehicles. And 40% of UK car owners personalised their car in 2025, turning to social media for styling inspiration.

As K-pop continues to dominate playlists, it's now set to influence how UK car owners want their cars to look and feel. Korean car makes like Hyundai and Kia are rising in popularity on Motorway, with models like the Hyundai Santa FE and Kia Rio selling for 2.77% and 1.37% more on average in 2025. And tech will be another big trend.

In 2025, cars with in-car tech sold for 91% more on Motorway, making the likes of navigation, safety, and smartphone connectivity essential. Manuals still outsold automatics by 14.7% last year, but younger car owners are driving change. Becky Wells, Automotive Expert at Motorway said: "We're excited to share the second instalment of Motorway's consumer trends report, Fast Forward - a snapshot of how culture is shaping car preferences and consumer demand.

From retro styling to the power of TikTok, drivers are expressing themselves more than ever, and it's showing up in the used car market."

References

1. ^ Motorway's second annual consumer trends report, Fast Forward (motorway.co.uk)