The used car market in Bulgaria continues to be significantly larger than that of new cars, maintaining its role as a main driver for the automotive sector. Data for April 2025 show stable registration levels, while highlighting the lasting trends characteristic of the Bulgarian secondary market. The analysis is based on data from the largest automotive website in our country mobile.bg.
Stable registration levels, but with a slight decrease on an annual basis
As of April 2025, the used car market in Bulgaria is stable, but with a slight decrease compared to the same period of the previous year. Although there is no exact data on the number of all newly registered used cars for April 2025 alone, the general European trend, which is also reflected in our country, is for a slight negative adjustment on an annual basis. For example, on the German market, which is the main source of used cars for Bulgaria, 570,882 used cars were sold in April 2025, which is 2.9% more than in March, but 1.8% less than in April 2024. These data also give a general idea of the dynamics in our country.
It is important to note that despite the relatively stable data for April, the import of used cars in general is the subject of increased attention by the state. Last year (2024), about 250,000 used cars were imported to Bulgaria, while new ones were under 50,000, which clearly shows the huge volume of the secondary market. The Ministry of Finance has signaled a high fiscal risk in these deals.
Dominant market trends:
Age of the fleet: Bulgaria continues to maintain one of the oldest fleets in the European Union. As of January 1, 2025, out of a total of 3.1 million registered passenger cars, about 2.8 million are over 20 years old. This fact also determines the demand in the secondary market - affordable and older vehicles.
Fuel preferences: Gasoline displaces diesel: Traditionally, diesel cars dominated the secondary market in Bulgaria, but in recent months there has been a clear shift in favor of gasoline engines. This is a trend that is also gaining momentum in other European countries, influenced by stricter environmental regulations and rising diesel prices.
Leaders among brands and models:
Volkswagen continues to be the undisputed leader in the secondary market, although in 2023 its growth rate was slower than the market average. Models such as the VW Golf and VW Passat remain extremely popular. The Passat marks a comeback with 12% growth in 2025, climbing to second place.
The Mercedes E-Class is the most sought-after business sedan in the used market, reporting a 4% growth compared to the previous year. Audi and BMW also occupy a significant share, with the three German premium brands (VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes) forming nearly 27% of the used car market in Bulgaria. SUV models such as the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson are also seeing significant growth in used car registrations.
Second-hand electric cars: The used electric car market in Bulgaria, while still small compared to those with internal combustion engines, is growing slowly but surely. However, potential buyers remain cautious, with the condition of the battery and the lack of a "lifetime warranty" for it being key factors influencing purchasing decisions. Leasing used electric vehicles is also gaining some popularity, but is still far from the levels of new cars.
Impact of international factors: Increased tariffs on US car imports imposed by the Donald Trump administration could affect the prices and supply of used cars, especially those imported from the US market, which were often purchased for repair and resale due to their low price.
The used car market in Bulgaria remains complex and multi-layered, reflecting both economic conditions and consumer preferences. Despite the challenges, it remains vital to the Bulgarian automotive sector.