Does a new model affect used prices much?

[darren9]

I really want a skoda octavia vrs estate. There are a few on the autotrader I've seen and that I'm tempted by. But. The mk3 octavia has just been launched and the vrs version is expected after may.

Will the mk3 affect prices of used mk2s/mk2.5s? Will I get a better deal when the new vrs is launched or won't it make much difference?

[ZOLLAR]

No idea but there was a similar thread earlier that may help.

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

[Fartgalen]

There were a couple.

[ED209]

Not sure how much, but I picked up a brand new vrs estate yesterday, diesel manual metallic with a few options and 3 years servicing included for about £18250. Worked out over 5k off list

In my opinion its a whole heap of car for the cash.

I know theres a new model octy out but they dont qualify for skodas VAT free offer at the minute and given the pricing of the new model I recon any new vrs wagon will be at least 25k.

[Ozzie Osmond]

Manufacturers tend to go on increasing the list price of a car right through its life. Then when the new model comes out they are able to proudly state, "Stunning new model is excellent value, only £150 more than the old one".

In reality,

• Run-out editions of the old model are fitted with many more extras "as standard" and discounts are widely available.
• Base level new model will be relatively spartan and no discounts available.

Used car prices tend to dip a bit once a new model comes out, especially if there's a significant change of styling. No risk for VAG group then!

[yellowjack]

darren9 said:

Does a new model affect used prices much?

Yes and no.

Yes - If you are trying to trade one in, in which case you will be bum-raped by the dealer who will plead poverty and tell you how hard it is to shift 'old' stock.

No - If you are trying to buy 'old' stock. The dealer will plead poverty, and tight margins, and try to persuade you that 'because of the quality and reliability of this model, residual values are still strong.

The presumption that a replacement or facelift will knock the value of older cars can, in some cases have the opposite effect - demand gets stronger, prices are protected from the forecasts of a slump, albeit temporarily. Buy the right car at a price that's right for you - it's all you can do. If you worry too much about buying at the 'top of the market' you'll never take the plunge. Buying a modern car is always going to cost in depreciation in that market sector. Go. Buy. Drive. It's all that's important in the end. By all means try to use the new model's existence as a bargaining chip, but expect a rebuff - sellers suss that you are working to a budget that precludes buying new, by the simple fact that you are buying pre-owned, and most private sellers have an unrealistically high value in mind for their own car. Usually because it 'owes them' so much money.