In the 2000 movie of the same name, Mel Gibson had a fairly good understanding of what women want. Well now Darryl Jacobson, managing director of Burchmore’s, has revealed what used car buyers want.
In the 2000 movie of the same name, Mel Gibson had a fairly good understanding of what women want. Well now Darryl Jacobson, managing director of Burchmore’s, has revealed what used car buyers want.
According to Jacobson, the first requirement is a reasonable price tag. “Cars between R90 000 and R120 000 are in extremely high demand, we are seeing the most trading within this sector of the market,” he reveals.
In this price sector specifically, the brand is not necessarily a buying factor. “We are selling any brand within this price range, as it is the most popular price sector.
When we receive stock in this price range, it generally sells within days. Buyers in this sector are concerned purely with price; the floor could be full of any brand and, if was priced in this range, it will sell,” says Jacobson.
Buyers also have no specific preference in terms of type of vehicle. “The demand is widespread – buyers want sedans, hatches, 4x4s and mom’s taxis,” he comments.
Within the R90 000 to R120 000 price range, some buyers are snapping up great cars at good prices. “For that price, you can buy an extremely good second-hand BMW, Audi or Mercedes-Benz with every imaginable feature.
The vehicle will be in great condition and represent good value for money.” Moving slightly upwards in terms of pricing, Jacobson says buyers with around R160 000 to spend are looking for the smaller Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo and BMW models.
When it comes to buyers with over R200 000 to spend, the German luxury brands are still firm favourites. “However, we are also seeing massive demand for Jaguars, Range Rovers and Volvo XC90s,” he notes.
The most sought-after accessory is a sunroof. “It is interesting to note that buyers generally rate a sunroof above safety features,” Jacobson says.
When it comes to specific brands, Toyota continues to rule the roost. “Any Toyota product will sell instantly.
This remains the most sought-after brand – irrespective of the specific vehicle; they are all popular- from a Tazz to a Land Cruiser. The brand has credibility and an excellent track record.”
Whereas a low-mileage car used to be important, this isn’t a factor any longer. “Kilometres are irrelevant.
A car with extremely low kilometres on the clock will sell faster but buyers are generally not bothered about the mileage today,” Jacobson reveals.
Finally, buyers have not been scared away from brands that have experienced tumultuous times of late. “We have not seen any resistance to buying Chrysler or General Motors products,” Jacobson concludes.
