As the demand for quality second-hand vehicles continues to surge across Europe and neighbouring regions, savvy car buyers and importers are increasingly turning their attention to countries where price, vehicle condition, and export efficiency align. In this ISN Reveal, we explore the top 10 European countries that have become hotspots for second-hand car imports in 2025.
1. Germany – The Engineering Powerhouse
Germany continues to dominate the used car export market, thanks to its reputation for precision engineering and a disciplined vehicle maintenance culture. German cars—particularly Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen—are among the most sought after. Vehicles with full service history, known as scheckheftgepflegt, are especially prized for their reliability.
2. Netherlands – Streamlined and Reliable
The Netherlands offers a remarkably transparent export process and a wealth of well-maintained ex-lease vehicles. With digital vehicle history tracking through the RDW (Dutch vehicle authority), buyers can verify mileage and previous ownership instantly. The Dutch are also known for honesty in car advertising, making it a preferred hub for European traders.
3. Belgium – Central and Convenient
Situated between Germany and France, Belgium boasts a diverse fleet of used vehicles at competitive prices. French and German brands dominate the market, and the multilingual environment makes communication easier. Brussels, in particular, is known for offering urban vehicles with lower mileage.
4. France – Affordable and Abundant
France has one of the largest second-hand vehicle markets in Europe. It is an excellent source for domestic brands like Renault, Peugeot, and Citroën. Additionally, vehicles from southern France tend to be rust-free due to the Mediterranean climate, making them ideal for export to regions with higher humidity or coastal exposure.
5. Sweden – Clean Cars and Clean Records
Sweden is a top destination for those seeking well-maintained, environmentally friendly vehicles, including hybrids and electric models. Stringent vehicle regulations and a culture of transparency mean buyers can expect honesty in listings and reliable maintenance history.
6. Italy – The Classic and the Compact
Italy’s roads are filled with city-friendly compacts and stylish classics. From Fiat 500s to Alfa Romeos, the country offers both affordability and flair. Due to the country’s relatively dry climate, older vehicles are often free from the rust issues found in more humid regions.
7. Poland – The Gateway to the East
While Poland is known more as a re-export hub, it serves as a key access point for high-volume used car sales in Eastern Europe. Many vehicles originally purchased in Germany or the Netherlands make their way to Poland before being sold further east or into the Balkans.
8. Austria – Quiet Competitor
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbour Germany, Austria presents a quieter but equally appealing option for buyers. Austrian vehicles tend to be well-kept and regularly serviced. The country also offers good access to both Alpine-ready SUVs and compact urban models.
9. Czech Republic – Emerging and Affordable
The Czech market is fast-growing, offering a healthy mix of German, French, and domestic brands. Like Poland, it also acts as a re-export hub, and many vehicles from Germany and Austria find their second life here. With increasing digitalisation of vehicle records, it’s becoming easier to source trustworthy vehicles.
10. Spain – Sun-Kissed and Rust-Free
Spain rounds off the top 10, offering a wealth of vehicles in excellent physical condition, especially in the south. Coastal cities provide access to rust-free cars that have spent less time on salted winter roads. Seat, Volkswagen, and Renault are commonly available, and paperwork is becoming more accessible for exporters.
Whether you are an importer looking to resell or a private buyer hunting for value, the European used car market offers plentiful opportunities. Each of these countries brings its own advantages—from the technical quality of German vehicles to the affordability of French or Spanish models.
As always, thorough research, a professional vehicle inspection, and understanding local export laws are essential to making a smart purchase. With the right approach, Europe remains a goldmine for used car buyers.
