Mycarcheck.com January 2019 market guide tackles Brexit ‘uncertainty’

Mycarcheck.com’s valuation experts have revealed significant trends in the UK used vehicle market, choosing a car and bike of the month.

Valuation services team manager at mycarcheck.com, Jon Wheeler, said: “If you’re looking to invest in a modern future classic, the Peugeot RCZ R deserves consideration. The 1.6-litre turbocharged engine produces 270bhp and 330nm of torque, propelling it to 60mph in 5.9 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. The upgraded Alcon brakes and suspension help with the focus and handling, and the Torsen front differential deals admirably with all that power. The RCZ R isn’t all about performance though, its unmistakable lines and double-bubble roof design really add to the unique appeal. There aren’t too many of these around, particularly in the beautiful grey, so do your research, get a full history check, and you could end up with a great car that more than holds its value.”

As to market trends, Wheeler said: “We enter 2019 with a huge level of uncertainty surrounding (dare we say it) Brexit. Nothing new here, but the stark reality is that the March 29 leave date is fast approaching, prompting some manufacturers to announce temporary UK plant shutdowns. Combine this with the recent job cut announcement by Jaguar Land Rover, the ongoing WLTP production backlog and the sharp drop in diesel sales, and it makes for a very challenging market. We may see additional vehicle tariffs in the case of ‘no deal’, so new buyers could potentially save by purchasing pre-Brexit – it’s a risk though with the picture changing by the day and the outcome incredibly difficult to predict.”

Modern Triumph offers value

Triumph Bonneville

On the motorbike, scooter and moped sector, mycarcheck.com’s Mark Field said: “The Triumph Bonneville holds a special place in motorcycling history and popular culture, with connections to everyone from Evel Knievel to Tom Cruise. The original, known as the T120, was in production from the late 1950s until the 70s, when it was replaced by the 750cc T140. Production ceased in 1988 and there was a hiatus until the early 00s when the third generation was unveiled. The current range, introduced in 2016, features the 1200cc T120 and the 865cc T100. The new T120 certainly lives up to its “ultimate modern classic” marketing, with retro styling complimented by a user-friendly liquid-cooled single overhead cam (SOHC) engine, ABS, traction control, disc brakes and KYB suspension. A classic T120 will set you back around £16,000 but a 2016 model could be yours for half that. If you’re up for a project, an older T120 in need of a little love would make an excellent custom café racer… something to keep you occupied between now and spring?”

As to market trends, Field said: “Bearing in mind that global motorcycle sales are declining, and that UK sales have been additionally hampered by the seemingly endless uncertainty of Brexit, 2018’s registration figures must be considered a minor success. December was a struggle but overall registrations for the year ended up 0.3 per cent higher than 2017. A very small number to be excited about perhaps but, if we can ride out the next few months until the weather improves, some in the trade are quietly optimistic.”