Hyundai Grandeur Dominates Korea's Used Car Market: Sedan Preference Continues in First Half of 2025

Korea's Used Car Market Embraces Sedan Renaissance

The South Korean used car market is experiencing a remarkable shift as sedans reclaim their dominance, with AutoInside's latest data revealing fascinating consumer preferences for the first half of 2025. The certified pre-owned vehicle platform, operated by AutoHands, has released comprehensive sales data showing that traditional sedans are making a strong comeback in a market previously dominated by SUVs and crossovers.

According to the latest market analysis, the South Korea used car market reached a valuation of USD 24.11 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 30.51 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 4.85%. This robust growth reflects changing consumer preferences and economic conditions that favor pre-owned vehicles over new car purchases.

The data reveals that 71.9% of all used car sales concentrated on vehicles aged 3-6 years, with 2021 and 2022 model years being the most popular choices among consumers. This preference pattern indicates that buyers are seeking what industry experts call 'value-for-money vintage' - cars that have experienced reasonable depreciation while maintaining competitive performance and features.

Hyundai Grandeur: The Undisputed Champion

Leading the pack with an impressive 7.1% market share, the Hyundai 'The New Grandeur IG' has solidified its position as Korea's most sought-after used car. This mid-size sedan has maintained its top position from the first quarter, demonstrating consistent consumer appeal throughout the first half of 2025.

The Grandeur's success can be attributed to several key factors that resonate with Korean consumers. Its luxurious exterior design combines elegance with functionality, while the spacious interior provides comfort that rivals more expensive alternatives. The vehicle's superior convenience features and exceptional quietness compared to competitors in its class have made it the overwhelming choice for used car buyers.

Industry analysts note that the Grandeur's popularity stems from its ability to offer premium sedan experience at a more accessible price point in the used car market. The model's reputation for reliability and relatively low maintenance costs has contributed to its strong resale value, making it an attractive option for both sellers and buyers in the secondary market.

Genesis G80: Luxury Sedan Market Leader

Securing the second position with 5.2% market share, the Genesis 'The All New G80' continues to drive the luxury family sedan segment alongside the Grandeur. This premium offering from Hyundai's luxury brand has established itself as a formidable player in the used car market, appealing to consumers seeking upscale features without the premium price tag of a new luxury vehicle.

The G80's success in the used car market reflects broader trends in Korean automotive preferences. Consumers are increasingly viewing pre-owned luxury vehicles as viable alternatives to new mid-range cars, especially when considering the advanced technology and premium materials available in these models. The G80's combination of performance, comfort, and prestige has made it particularly attractive to professional buyers and families seeking a sophisticated driving experience.

Market data suggests that the G80's strong performance in the used car segment is also supported by its competitive pricing in the secondary market. With used 2025 Genesis G80 models available from approximately $42,000 to $65,000 depending on trim and mileage, the vehicle offers compelling value proposition for luxury car enthusiasts.

Kia Carnival and Renault QM6: Family Vehicle Preferences

The third-place finish of the Kia 'Carnival 4th Generation' with 3.7% market share highlights the continued importance of family-oriented vehicles in the Korean used car market. This multi-purpose vehicle has maintained its popularity due to its practical design and spacious interior, making it an ideal choice for families requiring versatile transportation solutions.

The Carnival's success in the used car market aligns with broader demographic trends in Korea, where families are increasingly prioritizing functionality and space over traditional sedan preferences. The vehicle's ability to serve multiple purposes - from daily commuting to weekend family trips - has made it a practical choice for cost-conscious consumers.

Following closely in fourth place, the Renault Korea 'The New QM6' captured 3.2% of the market, demonstrating the sustained appeal of mid-size SUVs. Despite being positioned as a 'daddy's car' by some critics, the QM6 has maintained its market presence through competitive pricing and reliable performance. The model's cumulative sales of 250,000 units over its eight-year production run testify to its enduring popularity among Korean consumers.

Industry reports indicate that the QM6's price competitiveness, with models available from approximately 26.4 million won to 30.95 million won, has been crucial to its success in the used car market. This pricing strategy has made it more than 5 million won cheaper than competitors like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.

Hyundai Avante: Rising Star in Compact Sedan Segment

The fifth-place performance of the Hyundai 'All New Avante CN7' with 2.9% market share represents one of the most significant developments in the first half of 2025. This compact sedan successfully displaced the Seltos from the top-five rankings, demonstrating renewed interest in traditional sedan body styles among Korean consumers.

The Avante's rise in the used car market reflects several important trends. According to AutoInside, the model has shown consistent demand in both new and used car markets, with its second-quarter acquisition ratio expanding significantly, leading to substantial sales growth. This performance indicates that consumers are rediscovering the practical benefits of sedan ownership, including fuel efficiency, ease of parking, and lower maintenance costs.

The compact sedan segment has historically been crucial for first-time car buyers and young professionals in Korea. The Avante's strong showing suggests that these demographics are returning to traditional sedan preferences, possibly influenced by economic considerations and changing lifestyle priorities. The model's reputation for reliability and affordable ownership costs has made it particularly attractive to budget-conscious consumers seeking dependable transportation.

Market Trends and Consumer Behavior Analysis

The first half of 2025 has revealed several key trends shaping Korea's used car market. The strong preference for sedans, led by the Grandeur and G80, represents a significant shift from the SUV-dominated market of recent years. This trend reflects changing consumer priorities, with buyers increasingly valuing comfort, fuel efficiency, and lower maintenance costs over the rugged image associated with SUVs.

Community reactions from Korean automotive forums and social media platforms have been largely positive regarding the sedan resurgence. Users on platforms like TheQoo and Nate have expressed satisfaction with the reliability and cost-effectiveness of popular sedan models, particularly praising the Grandeur's combination of luxury features and reasonable pricing in the used car market.

The concentration of sales in the 3-6 year age bracket, representing 71.9% of all transactions, indicates that Korean consumers are becoming more strategic in their purchasing decisions. This preference for slightly older vehicles suggests that buyers are seeking the optimal balance between modern features and depreciation, avoiding both the steep initial depreciation of new cars and the potential reliability issues of much older vehicles.

Digital transformation has also played a crucial role in shaping market dynamics. The growing preference for online platforms and transparent transactions has made it easier for consumers to compare prices and vehicle conditions, leading to more informed purchasing decisions. This digitalization trend is expected to continue driving market growth and improving consumer confidence in used car purchases.

Future Outlook and Industry Implications

Looking ahead, the Korean used car market's trajectory suggests continued growth and evolution. The market's projected expansion to USD 30.51 billion by 2030 indicates robust underlying demand and improving consumer confidence in pre-owned vehicles. The success of sedan models in the first half of 2025 may signal a broader shift in consumer preferences, potentially influencing new car development and marketing strategies.

Industry experts predict that the preference for 3-6 year old vehicles will continue to shape market dynamics, with manufacturers and dealers likely to adjust their strategies accordingly. The success of certified pre-owned programs like AutoInside suggests that quality assurance and transparent vehicle histories will become increasingly important competitive advantages.

The strong performance of Korean domestic brands in the used car market also reflects positive brand perception and product quality improvements. As Lee Ho-seop, Executive Managing Director of AutoHands Retail Business Division, noted, the first half of 2025 demonstrated clear demand for sedans with generous interior space and mid-to-large family cars, indicating that practical considerations continue to drive consumer choices.

The market's evolution toward digital platforms and enhanced customer service is expected to continue, with companies investing in AI-based valuation tools, virtual showrooms, and mobile applications to streamline the purchasing process. This technological advancement, combined with the proven appeal of sedan models, positions the Korean used car market for sustained growth and innovation in the coming years.