While summer isn’t necessarily the most vibrant or exciting season for most economic sectors, that doesn’t quite apply to the car market. That’s exactly why it’s worth taking a look at the automotive trends of summer 2025 in this short article.

Only New Cars?

The short answer to the question posed in the title is: definitely not. The used car market could hardly be more active, as the past few months have seen considerable movement. In general, this period favors used vehicles, as many people consider upgrading their old car to a newer, safer one before embarking on summer road trips.

Of course, other factors also play a role in the surge of used car sales. One of the key drivers is undoubtedly the economic situation. With many countries struggling with inflation and the rising cost of living, more people are turning to used vehicles instead of purchasing new ones.

And something that used to be unthinkable: in certain regions, cities, and social groups, car sharing has become increasingly popular. There are now platforms and groups—mainly used by younger people—where cars can be rented and shared. From a webshop perspective, this is notable because it increases demand for portable car accessories.

What Are Buyers Looking For?

While individual needs are still incredibly diverse, there are some fundamental expectations that nearly all car buyers share. Features like air conditioning and essential electronic equipment are now considered basic.

Most buyers also expect ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which support the driver during travel. And of course, digitization and the demand for comfort have made their way here too. Infotainment systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often integrating with smartphones to deliver a new kind of in-car experience. That’s why features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility have become standard expectations.

Closely tied to this is the rise of software-based experiences and subscription features. Car manufacturers (e.g., BMW, Mercedes, VW Group) are increasingly locking certain functions behind software paywalls, available only via subscription—such as seat heating or parking assistance. While reception in countries like Germany and Austria is mixed, a segment of premium buyers has accepted this model.

Which Models Are Hot This Summer?

It likely comes as no surprise that German brands dominate in Germany. The top four spots are occupied by various Volkswagen models, with the well-known Skoda Octavia coming in fifth. This reflects the fact that, beyond appearance, functionality is a top priority.

Austria shows a slightly different picture, with the Skoda Octavia taking first place, and other popular models including the Seat Ibiza and the Dacia Sandero.
Experts suggest that both countries may see significant changes in automotive trends in the coming years. Electric vehicles and hybrids are steadily gaining popularity, and this trend is expected to continue. Furthermore, new models entering the market could shift the competitive landscape. Several German manufacturers have already announced plans to experiment with new solutions, models, and technologies.

A noteworthy development in recent years is the rise of Chinese car brands. Companies like BYD and Jaecoo are gaining increasing market share in Germany and Austria, especially in the electric vehicle segment. It will be interesting to see whether this trend continues in the future.