Lithuania’s used car market is experiencing a critically important shift in consumer preferences, with SUVs rapidly gaining dominance. Data from Longo LT indicates that SUVs now comprise nearly 40% of the dealership’s sales,a considerable increase from approximately one-third just a few years ago. This trend mirrors a broader European pattern, as more affordable and versatile SUV options become available to Lithuanian drivers, reshaping both import patterns and buyer expectations.
A shift in consumer preference is becoming increasingly apparent in Lithuania’s used car market, as sport utility vehicles (SUVs) steadily move from being a niche choice to the dominant option for buyers.
According to Paulius Valiukėnas, head of used car dealership Longo LT, “The growing popularity of SUVs is very clearly felt in the Lithuanian used car market. If this segment accounted for about a third of our sales a few years ago, this year SUVs already make up almost 40% of all the cars sold by the company.”
Valiukėnas explained that this represents a natural stage in market development, noting that SUVs have dominated new car purchases in Western Europe for some time, with those trends now reaching Lithuania. Consequently, a growing proportion of used vehicles imported into the country are now SUV models.
A Versatile Choice
The expert noted that SUVs have evolved beyond being considered luxury or specialized vehicles, now offering a versatile option for both families and individual drivers. This appeal stems from their combination of comfort, safety features, and a higher driving position.
“The most popular SUV models on our platform are the Nissan Qashqai, Volkswagen Tiguan, Škoda Karoq and Kodiaq, Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage and Ford Kuga,” Valiukėnas stated. “Their success is due to a combination of practicality, reliability, and acceptable operating costs.”
Buyers considering an SUV are increasingly discussing not only technical specifications but also the emotional feeling of security the vehicles provide, he added.
“A higher seating position, better visibility, a more solid construction – all of this builds confidence on the road. This is especially important for families, who often choose SUVs as their primary vehicle,” Valiukėnas observed.
Another advantage of SUVs is their versatility. Larger trunks, more rear passenger space, and a more comfortable ride on longer journeys are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions.
“Modern SUVs meet the real needs of everyday life. And since their operating costs are often lower than imagined, they become a rational choice,” he added.
Diesel Remains Dominant, But Trends are Shifting
Currently, the majority of used SUVs in Lithuania still feature diesel engines, valued for their fuel efficiency and reliability on longer trips. However, according to the expert, this trend is gradually changing.
“We are seeing that customers in larger cities are increasingly opting for gasoline or hybrid SUVs, especially when the vehicle is used for short daily commutes. They are attracted by lower maintenance costs and environmental considerations,” Valiukėnas noted.
Electric SUVs currently represent a small share of the used car market, but their numbers are growing alongside the expansion of charging infrastructure and increasing consumer confidence in the technology. It is likely that they will become a more prominent part of the used vehicle market in the coming years.
Market Changes are Here to Stay
“All market participants are feeling the growth in SUV popularity, so we have to adjust our supply accordingly. In our case, more than half of the cars we import are now SUVs,” Valiukėnas stated. This shift reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry, as manufacturers prioritize SUV production to meet evolving consumer demand.
He emphasized that this is not a temporary fad or trend, but a long-term, structural change that is influencing not only supply but also shaping consumer behavior.
“Ten years ago, SUVs were often larger, more expensive, and heavier vehicles – with powerful engines and all-wheel drive. Now, the market is dominated by so-called urban SUVs: they are lighter, more economical, often have front-wheel drive, and smaller-displacement engines. As a result, they are becoming accessible to a much wider range of drivers,” the expert explained.
When considering a used SUV, buyers should first objectively assess their needs – where they will be driving most often, how much space they require, and whether increased off-road capability is truly necessary.
“It’s not necessary to choose the largest model. Even compact urban SUVs are perfectly suitable for daily use and family needs. It is also very important to pay attention to the technical condition – check the vehicle’s history, inspect the chassis and transmission, to avoid unexpected expenses,” Valiukėnas recommended.
