Our Seasonal Shortlist: The 12 Cars of Christmas

This December, we’re unwrapping something a little different - a whole year of cars to look out for in auction. Think of it as your “12 Cars of Christmas”, with each month matched to a vehicle that makes the most sense for the season. Whether you’re buying to drive, to break, or to flip, timing can make all the difference.

January – Land Rover Discovery

The classic British 4x4. Built for bad weather and tougher roads, the Discovery is a winter favourite for families, tradespeople, and anyone who needs something reliable when the temperature drops. Its reputation for capability keeps prices steady, and demand always climbs when snow or ice hits the forecast. Buyers often snap them up early in the year to prepare for rougher conditions or to capitalise on higher resale prices once winter bites.

• See Land Rover Discovery’s in our auctions.

February – Ford Fiesta

February is a lean month - budgets are tight and buyers want dependable cars that don’t cost the earth. The Fiesta remains a standout choice thanks to its balance of affordability, reliability, and endless supply of parts. It’s also one of the easiest cars to sell on later, so whether you’re breaking or flipping, it’s a low-risk buy that moves quickly in the market.

• Browse Ford Fiesta’s available now.

March – Toyota Prius

With new plates and fresh registrations arriving, March always brings a wave of trade-ins and greener thinking. The Toyota Prius still leads the pack for hybrid efficiency, with outstanding fuel economy and strong urban resale thanks to growing low-emission zones. Smart traders buy now and sell later in the year when fuel prices climb or congestion charges tighten – demand always returns.

• Find a Toyota Prius in our auctions!

April – Ford Transit

Spring kicks off the busiest months for small businesses, and that’s when the Transit shines. From electricians and couriers to market traders, this van remains the workhorse of choice. They’re easy to repair, simple to resell, and always moving at auction - which makes them perfect for members who like fast turnover. Pick one up now before summer trade peaks and prices rise.

• Check out Ford Transit’s going through auction.

May – Mazda MX-5

As the weather turns, so does buyer mood. Convertibles start flying, and the MX-5 leads the pack - lightweight, fun, and surprisingly affordable. It’s also one of the few sports cars with strong year-round parts demand. Smart buyers grab one in May before the seasonal hype peaks, then relist in June or July when sun-chasers are browsing for a weekend toy.

• Take a look at Mazda MX-5’s in our auctions.

June – Skoda Octavia

June means family trips and long drives, which makes practicality the top priority. The Octavia’s huge boot, dependable engineering, and premium feel without the premium badge make it a strong summer seller. Estate versions in particular shift fast this time of year, as families gear up for holidays and road trips.

• Search Skoda Octavia’s listed this week.

July – Audi TT

Summer buyers want excitement - and few cars deliver it like the Audi TT. It’s stylish, compact, and often a gateway into the premium market for younger drivers. Whether as a project or a quick flip, TTs tend to draw attention fast, especially clean petrol or Quattro models. Buy now while stock is healthy and list again as demand peaks with the school holidays.

• Browse Audi TT’s up for auction now.

August – VW Transporter

Camping season is prime time for the VW Transporter. It’s got that perfect blend of practicality and personality - equally loved by trades, families, and van-lifers. Whether you’re buying one to convert or to sell on as-is, they hold value better than almost any other van on the market. Older models are cult favourites, and even high-mileage ones rarely stay unsold for long.

• Explore VW Transporter’s in our latest listings.

September – VW Golf

Plate-change season means dealerships are awash with part-exchange hatchbacks - and that’s when the Golf dominates the listings. Its mix of reliability, comfort, and broad appeal makes it one of the safest bets at auction. September’s higher volumes also mean sharper pricing, so it’s a great time to stock up before winter demand pushes values back up.

• Check out VW Golf’s across our auctions.

October – Audi A4

When commutes ramp up again and the weather starts to turn, the A4’s solid diesel engines and refined drive make it a go-to for long-distance drivers. The TDI models are efficient, well-built, and retain resale value even as electric cars gain traction. It’s a great time to buy before cold-weather demand pushes diesel prices higher.

• Find Audi A4’s ready to bid on now.

November – Hyundai i10

By November, practicality rules. The i10 is the definition of fuss-free motoring - low insurance, low running costs, and excellent reliability. It’s especially popular with new drivers and as a second family car. Traders love them because they rarely hang around; buyers are looking for something that “just works”, and the i10 delivers exactly that.

• Take a look at Hyundai i10’s available this week.

December – Range Rover Evoque

End-of-year indulgence meets capability. The Evoque is a symbol of comfort and prestige, with just enough ruggedness to suit winter roads. It’s a high-value car that attracts attention in the luxury market, and December buyers often pay a premium to have something special before the new year. For members looking to move upmarket, it’s the perfect festive buy.

• View Range Rover Evoque’s listed in auction today.

From winter 4x4s to summer convertibles, timing really does matter when it comes to buying at auction. Keep an eye out for these models as they pass through Copart this year - you might just spot your next winner. Visit our Vehicle Finder and start browsing today.