As the Chuseok holiday in September and the October golden week approach, Encar.com has released the popular models and types of used cars through its purchasing service ‘Encar Trust’ for consumers planning to purchase vehicles.

This year, Chuseok comes earlier than last year, followed closely by the October golden week, leading many consumers to consider purchasing vehicles for long-distance travel and outings. In fact, the number of applications for the ‘Encar Trust’ used car purchasing service from September 2 to 8, just about two weeks before the Chuseok holiday, increased by 15.2% compared to the period from August 5 to 11, four weeks earlier. Compared to the same period last year, this marks a substantial rise of 55.1%.

If you are considering a used car purchase this fall, it’s recommended to refer to the popular models and types frequently searched for on Encar.

According to the analysis of the top 20 models from the applications for ‘Encar Trust’ between September 2 and 8, it was found that RVs and large sedans dominated the higher ranks.

The most popular model was the Genesis G80 (RG3), a family large sedan that is also very much favored. Following this were the Kia The New Ray in second place, Chevrolet The Next Spark in third, Kia Carnival 4th generation in fourth, and BMW 5 Series (G30) in fifth. From sixth to tenth were the Hyundai Avante (CN7), Hyundai The New Grandeur IG, Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213, and Genesis G80.

Furthermore, previous generation models like the Kia The New Carnival, small cars such as Hyundai Casper, and compact to sub-compact SUV models like Hyundai All-New Tucson and Kia Seltos also ranked within the top 20.

The most sought-after car type through ‘Encar Trust’ was undoubtedly ‘SUVs.’ With an increase in trips with family and friends and outdoor activities during this season, many consumers seem to be looking for the practicality and utility of SUVs. Following SUVs, the demand for large cars like the Grandeur and G80, as well as mid-sized cars like Sonata and E-Class was high. Next in line were compact cars, sub-compact cars, RVs, and small cars.

Meanwhile, ‘Encar Trust’ is a new used car transaction service brand from Encar.com that offers a variety of customer-focused services related to used car purchases, including consultations, payments, delivery, financing, and refunds, to ensure trustworthy transactions between ordinary dealers and customers. It operates based on inventory verified by Encar among regular dealer listings, allowing customers to choose the desired transaction method, such as delivery or in-person purchases. If the customer ultimately decides not to purchase the vehicle, a refund is available within 7 days. Currently, the inventory of ‘Encar Trust’ has reached about 30,000 vehicles, the largest scale in the online used car market, meeting various options, conditions, and models desired by consumers.

According to an Encar.com representative, “With the upcoming season of increased long-distance travel and leisure activities, there has been considerable inquiry into SUVs or large cars suitable for family use,” adding, “Particularly with the Chuseok holiday and temporary holidays approaching, we anticipate that purchase demand will remain steady for a while, and popular models such as Carnival and G80, known for their versatility, will garner even more attention.”

Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr