Fewer Poles are importing cars from abroad, and the new car market is starting to recover after years of stagnation. Is this a sign that we can finally afford to buy a car straight from the dealership, or merely a temporary change in trend?
Are we importing fewer cars? Let's look at the data
Despite the popular belief, the import of used cars into Poland remains strong. According to the latest data from the Samar Institute, in 2025 Poles imported around one million used cars, which represents an increase of as much as 4 percent compared to the previous year. Most cars arrive from Germany, France and the Benelux countries.
Why do we still choose imported cars?
- More attractive prices compared to new cars
- A wide choice of brands and models, often better equipped
- Quick availability of vehicles
However, the average age of imported cars is as high as 12 years, and only 10% of imported cars are less than 4 years old.
The new car market in Poland – a slow recovery
In parallel with imports, sales of new cars in Poland are starting to grow. In the first quarter of 2025, 142,105 new cars were registered, an increase of 2.5% year on year. Toyota, Skoda and Volkswagen remain the market leaders, although their sales do not always grow dynamically – for example, Toyota recorded a decline of 14.3%, and Skoda of 7.6%.
What is driving the growth in new car sales?
- Economic stability and growing financial capacity of Poles
- Better financing and leasing offers
- Growing environmental awareness and the popularity of hybrids and electric cars
Can Poles afford a new car from the dealership?
Although more and more people are considering buying a new car, prices remain a barrier. New regulations on safety and emissions raise production costs, which translates into higher prices at dealerships. For many families, buying a car that is a few years old from abroad still makes more financial sense.
Comparison: Imported used vs. new from the dealership
| Features | Used from import | New from dealership |
|---|---|---|
| Average price | Lower | Higher |
| Vehicle age | 8–15 years | new |
| Warranty | None or limited | Full |
| Financing | Less often available | Leasing, loan |
| Equipment | Often rich | Depends on version |
Market trends and the future
Although the number of imported cars is not falling, Poles are increasingly considering buying a new car. Economic stability and a growing offer of financing support this. However, high prices and inflation mean that the used market will remain attractive to most buyers for a long time.
In the coming years we can expect further growth in new car sales, but imports of used cars will continue to thrive for a long time – especially among those looking for a compromise between price and quality.
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