Manheim Auctions recently released its 2003 Used Car Market Report (UCMR), which provides an overview of the major events in remarketing during the past year, including comprehensive data and analysis on both the wholesale and retail sectors of the used-car industry.

The 56-page 2003 UCMR reports on four issues that form a common thread between the new- and used-vehicle markets. The 2003 Report indicates that new- and used-vehicle marketplaces remain high volume/low price; leasing shrinks further; growth in sub-prime subsides; and new vehicle launches quicken and niche vehicles abound. In addition to these findings, the UCMR devotes eight pages to maximizing value, and the variables that drive used-vehicle prices.