Britain's 48 new and used best buys

July 2010

• Latest deal price: from £6,433 to £9,606

Believe it or not, now is a brilliant time to go shopping for a new car. With the holiday season in full swing and the World Cup proving a big distraction for those still in the UK, showrooms and forecourts can be lonely places at this time of year.

Factor in the slowdown in the economy, and you begin to see why car buyers have the odds stacked in their favour. And if one thing is sure to loosen the resolve of even the most stubborn car dealer, it’s the prospect of a quiet month. If you live on commission, as most sales staff do, you’ll be keen to do a deal this summer.

With that thought in our minds, our crack team has been investigating the Internet, scanning the small ads and clueing up on the classifieds to find out what you can get for your money at six key price points. The good news is that whether you’re after something small and sensible or big and powerful, you’ll be amazed at how far your money can go.

If you’re looking for a new, rather than used machine, don’t forget the planned hike in VAT to 20 per cent in January. And make sure you order early to avoid being stung by the higher rate when you pay for your box-fresh car.

>> FOLLOW THE LINKS BELOW TO FIND THE GREATEST CARS FOR THE BEST DEALS


* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £5,000


* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £7,500


* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £10,000


* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £15,000

* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £20,000

* GREATEST DEALS UNDER £25,000