Used cars: news in brief

The sun was shining on the clever CC-style Volkswagen Eos (image) during its auction debut at a Manheim event in Bristol. Six of the models were on offer at the dealer-only affair, but bargain-priced used examples are still some way off; they averaged 96.8 per cent of their list price.

XENON headlamps are a turn-off! The expensive option is less than popular with used buyers, according to trade experts. The bulbs – which can cost hundreds to replace – put off motorists wary of the potential for expensive repairs.

ANYONE who has ever tried to buy a good-quality example of an Eighties hot hatch will know how difficult it is to find a straight, unmolested model. However, we couldn’t help noticing a rare Renault 5 GT Turbo, with only 40,000 miles on the clock, on the list of entries at an H&H Classic Car Auctions sale. It was a snip for some lucky bidder at £3,000.

MPS MAZDAS: when it comes to go-faster models, the Mazda Performance Series is hot stuff. The latest 3 MPS delivers 255bhp – more than its VW, Ford and Vauxhall rivals. But experts at the CAP price guide reckon the MPS brand image isn’t as strong as the Golf GTI, Focus and Astra VXR’s. Residuals will take a hit – although that’s good news for canny used buyers.