Used choice: Jeep Grand Cherokee

With their hefty price tags and eye-watering running costs, full-sized off-roaders aren’t often associated with good value. But one model is now the exception to the rule, according to price experts at the VIP Trader Guide.

Compared to established Japanese rivals, the Jeep Grand Cherokee looks like a genuine steal. A 2004 04-plate example with 30,000 miles is typically worth around £5,000 less than a similar Toyota Land Cruiser LC3.

And that’s the 2.7-litre CRD model, which delivers 161bhp and can manage more than 25mpg. Going for this cheap option doesn’t mean you have to make sacrifices, however – especially when it comes to rugged ability. The Grand Cherokee is a capable mud-plugger and has decent on-road dynamics. Limited and Overland specs even bring leather upholstery.

The few drawbacks include the lack of a seven-seat option and hard, shiny dash plastics, while buyers who opt for petrol models face huge fuel bills. What’s more, the heavily revised current version makes its boxy predecessor look dated. Nevertheless, £18,000 will get you a 2004 flagship oil-burner with 30,000 miles on the clock from a franchised Jeep dealer.