Skip advert
Advertisement

Britain's 48 new and used best buys

On the look-out for your next motor? We've put together an extensive guide rounding up the best cars you should be considering in six price bands.

renaultsport r26r

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.
 

Advertisement - Article continues below

>> 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

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,045Avg. savings £3,528 off RRP*Used from £8,970
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,275Avg. savings £2,638 off RRP*Used from £7,195
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,310Avg. savings £2,713 off RRP*Used from £10,577
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,495Avg. savings £1,925 off RRP*Used from £6,888
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New BMW iX3 gets cheaper with ‘40’ trim added, and it’ll still go 395 miles
BMW iX3 40 - front tracking

New BMW iX3 gets cheaper with ‘40’ trim added, and it’ll still go 395 miles

The new entry-level iX3 has been revealed, and it’ll still do 395 miles of range
News
31 Mar 2026
Maybe I’m just getting old, but modern cars should be less complex to drive
Opinion - Paul Barker driving the Polestar 3

Maybe I’m just getting old, but modern cars should be less complex to drive

Editor Paul Barker wants his car to act more like a car, and less like a smartphone
Opinion
1 Apr 2026
Best car engines of all time
Best car engines - header image

Best car engines of all time

What makes a great internal-combustion motor? We explain why these petrols, diesels and even a hybrid made the list
Features
3 Apr 2026