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

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £38,030Avg. savings £3,499 off RRP*Used from £11,406
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £3,075 off RRP*Used from £7,195
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £3,330 off RRP*Used from £15,900
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,713 off RRP*Used from £10,970
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Long-term test: BYD Sealion 7
BYD Sealion 7 - front tracking

Long-term test: BYD Sealion 7

Second report: all is not rosy in the garden when it comes to driving our BYD
Long-term tests
13 Mar 2026
New Renault Bridger baby SUV could be coming to Europe, but as a Dacia
Renault Bridger - front

New Renault Bridger baby SUV could be coming to Europe, but as a Dacia

Work is underway to see if the chunky, Indian-built utility vehicle could build a bridge to Europe
News
12 Mar 2026
New Ford Capri Collection gets Touring Car looks and large rear wing
Ford Capri Collection - front

New Ford Capri Collection gets Touring Car looks and large rear wing

Special-edition Ford Capri gets a more aggressive bodykit, as well as a handful of subtle retro touches
News
12 Mar 2026