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 Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £25,235Avg. savings £2,502 off RRP*Used from £11,295
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £4,422 off RRP*Used from £7,495
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,639 off RRP*Used from £10,195
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,075 off RRP*Used from £11,700
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Nissan Sakura 2026 review: a kei car for Europe?
Nissan Sakura - front tracking

New Nissan Sakura 2026 review: a kei car for Europe?

All-electric versions of Japan’s kei car will help to form the basis of a new, low-cost, low-regulation EV from Europe’s manufacturers
Road tests
23 Dec 2025
Electric cars are great, but not for everyone
Opinion - electric cars are great for some

Electric cars are great, but not for everyone

Mike Rutherford explains why Britain should follow in the EU’s footsteps
Opinion
23 Dec 2025
New Kia EV3 GT is about to spice up the small SUV world
Kia EV3 GT - front 3/4

New Kia EV3 GT is about to spice up the small SUV world

Even the mild-manner EV3 crossover is getting the GT treatment
News
23 Dec 2025