If you are looking for a sensible used car, what do you need? Whether it’s a run-around or a family hatchback, the key things are: A good price, low mileage and a car that is not too old for fear it might become unreliable.
So I have just looked up the depreciation and mileage for 3 year old used cars, and found that these three represent some of the best deals out there:
Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta has always been good to drive but the later model was usefully larger. Depreciation is steep which is good for used buyers and there are always plenty to choose from.
Most economical: 1.4 TDCI 65.7mpg
Low mileage example: 2006 Ghia
UsedCarExpert.com checks: 11
Used Car Expert price guide: A 2006 1.6 Ford Fiesta Ghia can be found for as little as £5,700 with just 18,000 miles on the clock
Kia Magentis
Anonymous family car which manages to offer plenty of interior space and equipment in a price that only gets smaller on the used market. Not an entertaining drive but that is irrelevant.
Most economical: 2.0
Low mileage example: 2.0 LS
UsedCarExpert.com checks: 5
Used Car Expert price guide: A 2006 2.0 LS can be found for as little as £3,600 with just 10,000 miles on the clock.
Fiat Seidici
Underrated, overlooked and understated soft roader. It is well-built, easy to drive and works well on and off road. Fiat badge and lack of market impact means than it is good value used.
Most economical: 1.9 Diesel
Low mileage example: 1.6 Petrol
UsedCarExpert.com checks: N/A
Used Car Expert price guide: A 2006 1.6 Dynamic can be found for as little as £5,000 with just 9600 miles on the clock.