Let’s get one thing straight: Scrappage was an industry incentive first, a consumer incentive second. A £2,000 discount off a newer, greener car was a valid discount, better than most would secure under normal circumstances. So it was right to be a success.
But in pure consumer value-for-money terms it wasn’t great advice. Not only have you always been able to get more off by buying nearly new, or get the same discount using a broker, but it encouraged people to buy cars without considering depreciation. For example, people who bought these three cars (and 2 were top sellers), at £2,000 less than retail price will lose all of that to depreciation over the first 12-18 months alone. Plus, if they need to sell the car fast because their circumstances change, they may struggle as there are so many in the market at dealers for not much more:
Citroen C3
Quirky and clever hatch and Pluriel convertible. Cheap when new and getting cheaper still. Once out of warranty even better value with great specifications.
Most economical: 1.4 Hdi
UsedCarExpert.co.uk prices & depreciation: A new C3 1.4 Hdi after scrappage discount is around £9,590. In 18 months it’s worth as little as £7,445.
Ford Fiesta
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Economical to buy, run and maintain, but this is also a Fiesta with personality, at last. A striking, modern design that marks this out as a young person's car, while still having broad and popular appeal.
Most economical: 1.4 TDCI
UsedCarExpert.co.uk prices & depreciation: A new Fiesta 1.4 TDCI after scrappage discount is around £11,000. In 18 months it’s worth as little as £9,532.
Toyota Yaris
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Inside, the Yaris offers loads of stowage options plus it is good to drive and cheap to run. It's also stylish and in great demand and because it is pricey new, it remains costly used.
Most economical: 1.4 D
UsedCarExpert.co.uk prices & depreciation: A new Yaris 1.4 D after scrappage discount is around £11,000. In 18 months it’s worth as little as £9,000.