Right, every other type of shop has a January sale. Car dealers may not make it so obvious, but I think we should start the year as we mean to go on and seek out the very cheapest deals.
Here are three cars where the Used Car Expert magazine’s guide price varies by more than £1,000 from the lowest (“BEST”) to highest (“TOP”) price. No matter where the car you fancy falls in the range, call the dealer and use this magic phrase, “I am interested in Car X, but can only afford £Y (quote the BEST price) and I have seen some for that price, but you are nearer.”
BMW 1-Series
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It feels like a 3-Series to drive. Cramped and impractical in comparison to Audi and Mercedes' entry-level cars but, because its more like a car and less like a bubble, it makes it the only alternative for some.
Most economical: 118d
Best used buy: 1.6 or 2.0 petrols
Used Car Expert magazine price guide: A 2004 1.6 M Sport with 31,000 average miles on the clock, will vary around the UK in price from £8,500 to £10,704. That’s a potential saving of over £2,000.
New shape Ford Fiestas
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
Best used buy: 1.2 Zetecs
Used Car Expert magazine price guide: 2008 year 1.2 Zetecs with 11,000 average miles on the clock will vary around the UK in price from £8,900 to £10,007. A saving of £1,100.
Skoda Fabia
A Skoda Fabia sits between the small and small family car categories. Ideal for the family that need space but don't like big cars. Very capable all rounder. A rival to Kia's Rio.
Most economical: 1.4 TDI
Best used buy: 1.9 TDI
Used Car Expert magazine price guide: A 1.9 TDI Scout with 5,500 average miles on the clock, will vary around the UK in price from £8,600 to £10,773. That’s a potential saving of over £2,000.