The recession is likely to hit families on a budget hardest if they have to change their car because the market is so erratic. Families wanting to be frugal will tend to assume they need to buy a mainstream brand such as Vauxhall or ‘discount’ brand such as Citroen.
But in fact, looking at the best and worst performers of the last 4 years, there are surprises among the niche, slightly more expensive cars. Saabs and Mazdas for example both make great sense for nearly new buyers wanting to trade after a couple of years. Here are three good picks that have lost a lot but shouldn’t lose much more than 2 or 3% in the year ahead:
Mazda 3
If you don't want to look like everyone else, want performance, reliability and value then the Mazda 3 is worthy of a test drive.
Best used buy: 1.6 TS
Most economical: 1.6 D
UsedCarExpert.com faults: 10
Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2008 Mazda 3 1.6 TS with 9,375 average miles is £9,340
Saab 9—3
Distinctive and fashionable styling without being controversial. Like its predecessor the 9-3 has an excellent balance of performance refinement handling and comfort.
Best used buy: 1.8 t Jet
Most economical: 1.9 TiD 50mpg
UsedCarExpert.com faults: 12
Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2008 Saab 9-3 1.8 t jet with 7280 average miles is £14,000
BMW 3-Series
Expensive and popular but probably worth it. Handling and performance are market-leading. Space and equipment are average. But the badge ensures admiring glances.
Best used buy: 318d
Most economical: 320i M sport
UsedCarExpert.com faults: 14
Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2006 BMW 325i SE with 41,000 average miles is £14,106.