IF you need a good, cheap car then more often than not you are better off with a well-known and established brand, and a popular type of car.
They usually these make the best bet because they are relatively easy and cheap to fix, inexpensive to service in relation to premium marques and, best of all, there’s loads of dealers about and loads of cars in the market.
But don’t think you have to. The canny buyer is always flexible about what kind of motor they intend to buy.
There are loads of offbeat alternatives around. There may be many reasons you don’t want to follow the herd and, if you don’t fancy a Focus or an Astra, there’s plenty of choice.
With a budget of £5,000 there are loads of left field and more interesting choices you can make, and still have warranty and piece of mind. Here, from the UsedCarExpert, are three of the best.
Chevrolet Cruze
The Cruze is a car we often recommend, which is high praise indeed. An utterly rational purchase with a great range of engines. Strong refinement combined with a simple, quality cabin and surprisingly good dynamics complete the picture. Cheap too and with a five year warranty.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk Cars for sale: A four year old car, with a year’s warranty left, a 1.6 petrol engine and only 34,000 miles on the clock, can be had £4,999. The cheapest comparable diesel is £700 more and has 25,000 more miles showing.
Hyundai i30
Although not an especially radical choice the i30 is often overlooked and, on the road, is easily comparable with Europe’s best. Superb reliability, a five-year warranty and some really nice design touches make this car a canny buy.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk Cars for sale: A 1.4 petrol car with under 45,000 miles on the clock, at four years old, is for sale at £4,990. The only diesel car on the market under £5,000 has 80,000 miles on the clock.
Saab 9-3
A really left field choice. The collapse of Saab has really softened prices but parts and expertise are still plentiful. Get yourself a private warranty and run a brilliant car for peanuts. The 9-3 is a quantum leap from the cars above. It’s a proper premium item, superb to drive and very comfortable, the car also has a safety record second to none.
UsedCarExpert.co.uk Cars for sale: A six-year-old car, with Saab’s brilliant and tough 1.9 diesel motor and 45,000 miles on the clock, can be had for £4,500. Get a decent private warranty and you’re away.
Motors.co.uk value verdict:
