A used car expert has urged drivers to consider three attractive-looking yet ultra-reliable models that are widely available for under £5,000. Whilst the cost of a pre-owned car generally tends to increase in April, with supply of used models generally falling, there are still plenty of bargains on the market. In a blog post, the car repair financer Bumper suggested that drivers looking for a stylish city car with low running costs should consider a Toyota Aygo, with a £5,000 budget being enough for a second-generation model.
They said: "A city car first sold in the UK in 2005, the Aygo is a favourite of new drivers and inner-city commuters across the country. It features a spritely but dependable 1-litre petrol engine and a surprising amount of tech for the price. Just under £4,500 can get you a sub-10-year-old car, but if you want one with a nice spec and under 90,000 miles, a 2014 plate is more realistic."
The Aygo has been Toyota's entry-level model in Europe since 2005, with three generations being produced over the past 20 years.
With a £5,000 budget, drivers are able to get behind the wheel of an early second-generation example, built from 2014 to 2022 - featuring a tried-and-tested 1.0-litre petrol engine and youthful styling.
The model was also used as the basis of the second-generation Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108, which offer the same economical drivetrain but rounder styling and the option of a full-size canvas sunroof.
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Drivers looking for a slightly larger used car were urged by Bumper to take a look at the Volvo V40, with many ULEZ-compliant diesels now being within budget.
They added: "Volvo is known for its safe cars. The V40 was introduced as a slight deviation from their normal lineup of saloons or estates but has become one of their more popular models.
"Interior space is good, with plenty of room in the back for three, and the boot is sizable. I’d suggest a post-2015 model, just to avoid ULEZ and large VED (road tax) costs."
Finally, Bumper recommended the second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan to drivers who want a used SUV, noting that the styling is still very modern and the engines are generally very economical compared to rivals.
They added: "Despite being 10 years old, this shape of Tiguan has aged very well, possibly because the generation on has only just been replaced in the UK.
"Either way, they present well, with the height and size of an SUV, but the economy of a much smaller car. This model, thanks to it being the 2WD version, claims to be able to do nearly 60 miles to the gallon. Although, thanks to its age, it is £190 per year to tax."
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