Need your first car for around £3k? Here’s our three recommended cars for first time buyers…
Ford Fiesta – 2008-2017 models
Prices start from £2,500
The Fiesta is still very much a popular car even after all these years, and the good news is that if you’re looking for a Fiesta, there are always lots of them available for sale at competitive prices, so you won’t find it hard to source one! In terms of the model itself, the driving position should suit all builds of people, and the boot provides a decent amount of space for a compact supermini. And unlike many smaller cars, the Fiesta also comes in a range of engine sizes if the standard 1.0-litre engine is a little too restrictive. Remember, though, that smaller engines are generally cheaper to insure if you’re looking to keep insurance costs down.
In terms of downsides, they’re tough to locate for the Fiesta, but if we had to find one, the model is a little on the small side with restricted legroom in the rear. The rear seats also don’t fold fully flat, which may put some off if you’re looking for extra space in the boot. If you are searching for something a little roomier, alternatives such as the Vauxhall Corsa and Skoda Fabia offer more space and may prove a better option. Otherwise, as you expect with Ford, the Fiesta drives exceptionally well and is economical to run, which is always good for the wallet.
Vauxhall Corsa – 2014-2019 models
Prices start from £3,500
The Vauxhall Corsa is another excellent little runaround that needs serious consideration. It comes standard with solid equipment for most versions and, overall, is reliable and cheap to run, making it ideal for the budget-conscious motorist. In addition, the Corsa is an innovative, compact car usually grouped in the lower insurance tiers, making most variants cheaper to insure than many other vehicles. It’s also ULEZ compliant, meaning you won’t need to pay any charges if the ULEZ zone becomes part of your journey.
On the flip side, we have to say the Ford Fiesta wins on the drive experience, despite the Corsa being a close rival. However, the Corsa doesn’t lack the space, offering more headroom than the Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo, making it a good option if you need to house child seats in the back.
Otherwise, confusion over standard features may prevail with the availability of numerous model variants. Still, typically, the Life and Active variants are basic Corsa models, whilst the Sting, Excite, SRi and SE variants come with extras.
VW Polo – 2009-2017 models
Prices start from £3,000
The Volkswagen Polo is a solid, reliable, compact car with low running costs and lower insurance premiums than many other vehicles. In addition, it has a roomier interior than many of its supermini counterparts, providing a premium feel compared to, say, a Renault Clio or Fiesta. However, this Volkswagen quality is reflected in the Polo’s price, so it won’t necessarily be the cheapest option. And, if it’s the build quality and refinement you’re looking for, and you have the extra in your budget, then the Polo delivers. Add to that Volkswagen’s long history of delivering reliability and reassurance; the Polo is undoubtedly hard to beat. Indeed, it received top marks in Euro NCAP’s crash tests, a testament to the quality that Volkswagen consistently delivers. However, when it comes to the drive, we have to hand it to the Fiesta, which brings just a little more excitement.
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New Toyota Corolla Touring Sport 1.8 VVT-i Hybrid Icon 5dr CVT
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Best used car 2022
There were more than 7 million used car sales in 2022 while there were around 1.5 million of new car sales. Buying a used car is a great way to save money over a new one. Typically a car will lose 20% of value in its first year. In simple terms that’s £2,000 loss for every £10,000 of value.
Best used city car 2022 Skoda Citigo
Best used supermini 2022 Ford Fiesta
Best used compact family hatch 2022 Volkswagen Golf
Best used family car 2022 Vauxhall Insignia
Best used estate car 2022 Skoda Octavia Estate
Best used small SUV 2022 Citroen C3 Aircross
Best used mid-size SUV 2022 Skoda Karoq
Best used large SUV 2022 Volvo XC90
Best used compact executive 2022 Audi A4
Best used executive car 2022 Volvo S90
Best used luxury car 2022 Range Rover
Best used MPV 2022 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
Best used coupe 2022 Audi A5 Coupe
Best used convertible 2022 Mazda MX-5
Best used hot hatch 2022 Ford Fiesta ST
Best used sports car 2022 Porsche 911
Best used hybrid car 2022 Mercedes C 350 e
Best used electric car 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Electric
Best used van 2022 Ford Transit Custom
Used Car of the Year 2022 Skoda Karoq
Our guide to buying a car on gumtree.com
Buying a used car can be both exciting and daunting, but with the right approach, you can find a great deal that suits your needs and budget. Gumtree, a popular online marketplace, offers a vast selection of used cars. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth and successful used car purchase on Gumtree.
Research and Planning
Begin by determining your budget and what type of car you need.
Research makes and models that fit your criteria and read reviews to narrow down your options.
Consider factors like fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums.
Create a checklist of features and specifications you want in a car.
Browsing Gumtree
Visit the Gumtree website Gumtree | Free classified ads from the #1 classifieds site in the UK or app and use the search filters to refine your results.
Set filters for price range, location, make, model, and year.
Take your time browsing listings, and don’t rush into making a decision.
Verify the Seller
When you find a potential car, check the seller’s profile and rating on Gumtree.
Communicate with the seller to ask questions about the car’s history, condition, and maintenance records.
Ensure the seller is the registered owner and has a clear title for the vehicle.
Vehicle History and Inspection
Run a full check on checkamotor.co.uk run a background check to reveal any hidden issues.
Schedule a time to view and test drive the car.
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly, checking for signs of accidents, rust, or mechanical problems.
Negotiation and Documentation
Be prepared to negotiate the price with the seller.
Once you agree on a price, ask for a written receipt or agreement.
Ensure all necessary paperwork, including the title, service records, and bill of sale, is in order.
Payment and Transfer
Arrange a secure payment method. Cash is common, but bank transfers or cashier’s checks offer added security.
Complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership and register the car in your name.
Don’t forget to update your insurance policy to cover your new vehicle.
Conclusion
Buying a used car on Gumtree can be a rewarding experience when done right. By following this guide, you’ll minimize risks and maximize your chances of finding a reliable and affordable vehicle. Remember to take your time, do your due diligence, and, most importantly, enjoy the process of finding your perfect ride. Happy car hunting!
Take a bow Direct Line. £30m of refunds ouch!
As Churchill would say Oh yess..
We have done some research recently and have always found Direct Line costs around £300 to £400 more per annum for an insurance policy. We recommend using moneysupermarket.com or gocompare.com every time about 3 weeks before your insurance is due.
Direct Line Group, the owner of Churchill, Direct Line, and Privilege, is set to reimburse approximately £30 million to customers of these three brands who were charged more for renewing their home or car insurance compared to what they would have paid as new customers, violating Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations. In the following sections, we will detail what led to this situation, who it affects, and how refunds will be processed.
If you are considering renewing or purchasing a new insurance policy, we recommend consulting our Home insurance and Car insurance guides for valuable insights. You can also refer to our guide on factors influencing your car insurance quotes.
Direct Line Group’s Overcharging of Renewing Customers:
Starting on January 1, 2022, the FCA prohibited home and car insurance providers from imposing higher renewal prices on existing customers than what they would charge new customers for the same policy. Prior to these regulations, many insurers raised prices for loyal customers, a practice known as the ‘loyalty penalty.’
Direct Line Group has acknowledged an error in implementing these regulations across its three car and home insurance brands, resulting in some customers paying higher renewal rates than they should have.
At this stage, the exact number of affected customers remains unclear, although Direct Line Group asserts that the majority of those experiencing premium increases were not overcharged. The insurer is currently reviewing all home and motor insurance renewals made since the implementation of the FCA rules.
It’s important to note that Green Flag, also under the Direct Line Group umbrella, exclusively offers breakdown cover, which is not subject to the FCA’s renewal pricing rules. Consequently, Green Flag customers are unaffected by this error.
new-car-discount.com
We found a £3k saving on a Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv G MHEV Centre-Line 5dr that is worth sharing. Just click the link below..
The New Tesla Model 3
Exterior Changes
The car has a redesigned, slightly lower front end and narrower headlights, which not only gives it a slightly sportier look, but also improves the aerodynamics. This helps bring the range up to 629 km (391 miles) on the Long Range, all-wheel drive variant, and 513 km (319 miles) on the regular, rear-wheel drive variant. Prior to the refresh, these numbers were 602 km (374 miles) and 491 km (305 miles), so we’re looking at a roughly 5 percent improvement.
The rear end has also been changed, with a TESLA sign replacing the “T” logo, and new, pincer-like tail lights also giving the Model 3 a slightly more aggressive look. From the side, not much has changed, though the wheel choice is now between the 18-inch Photon wheels with new black hubcaps, and the 19-inch, silver-coloured, aluminium Nova wheels.
Interior Changes
The center touchscreen now has smaller bezels and more usable screen space; more precisely, the display’s diagonal has grown from 15 to 15.4 inches. On the photos, it looks similar to the display in the new Model S and Model X, but that one is still bigger at 17 inches. Tesla says the new screen is brighter with higher contrast, and more responsive.
Then there’s the entirely new, 8-inch rear display, allowing passengers in the back to control the air conditioning and watch the car’s entertainment. The sound has also been improved, with the number of speakers growing from 14 to 17. The Long Range model fares slightly better here, as it has two subwoofers and two amps, compared to the single amp on the Rear-Wheel Drive model.
The front seats are now comfier, Tesla says, and ventilated, while the rear seats are also comfier and perforated but not ventilated. And yes, the car now has customizable, ambient LED lighting.
The Best ULEZ-Compliant Cars on a budget
Are you on the hunt for a reliable used car that won’t incur those pesky ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges? Many cities around the world are increasingly tightening their restrictions on vehicle emissions, ushering in the era of ‘low emission zones’ or ‘clean air zones.’ Among these, the ‘Class D’ clean air zones are the ones that impact privately-owned cars the most. These zones dictate specific emissions criteria, and any vehicle failing to meet these standards faces the prospect of incurring charges when venturing into the designated areas.
While clean air schemes of various types have been in operation in cities like Bristol and Birmingham, London’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) scheme shines as one of the most noteworthy. What began as an initiative focused on the most congested and central parts of London expanded significantly in October 2021, stretching its boundaries to encompass the areas between the north and south circular roads. However, the ULEZ expansion continued, and on August 29, 2023, it broadened its reach to encompass all of the London boroughs, making almost all areas within the M25 part of the ULEZ.
So, what’s the key to avoiding those ULEZ charges? For petrol cars, it all comes down to meeting the Euro 4 emissions standards, which became mandatory for all new vehicles as early as 2005. Diesel cars face more stringent rules, as they need to adhere to Euro 6 emissions standards, which only became mandatory in September 2015, though many diesel cars before this date already met these requirements. If your beloved vehicle falls short of these standards, you’ll find yourself shelling out a daily £12.50 charge every time you enter the ULEZ.
Now, let’s delve into the best ULEZ-compliant cars that can help you navigate these stringent emissions regulations without breaking the bank:
Citroen C1 – Affordable and Eco-Friendly: The Citroen C1 proves that you don’t need to break the bank to own a ULEZ-compliant car. This compact city car, introduced in 2005, boasts Euro 4 emissions compliance, ensuring you can navigate London’s streets without incurring the £12.50 daily charge. While it might not be the roomiest option, its petite dimensions make it a breeze to maneuver through city traffic. Furthermore, its small petrol engines translate to cost-effective fuel consumption and insurance premiums. You’ll be pleased to know that used Citroen C1s can be found starting at a wallet-friendly £1,500.
Toyota Prius – Affordable Hybrid Excellence: As the first widely successful mass-market hybrid, the Toyota Prius has long been a symbol of eco-friendly driving. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly hybrid options on the market, with high-mileage examples available for as little as £3,500. For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, we recommend the third-generation Prius, introduced in 2009. All versions of this generation are ULEZ-compliant and offer a spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for city dwellers. It’s frugal on fuel and has earned a reputation for impeccable reliability, with many examples racking up over 250,000 miles. You can snag a well-maintained third-generation Prius with fewer than 100,000 miles on the odometer for around £7,500.
Mazda 6 – Affordable ULEZ-Compliant Diesel: Owners of older diesel cars face the toughest challenge when it comes to avoiding ULEZ charges. Euro 6 emissions regulations, the gold standard for diesel vehicles, weren’t introduced until a full decade after Euro 4 became mandatory for petrol cars. Fortunately, several diesel models met these requirements well before the September 2015 cutoff, including the third-generation Mazda6, launched in 2013. All diesel models of this generation are ULEZ-compliant. The Mazda6 is available as both a saloon and an estate, boasting a stylish design, a practical interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. Prices for used models start at a tantalizing £3,000.
Fiat 500 – Style and Urban Charm: The Fiat 500 has achieved icon status in urban areas since its revival by the Italian automaker in 2007. Its diminutive dimensions and nimble driving dynamics make it a joy to navigate through city streets. Despite being on the road for over 15 years, its fun and youthful styling has aged remarkably well. A variety of special editions, including the ‘Colour Therapy’ and ‘byGucci,’ have added extra flair to this chic Fiat. While most Fiat 500s are equipped with petrol engines, exempting them from ULEZ charges, a handful were sold with diesel powertrains. It’s essential to steer clear of these diesel variants if you aim to avoid ULEZ fees. Used Fiat 500s typically start at around £2,000.
BMW 3 Series Touring – Pet-Friendly Practicality: If you’re in the market for a practical estate car that doesn’t sacrifice driving pleasure, the BMW 3 Series Touring should be on your shortlist. With a capacious boot and ample rear seat space, it’s tailor-made for families. Additionally, it’s roomy enough to accommodate a larger canine companion comfortably in the rear cargo area. We recommend the sixth-generation BMW 3 Series Touring, available between 2012 and 2018. Earlier diesel variants from this era may not meet ULEZ standards, so if you aren’t planning extended motorway journeys, the smooth 320i is a fantastic choice. Prices for a well-maintained example typically start at £9,000.
Ford Fiesta – Widely Available and Affordable: The Ford Fiesta enjoys universal appeal, making it an excellent choice for new drivers or anyone seeking an affordable runabout. Our recommendation falls on the sixth-generation petrol models, available from 2009 to 2017. Throughout these years, the Fiesta consistently topped the charts as the best-selling car, resulting in a vast pool of used models to choose from. Opting for a petrol model from this era guarantees ULEZ compliance, as they are at least Euro 4 vehicles. This generation of the Fiesta boasts modern styling, enjoyable driving dynamics, and commendable fuel efficiency. However, it’s prudent to steer clear of diesel variants, as their ULEZ status is uncertain. You can typically find a used Fiesta from this era for approximately £1,500.