Used cars for sale under £20,000
If you have a budget of ?20,000 you might be tempted to purchase brand new. However, there are plenty of used car options for ?20,000 on the second-hand market giving you more value for money. Whether you're searching for a spacious family car or simply seeking a reliable car at an affordable price, we have a great selection of hatchbacks, SUVs, saloons, coupes and estates that won't break the bank.
With a budget of ?20,000, you'll find an array of reliable, used petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric cars from trusted dealers across the UK with MOTORS.
Mercedes-Benz, C Class
2017 (67) - C220d Sport 4dr
Ford, Kuga
2021 - EcoBoost Duratec ST-Line X 5-Door
SEAT, Ibiza
2024 (24) - 1.0 TSI 110 FR Sport 5dr
- 1L
- 11.4kMiles
- Petrol
- Manual
- Hatchback
Fife Seat SEAT Kirkcaldy
Volkswagen, Polo
2025 - 1.0 TSI Life 5dr
Vauxhall, Crossland X
2020 (20) - 1.2T [130] Elite Nav 5dr [Start Stop] Auto Petrol Hatchback
Ford, Focus
2019 - 2.0 EcoBlue ST-Line X 5dr Auto
BMW, X3
2005 - 2.0 X3 2.0d SE 5-Door
Peugeot, 208
2014 (14) - 1.2 VTi Active 5dr
Land Rover, Range Rover Sport
2016 - 4.4 SDV8 Autobiography Dynamic 5dr Auto [SS]
MG, MG3
2025 - 1.5 Hybrid+ MHEV Trophy Hatchback 5dr Petrol Hybrid Auto Euro 6 (s/s) (194
Ford, Focus
2018 - 1.0 T EcoBoost Zetec 5-Door
SEAT, Ibiza
2023 (23) - 1.0 TSI FR Hatchback 5dr Petrol DSG Euro 6 (s/s) (110 ps)
Cupra, Formentor
2021 - 1.5 TSI 150 V1 5dr DSG
Volvo, XC40
2021 - 1.5h T4 Recharge 10.7kwh R Design Suv 5dr Petrol Plug In Hybrid Auto Euro 6
Vauxhall, Crossland
2022 - 1.2 Turbo [130] Ultimate 5dr Auto
- 1.2L
- 5kMiles
- Petrol
- Auto
- Hatchback
Arnold Clark Wakefield Motorstore / Vanstore
Mercedes-Benz, C Class
2017 (67) - 2.0 C200 AMG Line Euro 6 (s/s) 2dr
Before buying any car, there are some checks you should do to ensure the vehicle you are looking to purchase is safe and matches what is being advertised by the dealer.
Conduct some visual checks
Conducting visual checks is the first step you should take before purchasing a used car. This includes inspecting things like the paint and bodywork, checking the tyres and also examining the windscreen, windows and lights to ensure there isn't any damage and everything is in correct working order.
Also, don't be afraid to lift the bonnet and check the engine to ensure the internal components appear as they should.
Test drive the vehicle
Taking the car for a test drive will give you the opportunity to check that the vehicle is working as it should. As you drive the car, listen for any unusual noises whilst testing the clutch, brakes and acceleration. This is also a good opportunity to test additional features such as the heating, air conditioning, radio and infotainment system if the car has this.
Ask to see the car's documents
When you are viewing the vehicle, it is also a good idea to check the car's documents in person. This includes things such as the V5C document, MOT certificates, service history and the vehicle handbook. Inspecting these documents will highlight any issues the car has had and whether they have been rectified.
For further advice and guidance on things to consider before buying a used car, check out our used car buying checklist.
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What car can you buy for £20,000?
With a budget of £20,000, you will be able to purchase a used quality car within this range. This includes both petrol and diesel models as well as a range of high-quality electric models. Popular models within this price range include the Audi TT, BMW 1 Series, Mercedes C-Class, Kia Niro, Jaguar XE and Mazda MX-5.
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Can you buy an electric car for under £20,000?
In the second-hand market, you will find a hugely diverse and appealing set of used EVs for under £20,000. Notable EV models within this price range include the Citroen e-C4, Fiat 500 Electric, Hyundai Ioniq, Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe, and the Vauxhall Mokka X.
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What checks should I do before buying a car?
Before buying any used car you should thoroughly inspect the vehicle using a used car buying checklist. Inspecting components such as tyres, engines, brakes and exhausts, will help you to understand the current condition of the car and if it requires any inspections or work by a professional garage. It is also a good idea to test-drive the vehicle before purchasing it so you can be confident it works as expected. This also allows you to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have.