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.
Stringers of Petersfield
GCS Cars Ltd
Arnold Clark Renault/Dacia (Dumfries)
Historics Classic and Sportscar Auctions Ltd
M&M Automotive
Monks Park Motors
Swaan Motors Ltd
MH Prestige Limited
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Motoring news from around the country
This guide will break down drivetrain meaning, its types, and how they impact your driving experience and costs. Plus, we’ll connect you to useful buying tips and tools to make y... (27-01-2025)
For car buyers who want a vehicle that strikes a perfect balance between aesthetics and everyday practicality, the Ford ST-Line trim might be the answer. But what makes the ST-Line... (27-01-2025)
You’ve done your research and you think you’ve found the right vehicle, so a good next step is a pre-purchase inspection (PPI). But what is a pre-purchase inspection? And do yo... (16-01-2025)