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The Best Used Cars Under £10,000 in 2025
These are the best used cars you can buy for under £10k.
Buying a new car can be a tricky endeavour for many people. Not only is the purchase typically expensive, but there are also a lot of things you need to consider to ensure that you get the best car for you.
One of the main things you need to think about is your budget, and for some, the amount you’re able to spend can be restrictive and stop you from getting your dream car. Thankfully, the issue regarding a small budget is eased somewhat when you start using the second-hand market to find a car.
The used car market in the UK is a thriving industry where you should be able to find fantastic vehicles for a great price. When buying a new car directly from the manufacturer, it might be tough to get a tremendous model for under £10,000. However, if you start browsing the second-hand market with that amount of cash ready to spend, you should find it easy to find fantastic, good-quality vehicles.
Here’s a look at some of the best-used cars that Car Adviser have been able to find online for under £10,000. The site also has lists and guides for different kinds of vehicles at various price points, and you can also find car maintenance tips and buying guides here on Car Adviser.
In this guide
Ford Fiesta ST
The Ford Fiesta ST is a high-performance version of Ford’s popular hatchback car. This model is known for its impressive engine, agile handling, and stylish exterior design.
Those that manage to pick up a Ford Fiesta will be thoroughly impressed with its performance on both city streets and winding country roads, making it a good all-rounder that suits all circumstances.
The Ford Fiesta ST packs a powerful punch thanks to its turbocharged EcoBoost engine, which delivers energetic acceleration even at higher speeds. The car also handles beautifully, with sharp steering and responsive brakes, allowing you to navigate turns confidently.
And not only does the Ford Fiesta ST look great, but it also has many upscale features, such as leather seats and ambient lighting, that help to create an elegant, luxurious interior. That said, you may have to pay a little over £10,000 for higher-spec used Fiestas.
The Ford Fiesta lacks cargo space, sacrificing boot space to ensure the cabin is comfortable within its small body size. This means that it may not be the most practical option for many drivers, especially if you often require a lot of space.
That said, no matter what type of model you get, the Fiesta ST is a highly recommended used car.
Ford Fiesta ST Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good engine and handling
- Upscale interior with more modern models
- Perfect on multiple road conditions
Cons
- Limited boot space
- High-spec options may be over £10,000
Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 is an impeccable saloon famous among UK drivers looking for a reliable, high-performance vehicle. With sleek styling and a choice of powerful engines, the Mazda 6 offers all the performance and comfort you could want in a dependable car. However, it’s certainly not the fastest and most exciting vehicle.
Additionally, if you get a more modern Mazda 6, the vehicle comes packed with cutting-edge features to make every drive a breeze. These features include adaptive cruise control for smooth, responsive braking and acoustic glass to keep out wind and road noise on longer drives.
However, this vehicle does have some drawbacks. For one, it can be tricky to find a used Mazda 6 on the market, given that this car tends to be quite popular among drivers.
Additionally, Mazda 6 owners may have issues with the reliability of this vehicle over time. While initial reviews touted its durability and quality performance, some recent consumer reviews indicate that Mazda 6 models can develop problems after only a few years of use.
Despite these drawbacks, whether you’re looking for a used Mazda 6 from recent years or the latest model, this car has everything you need to stay safe and comfortable on the road.
Mazda 6 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reliable and high-performing car
- Comfortable to drive
- A quiet vehicle that keeps road noise out
Cons
- Other saloons outperform it
- It can be hard to get your hands on
- More likely to get maintenance problems
Renault Kadjar
The Renault Kadjar is a stylish and sophisticated crossover SUV that is perfect for drivers who want an all-purpose vehicle that offers both comfort and performance.
Designed with both practicality and style in mind, the Renault Kadjar boasts an elegant exterior and a spacious interior. And despite its size, this versatile SUV provides a smooth and responsive driving experience even on winding roads, which can be attributed to its hatchback characteristics.
Renault has been criticised for failing to equip the vehicle with all-wheel drive, which limits its versatility in certain situations.
Additionally, some drivers have complained that the car can feel unstable at busy junctions and sharp corners, making drivers feel a bit less comfortable when behind the wheel of this vehicle.
The car’s performance can be a bit more laboured than other cars, mainly because its increased weight gives you more practicality than driving ability.
With a range of high-tech safety features, the Renault Kadjar provides a safe and reliable ride at all times. And thanks to its advanced engine design, the Renault Kadjar delivers strong fuel efficiency without compromising power or performance. Overall, this crossover SUV has it all if you’re looking for a bulkier, light SUV.
Renault Kadjar Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great mixture of comfort and performance
- Spacious and practical
- Good fuel economy
- Safe and reliable vehicle
Cons
- No four-wheel-drive option
- Can feel unstable at higher speeds
- Weaker performance when compared to smaller hatchbacks
Nissan Juke
Similar to the Renault Kadjar, The Nissan Juke is a compact crossover SUV that has become one of the most popular vehicles in its class. Sleek, sporty, and packed with all the latest technology, this versatile vehicle can handle everything from city streets to motorways and can even handle very bumpy dirt roads too.
The responsive steering makes handling easy and precise, while the advanced infotainment system found on more modern models keeps you connected at all times. Overall, the Nissan Juke delivers an engaging and luxurious driving experience that will please any discerning driver.
The car is larger than most hatchbacks, although smaller than a typical SUV. This gives the vehicle good practicality whether you are looking for reliable family transport or an exciting weekend getaway vehicle.
Despite these many benefits, there are also some downsides to the Nissan Juke. For example, the cargo space in this vehicle is relatively small compared to larger SUVs, a class it’s trying to compete against.
In addition, some drivers report feeling unstable when running errands in narrow or crowded city streets due to its higher centre of gravity than other vehicles in their class.
All considered, the Juke is likely one of the best cars of this type and is certainly one that you should consider when exploring the second-hand market.
Nissan Juke Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good driving performance on multiple roads
- Good level of practicality
- Modern models have nice quality-of-life features
Cons
- Less boot space when compared to other SUVs
- An unusual centre of gravity makes the car feel unstable
Citroen Grand C4
The Citroen Grand C4 is a modern and stylish car that provides many benefits to drivers. The vehicle has a sleek design, with aerodynamic curves and sporty rims that make it stand out on the road. This design makes it a popular car for younger drivers and is undoubtedly one that’s going to turn heads.
Its high-quality interior features comfortable seating, allowing you to ride comfortably whether commuting to work or taking a family road trip. Additionally, Citroen Grand C4 is an efficient and reliable vehicle with excellent gas mileage and cutting-edge safety features that help to protect your vehicle from damage.
However, the Citroen Grand C4 does have a few downsides as well. For one thing, this car can be quite costly up front, especially for a second-hand car. Thankfully, many second-hand sellers will offer finance options where you can pay monthly, with Cazoo being a popular online option.
In addition, the Citroen Grand C4 may only be suitable for some driving conditions as it does have some issues with handling at higher speeds or in inclement weather conditions.
Despite these drawbacks, though, Citroen Grand C4 remains one of the best options on the market for those looking for a top-of-the-line vehicle on the used car market.
Citroen Grand C4 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish and eye-catching looking car
- A comfortable and sleek interior
- Good fuel efficiency
Cons
- Poor handling at higher speeds
- Struggles in bad weather conditions
BMW 130i
The BMW 130i is a popular sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience while also being an easily attainable vehicle. BMW is a highly desirable brand, thanks to its cars having that trademark class and elegant appearance.
With its aerodynamic design and powerful engine, the BMW 130i can reach up to 180 miles per hour and accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. This makes it great for motorway driving and also gives you an excellent thrust when pulling away from red lights in town.
The BMW 130i’s high-performance features make it the perfect choice for any car enthusiast who likes to enjoy a fast and thrilling drive. However, like any sports car, the BMW 130i has its share of pros and cons. While it may offer great acceleration and handling capabilities, this model also requires premium diesel or petrol to ensure it keeps its high performance and can be pretty expensive to maintain over time.
Despite these drawbacks, many drivers continue to opt for the BMW 130i because of its high-quality performance features, making it an excellent addition, especially as you can own one for less than £10,000, thanks to the second-hand market.
BMW 130i Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fantastic acceleration and top speed
- Great agility and cornering
- Stylish exterior and interior
Cons
- High maintenance costs due to premium fuel requirements
- Lacks practicality
Lexus LS
The Lexus LS is a luxury saloon known for its elegant design, top-of-the-line performance, and advanced technology features. With its clean lines and sculpted contours, this car exudes luxury from every angle.
Its powerful engine also makes it ideal for drivers who want a sense of speed and control on the road. Its specs make it best suited for long-haul drivers making frequent motorway journeys, as you can enjoy increased comfort and performance.
Despite being a well-made, beautiful car, the Lexus LS also has some drawbacks. For example, it tends to be more expensive than other cars in its class due to the high level of quality materials used in its construction. This is illustrated in its second-hand price, as although it’s possible to find an LS for under £10,000, it can be challenging.
Additionally, some critics have noted that certain features within the Lexus system can be challenging to navigate and use effectively, with the UI needing to be more intuitive. Of course, you avoid this issue if you get an older LS that omits the system, but it is an issue for those getting modern models.
Despite these limitations, the Lexus LS remains one of the most popular luxury cars on the market today. Whether you are looking for a comfortable long-distance cruiser or an exhilarating sports car experience, this vehicle truly delivers.
Lexus LS Pros and Cons
Pros
- Top quality saloon car
- The powerful engine made perfect for motorway driving
- High-spec technology and design
Cons
- It is expensive and could cost a little over £10,000 in some cases
- The infotainment system has poor UI
- Like most other saloons, it lacks practicality
Audi A4
The A4 is one of the most popular models of Audi’s line of luxury saloons. Known for its sleek design, smooth ride, and high level of performance, this vehicle has a lot to offer drivers on UK roads.
On the positive side, the Audi A4 offers top-of-the-line features and amenities that make driving comfortable and exciting, which many driving enthusiasts are looking for. With intelligent safety features, and a powerful engine under the hood, this car has plenty to offer even discerning drivers. Additionally, Audi has a reputation for quality vehicles that are built to last, which means that the Audi A4 is sure to hold up well over time, making it a reliable car to buy on the second-hand market.
However, there are some downsides as well. For one thing, Audi vehicles are known for being expensive compared to other cars in their class. Although you can get them for under £10,000, you may find better value when getting a different saloon model.
Additionally, while Audi vehicles typically get good marks for handling and road performance on well-regarded car reviews, they don’t always live up to their billing in actual use on tougher roads despite additional dealer add-ons used to enhance safety on unpaved surfaces.
For these reasons and others, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons when considering whether or not to buy an Audi A4 for your next vehicle purchase.
Audi A4 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Smooth ride
- Comfortable while also being exciting to drive
- Reliable and durable cars
Cons
- Expensive for its class
- Struggles to perform on tougher roads
Toyota GT
Toyota GTs are some of the most popular performance cars on the market today that still remain budget-friendly. This is due, in part, to their powerful engines and sleek design.
Toyota GTs are known for delivering responsive power, quick acceleration, and effortless handling. These features combined make them extremely fun to drive and reliable on the road. The exterior of these vehicles is also very stylish and striking, with the car oozing power. The interior is also lovely and slick, albeit a little simple in parts.
On the other hand, they can also be expensive to maintain and upgrade over time if you’re focused on prolonging their top performance.
While these vehicles offer a thrilling driving experience that many car enthusiasts crave, ensuring that the engine is in good health constantly can be time-consuming and require a lot of effort. Plus, most GTs are only two-door, meaning that they lack practicality and won’t suit a family, for example.
Whether you are a fan of Toyota GTs will depend on your individual preferences and budget. It won’t be the right car if you need something practical, but it is perfect for those looking for something fun.
Toyota GT Pros and Cons
Pros
- Really powerful
- Fun to drive
- Striking looks
Cons
- Not practical at all
- It can be expensive to maintain top-performance
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a popular car for many reasons. Its sleek, stylish design and powerful engine make it perfect for quickly navigating city streets or taking long road trips.
It’s a luxury car that is comfortable and smooth to drive and control, using cutting-edge driving technology to provide drivers with the best experience possible.
Additionally, its advanced safety features ensure drivers are always protected on the road. Modern versions will have cruise control, lane spit alerts and other forms of technology to take the stress out of driving.
The A-Class isn’t going to whip you road corners, as its performance is more measured and focused on being comfortable instead of erratic.
Despite being one of the best luxury cars you can get for under £10,000, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class also has a few downsides. Some critics have pointed out that its large size can be challenging to manoeuvre in tight spaces, making it pretty tough to park and position in towns and cities.
It’s also a bit tough to find for under £10,000, and your options will be a bit more limited and basic unless you can stretch your budget a little bit over this benchmark.
Overall, the A-Class is a fantastic vehicle and is one that you should definitely consider getting from the second-hand market.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class Pros and Cons
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Controlled, smooth and comfortable ride
- Great quality interior
- Modern options come with great technology and features
Cons
- Tough to manoeuvre in tight corners
- Expensive, so may have limited options for under £10,000
Used Cars FAQs
What are the best used cars under 10,000?
These are the best used cars you can buy for under £10,000 in 2025:
- Ford Fiesta ST
- Mazda 6
- Renault Kadjar
- Nissan Juke
- Citroen Grand C4
- BMW 130i
- Lexus LS
- Audi A4
- Toyota GT
- Mercedes-Benz A-Class
What are some things to look for when inspecting a used car?
When inspecting a used car, there are several important factors that you should keep in mind. One of the first things to look at is the engine. This will give you a good sense of how well the car has been maintained over time and whether any major issues have cropped up in the past.
It would be best if you also examined any bodywork for signs of rust or dents, as these can be costly repairs down the road. Additionally, it's important to check for any visible leaks and ensure that all of the lighting and electronics work properly.
You should also look at the mileage clock and see if the number shown matches up with the car's condition. Although it would be best to get a car with low mileage if its wear looks inconsistent and greater than the mileage suggests, it's a sign that the clock may have been tampered with.
By taking all of these things into account when inspecting a used car, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right purchase for you.
How do you check a used car's history?
When buying a used car, it is crucial to check its history thoroughly to ensure that you are getting a reliable and safe vehicle. An important step is to look at any previous records for the car, such as service logs or repair receipts, as this will let you know of any common issues the car has had.
You should also look at the logbook to see how many previous owners the car has had and if it's been in an accident or written off.
It's also wise to search the registration plate online to make sure that the information on record matches the car you see.
By checking into these sources carefully and thoroughly, you can get a better sense of the overall condition of the used car and make an informed decision about whether or not it is right for you.
With diligence and careful attention to detail, you can be confident in your used car purchase and drive away happy.
How do you find a reputable used car dealer?
When looking for used cars for sale, finding a reputable used car dealer is essential. This can be challenging, as there are many different used car dealers out there, and not all of them are equally trustworthy.
To find a reputable used car dealer, the best place to start is to look at online reviews or consult review sites like Car Adviser to get an idea of how other people have rated various used car dealers.
Once you've shortlisted a few candidates, you must visit their physical location and check out their vehicles in person. You can tell if a dealership is reputable if they're happy to disclose information about a car. If a dealer holds information close to their chest, that can be a bad sign.