The cars in this list have been chosen by our team of expert journalists who have collectively driven, assessed and scrutinised every car from the last 20 years.
When selecting the best used cars, we set out to find the best examples from several different categories, including SUVs, estates and performance cars.
We also tried to focus on models which offered good reliability, strong value for money, sensible running costs and genuine driver appeal.
Value for money
While value for money is largely subjective and varies depending on the type, age and mileage of the used car you’re hoping to buy, it is perhaps the most important factors to consider. We assessed each car’s value for money depending on which segement it fell into, taking into account age, reliability, running costs, equipment, space, practicality and, in specific cases, performance, ride and handling.
Running costs
When compiling our list, we reviewed the running costs of different used cars such as fuel expenses, insurance, tax and servicing and maintenance.
Performance and handling
All cars in this list we evaluated for ride comfort, body control, performance and steering response. The cars in this list have all been put through our intensive road test, with some models achieving an impressive four-and-half star rating.
Reliability
We used owner’s forums and specialist websites to understand the specific issues that affect the cars in this list. Most cars suffer from software issues and infotainment glitches. We also looked at different brands and their reliability record as a whole.
Comfort and durability
We assessed each car’s interior quality, inspecting the materials used, overall fit and finish and resistance to wear.
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