The Best Car for Your Budget

If you’re reading this, you may be unsure about your next car purchase. Deciding on a car is a tough decision and is influenced by many factors. The biggest influence is budget; this can take you from an everyday car to a sports car. Everyone’s budgets differ, so Marsh Finance has provided our top choices for various budgets. We have looked at the best cars for the following prices;

• <£5,000
• <£15,000
• <£30,000
• <£50,000

Ready to find the right car for your budget? Let’s go!

Best cars for under £5,000

BMW Z4

The Z4 has always been a fast and punchy car that is fun to drive. A convertible car, the Z4 can provide that escape from reality for a modest price. Used Z4 models can cost less than £5,000, making them a cheap option for those looking for fun on the road. You will be looking at an older model for the price, but don’t let this dampen your spirits; the Z4 has consistently been known for its handling. Whatever Z4 you choose, expect an enjoyable and different driving experience from a classic A to B car. Z4s built around 2006 are most likely in your price range, and although this was some time ago, the Z4 can be an excellent opportunity to drive differently from normal. Below are some stats for the Z4 2006 model.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus has been a staple of the car industry since its launch in 1998. The Focus is reliable and gets you from point to point. For your price range, the Ford Focus you get will be older and with fewer specs than a more recent car. A Ford Focus in this price range will be best for those just wanting to get from A to B. Your options can range from a hatchback to a 5-door Focus, and we recommend searching around for the car that best suits your needs. 

Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Yaris is another practical option that is efficient and reliable. The Yaris model recently reached a significant milestone, with 10 million cumulative global sales in March 2023. A massively popular car, the Yaris is almost guaranteed to provide a safe and steady drive. A Yaris under £5,000 will see you driving the 2012 model. Although older, this model still has all the features you could need, including anti-lock brakes, rearview cameras and audio. 

Best used cars for under £15,000

BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series is a standard fixture on UK roads and one of the most popular hatchbacks around. A stylish interior that transcends its price tag makes you feel like you’re getting fantastic value for money. All the trimmings of the car are excellent, and the drive is surprisingly fun. The BMW 1 Series is a great option for new families who are in the process of transitioning to a bigger SUV-style car. With the £15,000 price tag, you can expect to get any model from 2011 to 2019, ensuring you can get a relatively new vehicle that ticks all the boxes. The latest model you could afford would be any used 2017-2019 models.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf was one of the first electric vehicles on the UK market in 2011. As electric cars go, a used Nissan Leaf is one of the cheapest. For this reason, we felt we had to include it in this list. With clean air zones coming into effect across UK cities, buying an electric car is now. Soon, government incentives for electric vehicles may cease to exist. Going electric has always been challenging. The Nissan Leaf is compact whilst being able to store a reasonable amount. The Leaf is one of the best options for young families looking to be more environmentally conscious. 

Best cars for under £30,000

Volvo XC60

This car has retained the typical features that make a Volvo what it is, the unmistakable headlight design and striking rear LD lights combined with reliable design and build. With the car itself, engines have plenty of choices, provided you are not looking for diesel. With all the technology you could need, from Bluetooth to speed-sensitive steering, the XC60 is a technology-driven SUV that excels in its field. A perfect option for families, the most recent XC60 has the potential to be electric. Charging time for an electric XC60 is around 5 hours, which is expected within the electric car industry. A car that guarantees reliable performance whilst offering all the extras you would expect from a luxury car. The XC60 is genuinely a fantastic used car option for under £30,000. Be aware, of course, that for the price, you will need to purchase an older model of the XC60.

Porsche Cayenne

Another car on the larger side, the Cayenne, is luxurious in style and aggressive in performance. A V6 engine and the Porsche stamp make the Cayenne an SUV not to be messed with. This vehicle combines performance and comfort, appealing to families needing extra boot space. Styled fairly creatively, the Cayenne stands out from other SUVs. On the inside of the car, you can expect all the necessary gadgets, as well as a comfortable interior that lets you travel in style. The Cayenne is an excellent option for those who love Porsche but have a family to drive around. 

BMW 5 Series 

The 5 Series first hit our roads in 1972 and is now in its seventh generation. A massively popular car, the 5 Series has been a major player in the saloon market for many years. This is set to continue, and any 5 Series in the last ten years is sure to be an excellent car for you. As a used car, you could get a model as recent as 2020. Of all the cars in the list so far, the 5 Series has the most recent model available and a great model at that. A 2020 BMW 5 Series Sport will set you back around £29,000, coming in just below the £30,000 budget. Of course, this is extremely close to your budget, but for the money, the BMW 5 Series 2020 model is excellent value for money. 

Best cars for under £50,000

Jaguar F-Type

The F-Type is a stylish car that provides a fast and enjoyable drive. A 2018 Jaguar F-Type will reach 60mph in 3.9 seconds, with over 500 break horsepower. A fantastic option from a performance point of view, but how does it stack up from an appearance standpoint? A built-in entertainment system, as well as leather seats and numerous gadgets, makes the F-Type an enjoyable car to drive. Race car seats and a slick design give the car a race feel, with the performance to boot. For under £50,000, a used Jaguar F-Type is a brilliant option for drivers.

Tesla Model S

Another electric vehicle, the Model S has been a leader in the electric luxury space for some years now. A sizeable interior and all the tech you could need makes the Model S a comfortable and relatively easy drive. The classic saloon shape welcomes families and has plenty of space for storage, making long distance drives possible. For the price, you will likely be driving an older model of the S, and with that comes a lower range when fully charged. It is important to take this into account, but don’t let it distract from the quality of this car for a relatively good price.

Conclusion

There are various options available depending on your budget. We recommend you search around and find the best car for you. If one of the cars in this list has perked your interest, apply for car finance today!

At Marsh, we provide a quick and easy application form that can see you receive a decision the same day. Apply here today and take a massive step towards driving your new car.