A knock-on effect of the Covid-19 pandemic meant that many faced significant waiting times for a new car, which drove up the price of used vehicles significantly.
It meant that the once-typical nearly-new bargains largely disappeared. However, as car production improves and waiting times return to more typical levels, there are an increasing number of deals to be had on one- or two-year-old used cars. Let’s take a look at some of the best nearly-new bargains available today.
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Suzuki Swace
Toyotas are by and large some of the slowest depreciating cars around, owing to their great reputation for reliability as well as impressive hybrid technology. But if you want a great deal on a nearly-new Toyota, it’s worth looking at the Suzuki Swace, as this is in fact just a rebadged version of Toyota’s Corolla Touring Sports.
With only a few small styling changes separating the two models, you still get Toyota’s fantastic hybrid system, generous equipment and spaciousness by this Suzuki. However, because the Swace is lesser-known, a like-for-like version works out about £1,500 cheaper than the Corolla. You can pick up a two-year-old model for around £18,500 – a welcome saving compared to the £29,000 price for a new model.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Audi A8
Some of the best savings to be had on nearly-new cars concern those that cost the most to begin with, and that largely means luxury cars. A particularly great example is Audi’s high-tech A8. While a brand-new version of this flagship saloon costs £78,000, you can pick up a two-year-old example for around £40,000.
Granted, that’s still a lot of money, but it’s a vast saving and gets you a lot of car for your money as the A8 offers a stunning, high-quality interior and an especially comfortable ride that’s ideal for longer journeys and commutes.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
The price of many used electric cars has plummeted recently, but if you’re considering making the switch to an EV, there are some tremendously good deals to be had on nearly-new examples. One of the best deals to be had is with Vauxhall’s Corsa Electric, which has suffered from significant depreciation.
While there’s a massive difference in price between the new prices of a petrol Corsa and an electric one – the latter starts from a steep £34,080 – a two-year Corsa EV can be picked up for just £13,500. That’s almost the same as what a petrol version would cost you. With a good driving experience and a claimed range of more than 200 miles, it’s a very credible choice if you’re looking for a compact electric car.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Fiat 500
With the cheapest new car (a Kia Picanto) now costing from £13,655, we’re a long way from the days when you could pick up a new car for under £10,000. But if you’re happy with something used, you can pick up a nearly-new Fiat 500 for around this marker,, which represents a sizable reduction on the £16,790 that a new 500 costs these days.
Though this Fiat might be getting on a bit in terms of age, it’s still one of the most stylish cars on the road, while its efficient mild-hybrid petrol engines results in some very low running costs.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Nissan Leaf
The electric car segment has moved on significantly in recent years, and compared to some newer EVs, Nissan’s Leaf might seem a little bit behind the times. But if you’re not fussed about style, there’s still going for this hatchback, not least its low price. It’s another EV that is an absolute steal on the used market, with a two-year-old Leaf available from around £14,000 – less than half of what a new model would set you back.
Despite the Leaf’s age, it remains a practical and comfortable electric car that is generously equipped. A range of up to 239 miles is offered, though the smaller battery models are capped at 168 miles.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Kia Ceed SW
Estate cars have fallen out of favour with new car buyers in recent years, with sales falling as a result. But if you’re in the market for a nearly-new wagon, there are some stunning deals to be had. One of the best is the KIA Ceed SW. Even new examples are pretty good value at £23,265, but you can save almost £10,000 off that by choosing a two-year-old model.
Though the Ceed SW isn’t the most exciting car on the market, it’s a great all-rounder with a well-built interior and acres of cabin space making it a great family car choice. Plus, you will also have the remainder of KIA's seven-year warranty.
Take a look at what we have available here.
Jaguar I-Pace
While Jaguar might be getting ready to introduce a whole new generation of electric cars, for the time being, there’s still plenty going for the firm’s only existing EV – the I-Pace. This premium SUV boasts an upmarket interior and stunning exterior that has hardly aged since its initial introduction in 2018.
Though not as quick to charge as some other new electric rivals, the I-Pace’s claimed range of 292 miles should still prove plenty for most. You can also pick up a two-year-old model for around £33,000 – cheaper than almost any electric crossover on the market, and a vast saving on the £70,000 you’d pay for a new example.
Take a look at what we have available here.
