Best used cars 2024: Volvo, Honda Jazz and Tesla most popular UK second-hand cars

We reveal the top used cars for all types of drivers in the UK right now.

When it’s time to get a new motor, most of us head for a used car.

After all, buying a brand new model comes at a hefty premium, putting them beyond the budgets of many of us.

But with so many options out there, it’s not easy to pick out which used car to go for.

That’s where the awards from WhatCar? can help.

Every year, the team’s experts highlight the most appealing option in a range of categories.

As this year’s overall winner, the judges chose Volvo’s XC40, praising its reliability, comfort and finish.

But what about the other categories?

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Used hatchback

The top used hatchback around right now remains the Honda Jazz, according to WhatCar? and specifically, the 1.5 i-MMD Hybrid SR.

With prices from £11,500, WhatCar? notes: “The Jazz’s 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor produce a relatively modest 96 bhp in total, but that’s still enough to get you to motorway speeds faster than an equivalent Yaris or Polo could manage.”

Used executive

The Tesla Model 3 landed this award, and in particular, the Long Range series.

WhatCar? described: “It’s not like your executive colleagues will think you’re slumming it by choosing the Tesla, either.

"Not only does the Model 3’s minimalist interior look thoroughly futuristic, but it also works well.”

With prices falling recently, you should be able to pick one up from approximately £15,000. 

Used SUV

The best used SUV around won’t break the bank, with a Volvo XC40 typically costing you around £16,000.

Overall, the experts recommend the T3 R-Design.

As the researchers point out, the original Nissan Qashqai prompted a long line of imitators, although there was a lack of family-friendly SUVs, until the launch of the Volvo XC40 in 2018.

Post-2020 models cut diesels and added mild hybrid and plug-in hybrids.

Used estate car

If you’re hunting for a used estate car, then you may not do much better than the Skoda Octavia Estate, according to the WhatCar? team. 

With prices from £3,500, the experts particularly recommended the 1.5 TSI 150 SE.

As the researchers point out, the model’s capacity is similar to larger models, including used Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estates.

The rear seats also split and fold out for additional space.

Used electric SUV

The big winner here is the Kia e-Niro.

With prices starting from £12,000, the experts name the 64kWh 3 as their top pick.

As one of the first affordable SUVs, it is praised for its comfort, practicality and capability for covering long distances.

Although there are two battery types, WhatCar? favours the larger 64kWH option as it delivers a longer yield than most of its direct rivals.

Used hybrid car

The best used hybrid car, according to the WhatCar? awards is the BMW 330e.

The researchers found: “If we were to pretend that executive cars were a group of friends on a night out, we reckon the BMW 3 Series would be first in the karaoke queue. As sophisticated saloons go, it’s never been afraid to let its hair down.”

You can expect to pay upwards of £17,000.

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Used seven-seater

The winner in this category was the Peugeot 5008.

According to WhatCar?, “the model only gains appeal as it ages. But while vintage vino goes up in price, every passing year makes the 5008 look even better value."

You can now buy an early example with an average mileage for just £12,000, and that’s a vast amount of car for your money.

Used sports car

Here, the team choose the Audi TT and particularly, the 2.0 TFSI Sport, which has prices from £11,500.

Although the researchers claim the original version struggled to provide a sharp driving experience, they believe this iteration has overcome previous problems.

They say: “You certainly won’t be spoiled for choice when it comes to engines, with a range of petrols and diesels available, along with front-wheel drive and four-wheel-drive quattro options.”

Get a better deal on your next car

Buying a car can be a daunting experience, particularly if you aren’t much of a petrolhead.

But there are some simple steps you can follow which ensure you’ll get a better deal, no matter whether you’re buying a new model or a second-hand car.

Check out our guide to buying a car and getting a good deal on your next motor.