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In our ultimate buyer's guide to the best large cars & SUVs you will find out which are the best cars available, who to choose the right one for you & more.
01 July 2024
When it comes to large used cars, the UK used car market really does offer you a wide range of options for car buyers seeking a higher build quality in their used vehicle from large cars that still excel as a city car, to those more suited for large families (Kia Niro or Kia Sportage) and sports cars alike.
Consequently, in this guide to some of the best-used cars in the UK used market, we will walk you through the options for some of the larger car sizes that you can buy with many of which have gone through their second-generation to 5th-generation due to people wanting them for their proven track record of reality over the years.
For instance, we will explore some of the best large used cars available, from the latest models to best estate cars and some more of the generations models - with the aim of helping you make an informed decision about which one to get and what options you have available to you for your next purchase.
The used market for large used cars in the UK is very diverse, with models ranging from some of the best large SUVs, luxury saloon cars, family hatchbacks, four-wheel drives (such as a Toyota Rav4), and even hot hatches.
Some of the most popular choices, however, consist of:
A used Audi A4 is a very popular choice for those looking for a comfortable and very stylish ride.
This is in part due to the fact that the A4 is known for its very good-looking design and feature-rich interior quality with a highly responsive infotainment system as well. At the same time, the A4 offers you a range of engines - including petrol, diesel, and hybrid options.
With a spacious interior, up to 37 inches of headroom in the front alone, and high-quality materials throughout, it is perfect for families or business use as it really does offer you enough space as a result.
This is backed up by its sales numbers as in the last five years, the Audi A4 has consistently ranked high in sales, with around 40,000 cars sold annually in the UK, which is in part due to its reliability and high level of performance making it a top choice for used car buyers.
For a used Audi A6, you get a used luxury car that is packed full of performance and features - such as coming with Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto - making it a favourite among large used car buyers especially.
For example, it has a very roomy interior, measuring 4,939 mm - 4,954 mm Long by 1,886 mm Wide and 1,446mm -1,481 mm high. This is combined with cutting-edge tech and a choice of very powerful engines.
With the A6’s fuel consumption being around 34 MPG - 51 MPG combined and low emissions of 165g/km of CO2 are particularly appealing.
Additionally, over the past five years, approximately 25,000 cars have been sold annually in the UK for the A6.
A used BMW 3 Series gives you a more refined used executive car that really does combine both performance and comfort really well together.
Available in various trims and engine options, including efficient diesel and hybrid engines, it really does suit a wide range of preferences.
The 3 Series is also known for its agile handling, even on windy roads, and its luxurious interior features.
With around 35,000 units sold annually in the UK over the past five years, it really does remain a top choice for those seeking a premium used car.
Next up is a used BMW 5 Series, which is a primarily used executive car that offers you a great combination of luxury, tech, features, space and performance all rolled into one.
For instance, it offers a very spacious cabin with up to 41.4 inches of legroom and luxury front seats, along with some of the latest advanced driver assistance systems, all complimented by a range of very powerful engines.
Over the past five years, the 5 Series has seen annual sales of about 20,000 cars in the UK. Its excellent ride and reliability make it a preferred choice for people looking for a car suitable for long-distance driving.
A used Ford Focus is up next as it brings you a very adaptable car that is very practical, budget-friendly, and affordable for people looking for reliable cars, which is also known for its engaging driving experience and modern design as well.
It offers a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines, making it economical to run. Its petrol engines get you between 42.8 MPG and 56.5 MPG, and its diesel engines get you around 44.1 MPG - 67.3 MPG.
With around 60,000 cars sold annually in the UK over the past five years, the Focus remains one of the best-selling cars in its class.
This is in part due to its spacious interior, features for its price point, and user-friendly tech, which make it a favourite among used car buyers who are especially looking for a reliable and affordable used car.
A used Ford Mondeo then brings you a large family car that combines comfort, space, features and reliability in a tremendously large used car.
Known for its smooth ride and efficient engines, it is also a convenient choice for long journeys and daily commutes.
Over the past five years, the Mondeo has sold approximately 15,000 cars annually in the UK.
With its big boot space of 383 litres to 403 Litres with the rear passenger seats up, along with comfortable seating, it really does make it ideal for families and executives as well.
The Mondeo’s reputation for reliability and low running costs also help here as well.
A luxury used Jaguar XE comes in next, as it gets you a very stylish and sporty executive car that offers you a great driving experience on the whole.
With a range of powerful and efficient engines for a car of its class - around 36 MPG combined - and a choice between petrol and diesel options, it really does cater to various driving needs.
The XE’s agile handling and high-quality interior make it a standout choice. Over the past five years, it has sold around 10,000 cars annually in the UK. This is in part thanks to its features and impressive design, which help ensure it remains a popular option among used car buyers who want a touch of luxury as well.
A used Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a huge executive car that really does give you a great option if you are looking for a large car that comes packed full of luxury, technology, and performance especially.
Known for its spacious and high-quality interior, the E-Class offers a range of powerful and efficient engines, including 2.0-litre petrol, 4-cylinder and 3-litre 6-cylinder engines.
Its advanced driver assistance systems are available in some models, and its comfortable ride makes it ideal for long-distance travel.
Furthermore, the E-Class’ reputation for reliability and refinement also helps to ensure that it is continually a wanted and popular choice for used car buyers.
Over the past five years, approximately 20,000 cars have been sold annually in the UK.
A used Peugeot 3008 gets you a very modern and good-looking compact SUV, which is especially known for its distinctive design and features.
It offers you a very comfortable ride quality and a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines with up to 54.1 MPG.
The 3008 also features a high-quality interior space with a more futuristic dashboard and plenty of space for both your passengers and luggage, with 520 litres of boot space with the rear seats up and 1,480 litres with the rear seat area down. Alongside this, it also comes packed full of features, from a built-in Sat Nav to reversing cameras and sensors, which make getting into parking spaces really easy.
Over the past five years, it has also become increasingly popular, with around 25,000 cars sold annually in the UK, in part due to its practicality, modern features, and strong safety ratings, all leading you to be able to get an attractive second-hand SUV.
For those who have a higher budget available, used large luxury cars are also an option, as they can offer you a great combination of high-end features, advanced tech, and a high level of comfort features, all finished off with superior performance as well.
In this regard, you should consider more of the following:
These cars provide you with a more high-end driving experience, making them an attractive option for those looking to enjoy luxury at a reduced cost compared to buying them new.
Furthermore, luxury large used cars also come equipped with premium interiors, cutting-edge features, and more powerful engines as well.
If you are instead more interested in used hybrid cars and some of the best electric cars that you can own pre-owned, these can combine a petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor to a fully electric motor - offering you a lot better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than a traditional ICE engine alone, with the full electric models capable of getting you a long battery range as well.
Here you want to look for popular hybrid models such as a used Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V which can come with all-wheel drives systems as well, or even a used Hyundai Kona, or a used Nissan Leaf for instance.
In the used car market, hybrids are increasingly becoming a more popular choice due to their extended range of benefits and cost savings on fuel. Consequently, as a buyer, you can find reliable options with lots of safety features available to choose from.
This has been seen over the past five years; hybrid car sales in the UK have steadily increased as a result, as they make even more sense as a used buy due to the range these cars can give you over traditional ICE engines.
For those on a budget, used models like the Nissan Qashqai Skoda Octavia, Ford Mondeo, or even a Vauxhall Insignia can also provide you with great value as well.
This is because these cars are known for their affordability, reliability, and low running costs, making them ideal for more budget-conscious buyers who want a large used car as well.
When it comes to the best family cars, large used cars and family SUVs also have a number of options which can range from a used Ford S-Max, used Volvo XC40, used Volvo XC60, used Volvo XC90, Toyota Hilux, Skoda Kodiaq and Honda HR-V all being top contenders to allow you and your family to get the most from family life.
This is because these vehicles all offer plenty of space, advanced technology, and strong reliability ratings, which in turn ensures peace of mind for you and your family.
Large used family cars also offer a high level of safety, such as multiple airbags, ABS, stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), along with many space and comfort features.
For business use, used models such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW Series, and a used Audi are more well suited.
This is in part thanks to these cars offering you a professional image, comfort, and reliability, making them perfect for business professionals especially, in part thanks to the features such as more advanced navigation systems, comfortable seating, and ample storage space.
As well Connectivity options like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are also beneficial for professionals on the go.
Local car dealerships such as here at easypeasy are some of the best places to buy a used large car, over private sellers, as we can offer you finance options, as we are also regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) - so you can get the best used large car spread over monthly payments - to a selection of warranties. So if something does go wrong, you know you will be covered and are here to help you.
Car finance options are available for financing used cars, including Personal loans, Hire Purchase (HP), and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP).
Each has its advantages, and we can help you find the best deal for your circumstances, resulting in the best monthly payments for your budget.
For direct benefits, buying a large used car offers many benefits, such as cost savings, a wide selection of models, and better value compared to new cars, which can depreciate very quickly once you drive them off the dealership floor.
When we buy a car, we don't just put it on for sale. We take it through our own inspection process and rectify issues that arise before we do.
So when you come to inspect the car yourself, you can ensure you are getting a reliable, thoroughly tested used car. We will also show you and talk you through the car's service history, and it will be checked over by our own trusted mechanics.
We also encourage you to test drive a large used car for yourself to get a feel for how it drives.
Luxury used cars can offer significant savings while providing you with a lot of high-end features and performance, which in turn make them a worthwhile investment for many buyers.
For instance, certain models are known to be sought after for years, such as Audis, BMWs, and Mercedes. The more sought-after and reliable a car brand is, the more it tends to hold its value over time.
For large and best used family cars, you want to look for features such as plenty of space, advanced safety features, and comfort, while models like the Volvo XC60 and Honda HR-V make excellent choices for families.
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Here at easypeasy, we are a UK-based automotive company that simplifies car buying, selling, and car servicing all while trying to get you the best car deal on your next used car.
Located in Norwich and Diss, we can offer you a wide selection of quality used cars from top manufacturers, while also providing you with a seamless online and in-person purchasing experience, including finance options and part exchanges as well.
We can also offer you comprehensive aftersales services, including MOTs, warranties, repairs, and service plans as well.
We are known for our exceptional customer service and are proud of it. We ensure that every car we sell comes with a warranty, a thorough inspection, and additional benefits like breakdown assistance.
As you can see, choosing the right large used car in the UK, and the best car for you, involves considering various factors such as budget, reliability, and personal needs, to name only a few.
Whether you're looking for luxury, affordability, or reliability, the UK market of used cars really does offer you a wide range of options to suit your preferences and budget.
As a result, this guide has gone a long way in making you aware of your options by helping you understand the critical aspects of each category and how to follow a structured buying process. if you are still not sure, please give our customer service team a call. We will be happy to help you.
