Used cars for sale under £20,000
If you have a budget of ?20,000 you might be tempted to purchase brand new. However, there are plenty of used car options for ?20,000 on the second-hand market giving you more value for money. Whether you're searching for a spacious family car or simply seeking a reliable car at an affordable price, we have a great selection of hatchbacks, SUVs, saloons, coupes and estates that won't break the bank.
With a budget of ?20,000, you'll find an array of reliable, used petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric cars from trusted dealers across the UK with MOTORS.
Mercedes-Benz, B Class
2015 - B180 1.5 CDI BLUEEFFICIENCY SPORT AUTOMATIC £35 TAX 5-Door
Subaru, Impreza
2005 - 2.0 WRX AWD JDM 4DR HAWK EYE
Toyota, Aygo X
2022 (72) - 1.0 VVT-i Pure Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (72 ps)
MG, MG ZS
2024 - 1.5 Hybrid+ SE 5dr Auto
Volkswagen, up!
2014 (14) - 1.0 Move Up 3dr
Ford, Kuga
2014 - 2.0 TDCi Titanium X 5dr 2WD
Peugeot, 308
2024 - 1.2 PureTech Allure 5dr EAT8
Citroen, C3
2025 - 1.2 Turbo PLUS Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (100 ps)
Alfa Romeo, MiTo
2009 - 1.4 16V Turismo 3dr
Volkswagen, Golf
2021 - Life TDI 5-Door
MINI, Convertible
2013 (13) - 1.6 Cooper Euro 6 (s/s) 2dr
Volkswagen, Polo
2014 - 1.4 TDI SE 5dr
Mazda, Mazda3
2023 - 2.0 E-Skyactiv G Mhev Sport Lux 5Dr
Ford, Focus
2017 - 1.5 TDCi ST-Line 5-Door
Volkswagen, Golf
2020 - 1.5 TSI EVO 150 Match Edition 5dr DSG
- 1.5L
- 38.7kMiles
- Petrol
- Auto
- Estate
Arnold Clark Edinburgh Sighthill Motorstore/Fiat/Abarth/Leap
Ford, Puma
2023 - 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid mHEV ST-Line X 5dr DCT
Before buying any car, there are some checks you should do to ensure the vehicle you are looking to purchase is safe and matches what is being advertised by the dealer.
Conduct some visual checks
Conducting visual checks is the first step you should take before purchasing a used car. This includes inspecting things like the paint and bodywork, checking the tyres and also examining the windscreen, windows and lights to ensure there isn't any damage and everything is in correct working order.
Also, don't be afraid to lift the bonnet and check the engine to ensure the internal components appear as they should.
Test drive the vehicle
Taking the car for a test drive will give you the opportunity to check that the vehicle is working as it should. As you drive the car, listen for any unusual noises whilst testing the clutch, brakes and acceleration. This is also a good opportunity to test additional features such as the heating, air conditioning, radio and infotainment system if the car has this.
Ask to see the car's documents
When you are viewing the vehicle, it is also a good idea to check the car's documents in person. This includes things such as the V5C document, MOT certificates, service history and the vehicle handbook. Inspecting these documents will highlight any issues the car has had and whether they have been rectified.
For further advice and guidance on things to consider before buying a used car, check out our used car buying checklist.
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What car can you buy for £20,000?
With a budget of £20,000, you will be able to purchase a used quality car within this range. This includes both petrol and diesel models as well as a range of high-quality electric models. Popular models within this price range include the Audi TT, BMW 1 Series, Mercedes C-Class, Kia Niro, Jaguar XE and Mazda MX-5.
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Can you buy an electric car for under £20,000?
In the second-hand market, you will find a hugely diverse and appealing set of used EVs for under £20,000. Notable EV models within this price range include the Citroen e-C4, Fiat 500 Electric, Hyundai Ioniq, Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe, and the Vauxhall Mokka X.
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What checks should I do before buying a car?
Before buying any used car you should thoroughly inspect the vehicle using a used car buying checklist. Inspecting components such as tyres, engines, brakes and exhausts, will help you to understand the current condition of the car and if it requires any inspections or work by a professional garage. It is also a good idea to test-drive the vehicle before purchasing it so you can be confident it works as expected. This also allows you to ask any questions and raise any concerns you may have.