Best used cars for £30k 2025
Take a look at the best used cars for £30k you should consider buying
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By Ben Welham
Last updated: 6 August 2025
Thirty thousand sounds like a lot, no matter how you’re measuring it.
And a budget of £30,000 for a used car is very healthy, presenting you with many different options and body styles.
Sure, you could go out and buy a brand-new car, but then you risk dealing with depreciation, whereas if you buy a used car, you can save thousands. No, seriously.
This is why we've listed the best used cars you can buy for £30,000 or less.
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Best used cars for £30k:
BMW 5 Series
Volvo EX30
Mercedes E-Class
Audi A5
Range Rover Evoque
Volkswagen Golf
Ford Kuga
BMW 5 Series
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The BMW 5 Series can be had in either saloon or estate form, and thanks to its reliable German engineering, this car won’t let you down.
Every model is packed full of great onboard tech, with upgraded models coming with a large 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s also available with some cracking optional extras such as a sound system that will blow your socks off.
Engine choices for this used BMW include petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options, with all of them offering effortless performance and comfort.
Craig Hale, our motoring writer, said: "True to style, the BMW 5 Series remains the gold standard in executive cars – it’s the car that many other designers look at when creating their own saloons.
"We love how effortless the 5 Series is in all aspects – power delivery, refinement, its infotainment system, fuel efficiency, etc."
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Volvo EX30
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The Volvo EX30 is a compact electric SUV fresh from Sweden – the home of classy minimalism.
Every version of the EX30 comes well-equipped, with a crisp 12.3-inch central touchscreen with Google software, along with Apple CarPlay to keep you connected on the go. There’s also an optional premium Harman/Kardon sound system that delivers seriously impressive audio.
As a fully electric model, the EX30 is available with different battery and motor setups, including single- and twin-motor versions. Whether you’re after maximum range (up to 295 miles) or all-wheel-drive performance, the EX30 delivers smooth, quiet driving with typical Volvo refinement.
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Mercedes E-Class
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The Mercedes E-Class is one of the most diverse cars in the Mercedes model range because it comes as either a convertible, saloon or estate.
On top of that, it also comes in a variety of engine options, including petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants with newer models.
But above all else, it’s a Mercedes, so it’s classy, comfortable and warrants respect because of its status.
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Audi A5
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If you want a luxurious car for your daily drive but don’t want any compromises, then we would recommend checking out the Audi A5, which is available as a hatchback, coupé or convertible.
There are lots of different engine options for this used Audi, but the 2.0-litre petrol unit is superb if you want a smooth drive and decent power.
There are also diesel options on offer if you tend to do longer motorway journeys.
The interior is superb too, offering a large cabin with incredible comfort and a solid infotainment system.
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Range Rover Evoque
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To think you can get a luxury SUV like a Range Rover Evoque for less than £30,000 is insane, but true.
With its distinctive design and premium interior, it’s a great choice for those who want something practical, yet upmarket.
Inside, the Evoque is packed with high-end tech, including an 11.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims come with features like a digital driver display, ambient lighting, and an optional Meridian sound system that offers crystal-clear audio.
Engine options include petrol, diesel and mild-hybrid variants, all tuned for a smooth and refined drive.
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Volkswagen Golf
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We’re not the only fans of the Volkswagen Golf, because there are a staggering 35 million (and counting) models out there, so it’s safe to say they’re very popular.
It comes in more flavours than Ben and Jerry’s and suits almost anyone’s needs. From the basic Life trim level to the GTI and ‘R’ models, these are hugely impressive cars with great appeal.
With a budget of £30k, you will be able to buy almost any used VW Golf you could think of, making the options truly endless.
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Ford Kuga
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If the thought of owning a large SUV scares you, then you may be better off looking at a mid-sized one such as the Ford Kuga.
You can think of this as a Focus on stilts with a larger boot and roomier cabin.
There is a range of engines on offer, including petrol, diesel and hybrid options, so there’s definitely something to suit your lifestyle.
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What to look for when buying a used car under £30k
Buying a used car under £30k can be a big task - that's quite a lot of money to spend. Buying from a reputable source will mean that you'll have less to stress about, because choosing a private seller can be riskier.
All of our cars are thoroughly checked over before they're uploaded to our site and sold, so you know you're getting an MOT-passable car in great condition.
You might also want to get an HPI check on a used car before you purchase it if you're not sure about the vehicle's history or are purchasing from a private seller. These can spot things like outstanding car finance or if the car is stolen.
Other things to look out for when buying a used car include the Euro NCAP safety rating, the age of the car and the mileage.
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Discover used cars for £30,000 and less
As you can see, there are some fantastic cars you should consider for £30,000 and under, and we have plenty to choose from.
Whether you're after a hatchback or an SUV, check out our used cars up to £30,000 for some cracking deals.