Thta's why we've created this guide. It's designed to give you the confidence to choose the right one for you. We've broken everything down into four easy-to-read sections to keep things simple and straightforward.
Buying a car is a big decision
That's why we've put this guide together. Keep its advice in mind so you can make your choice with confidence. We've split the guide into four easy to read sections.
Adding it all up
When buying a car, it’s good idea to start with a total budget or a monthly payment figure you're comfortable with. With a range of flexible finance options available, you might find you can afford more than you expected – so it’s worth exploring all the choices. Have a look at our online Build & Price tool and car finance calculators to get a clear picture of what suits your needs and budget. Also, don't forget to factor in monthly running costs like insurance, tax, fuel and servicing.
You might also want to consider trading in your current vehicle so you can use it as a down payment against your new one. Get an idea of how much your current vehicle is worth using our valuation tool.READ MORESHOW LESS
Car insurance can be costly, so get a few quotes in. Generally, the more expensive the vehicle, the higher the premium. Similarly, the lower the security rating and higher the accident-repair cost, the higher the premium.
The road tax you pay each year is based on your car’s CO2 emissions. Cars with levels below 100g/km pay no tax.
Service your car regularly. To estimate the cost, visit our Owners section and note the service intervals recommended for your car. Finally, don't forget tyres. The bigger they are and the lower their profile, the more expensive they are. You're also legally required to ensure your tyre tread is above 1.6mm.
Depreciation
The decrease in your car’s value over time - known as Depreciation - is one of its biggest costs ownership. This happens at different rates depending on the model and the options you’ve chosen, such as the car’s colour and features. While popular models with strong second-hand appeal tend to hold their value better, it’s worth noting that over-customisation or niche features may reduce resale interest.
Cars in high demand with broad appeal usually offer the best trade-in or resale prices, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on what’s currently popular in the market.
Adding it all up
When buying a car, it’s good idea to start with a total budget or a monthly payment figure you're comfortable with. With a range of flexible finance options available, you might find you can afford more than you expected – so it’s worth exploring all the choices. Have a look at our online Build & Price tool and car finance calculators to get a clear picture of what suits your needs and budget. Also, don't forget to factor in monthly running costs like insurance, tax, fuel and servicing.
You might also want to consider trading in your current vehicle so you can use it as a down payment against your new one. Get an idea of how much your current vehicle is worth using our valuation tool.
New or Used? Here's a quick guide to help you decide
Choosing between a new or a used model can be tough. Here we summarise the key benefits of both, to help you make your decision.
Why choose new?
You'll have the latest model with up-to-date technology and style
There are great new car deals on new models
You can add a new vehicle warranty
Choose exactly the vehicle you want, with all the features you need
You’ll know the vehicle's full history.
Used
Used vehicles are generally less expensive to buy
You can get warranty and history checks at your Retailer
They depreciate less than new vehicles.
Insurance, Road Tax and Servicing
Car insurance can be costly, so get a few quotes in. Generally, the more expensive the vehicle, the higher the premium. Similarly, the lower the security rating and higher the accident-repair cost, the higher the premium.
The road tax you pay each year is based on your car’s CO2 emissions. Cars with levels below 100g/km pay no tax.
Service your car regularly. To estimate the cost, visit our Owners section and note the service intervals recommended for your car. Finally, don't forget tyres. The bigger they are and the lower their profile, the more expensive they are. You're also legally required to ensure your tyre tread is above 1.6mm.
Depreciation
The decrease in your car’s value over time - known as Depreciation - is one of its biggest costs ownership. This happens at different rates depending on the model and the options you’ve chosen, such as the car’s colour and features. While popular models with strong second-hand appeal tend to hold their value better, it’s worth noting that over-customisation or niche features may reduce resale interest.
Cars in high demand with broad appeal usually offer the best trade-in or resale prices, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on what’s currently popular in the market.
Adding it all up
When buying a car, it’s good to set out with a total figure or pay-monthly amount that you're prepared to spend. With more attractive finance options available you may be able to afford more than you think so make sure you explore all your options. Have a look at our online Build & Price tool and car finance calculators to get a good idea of what you need and can afford. Remember also to include monthly running costs like insurance, tax, fuel and servicing.
You might also want to consider trading in your current vehicle so you can use it as a down payment against your new one. Get an idea of how much your current vehicle is worth using our valuation tool.
Choosing between a new or a used model can be tough. Here we summarise the key benefits of both, to help you make your decision.
New
You'll have the latest model with up-to-date technology and style
There are great new car deals on new models
You can add a new vehicle warranty
Choose exactly the vehicle you want, with all the features you need
You’ll know the vehicle's full history.
Used
Used vehicles are generally less expensive to buy
You can get warranty and history checks at your Retailer
They depreciate less than new vehicles.
Insurance, Road Tax and Servicing
Car insurance can be costly, so get a few quotes in. Generally, the more expensive the vehicle, the higher the premium. Similarly, the lower the security rating and higher the accident-repair cost, the higher the premium.
The road tax you pay each year is based on your car’s CO2 emissions. Cars with levels below 100g/km pay no tax.
Service your car regularly. To estimate the cost, visit our Owners section and note the service intervals recommended for your car. Finally, don't forget tyres. The bigger they are and the lower their profile, the more expensive they are. You're also legally required to ensure your tyre tread is above 1.6mm.
Depreciation
The decrease in your car’s value over time is one of its biggest costs. This happens at different rates depending on the model and the options you’ve chosen, such as the car’s colour and features. Popular models with strong second-hand appeal tend to command the best trade-in and sale prices, so keep your eye on what's in vogue.
