The popularity of the British-built CR-V makes it one of the world’s favourite SUVs. It might not be very flash – apart from the odd strip of chrome trim – however this boxy utility vehicle is smooth riding, boasts quiet 1.6- or 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engines and is as reliable as anything.
The XF is the car that put Jaguar back on the map, taking on the 5 Series and beating it in some key areas. It’s rather characterful for a start, and the XF is more fun to drive thanks to feelsome steering, along with excellent rear-wheel drive balance.
Like a number of cars in our top 50, the Audi A3 benefits from a timeless design, giving it perennial appeal at used car dealerships. Those four rings help too, because despite being a Golf in a posh frock, the A3’s interior is an undeniably cosy place to spend time.
The Peugeot RCZ is one of the best used bargains we can recall. With used prices starting as low as £4,400, that’s incredible for a stunning sports coupé with 161bhp and a double bubble roof that’s the stuff of concept cars.
BMW is no stranger to producing stonkingly great executive cars, and the F10 5-Series is the culmination of all the lessons the German firm has learnt. From its engines and chassis, to interior quality and its iDrive infotainment system, everything feels honed to make the driving experience first rate.
Despite being on sale since 2012, used examples of the cee’d are still covered by the original seven-year warranty, so issues should be few and far between. Designed to appeal to European drivers, Kia’s family hatch and estate certainly looks good and it’s pleasant to drive, too.
The axing of the Yeti means the used market is set to be very popular with fans who’ve fallen for its unique boxy looks, practical interior and surprising handling. We say surprising, because the small SUV could outshine most hatchbacks on a twisty B-road, giving Skoda’s small SUV the ability to surprise and delight in equal measure.
Huge sales of the DS 3 have helped forge the philosophy of the whole DS range, showing that the French brand delivers chic design and personalisation choices. This MINI rival offers extra space for luggage and passengers, but still boasts fun handling, an upmarket interior and a range of frugal engines.
The Golf’s reputation makes it one of the most sought after used cars, and with suitably high residual values. Despite being around since 2012, the Mk7 still looks fresh, a fact aided by the subtle updates in 2017 that require a spot-the-difference comparison.
The popularity of saloon cars might have waned, but the demand for executive models like the 3 Series remains buoyant. For motorists who need space and performance, there’s nothing to replace the allure of a rear-wheel drive BMW with perfect weight distribution.