Shopping for a used car on a £15,000 budget? You’re not alone. According to research conducted right here at CarGurus, the majority of British drivers are looking to spend £15k on their next used car, with hatchbacks and SUVs at the top of their shopping lists.
We surveyed 1,000 UK drivers to find out their priorities when it comes to seeking the perfect set of wheels, tapping into their mindset on aspects such as price, body-style, age, mileage and features. And the results were surprising.
While SUVs of varying sizes have largely taken over the UK’s roads, and the new car sales charts, it was the evergreen hatchback that topped our survey results, with 40% of respondents seeking this practical body-style. In second place, with 37% was the medium-sized SUV, showing that pragmatism is a strong driver of purchases. When it comes to the most desirable marques, premium German brands such as BMW and Volkswagen scored highly, but it was actually Ford that took the top spot, finding favour with 13% of drivers.
Sift through the CarGurus listings with a £15,000 budget and you’ll see the choice is staggering. Whether you're ready to make the leap to electric with a futuristic family car, need the do-it-all practicality of a compact SUV, or fancy the premium badge of a German hatchback, there’s something for everyone. So for this guide we’ve done much of the legwork for you, pulling out the cream of the crop, from fun-to-drive Fords to sophisticated Volkswagens. Here are the best used cars you can buy right now for under £15,000.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
The Best Used Cars Under £15,000
- Ford Puma
- Volkswagen ID.3
- Volkswagen T-Cross
- Volkswagen Polo
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Ford Fiesta
- Ford Focus
- BMW 1 Series
- Volkswagen Golf
- Volkswagen Taigo
1. 2019-present Ford Puma
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 3.9 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very practical, especially the big boot | Rear headroom could be more generous |
| Generous standard equipment | Short new-car warranty |
| Petrol and electric options | Other electric SUVs have longer ranges |
The Ford Puma has been a runaway success since its launch, and for good reason. It’s one of the UK’s best-selling cars, meaning there’s a fantastic selection available on the used market for under £15,000. Based on the much-loved Fiesta, it shares that car's fun-to-drive character but packages it in a more practical and stylish compact SUV body. Its standout feature is the boot; not only is the main 456-litre space generous for this class, but underneath the floor lies the ingenious 80-litre ‘MegaBox’. This waterproof, drainable compartment is perfect for stashing muddy boots or wet gear, making the Puma one of the most versatile and family-friendly options you can buy.
Most used Pumas are powered by Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost mild-hybrid petrol engine, available with either 123bhp or a punchier 153bhp. Both versions offer a great blend of lively performance and low running costs, with fuel economy of around 50mpg achievable. You don’t need to hunt for a top-spec model to get a good level of kit, either. The entry-level Titanium trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, a touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, and Ford’s brilliant heated windscreen. This combination of practicality, driving fun, and generous standard equipment makes the Puma an outstanding used buy.
The CarGurus Verdict: "In a class that’s full of unimaginative crossovers, the Puma really is a breath of fresh air, being fun to drive yet still practical thanks to the enormous boot space." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Ford Puma review
2. 2020-present Volkswagen ID.3
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Futuristic looks meet family-friendly space | Not as energy-efficient as some rivals |
| Good range of battery and engine options | Not quite as premium-feeling as you'd hope |
| Well equipped | Infotainment system glitchy and flawed |
The Volkswagen ID.3 was VW's first purpose-built electric car, essentially an electric alternative to the hugely popular Golf. Now available on the used market for under £15,000, it represents a futuristic and practical choice for families looking to switch to electric power. Its bespoke electric platform allows for a surprisingly spacious cabin, with more rear legroom than a Golf, and a decent 385-litre boot that's on par with conventional family hatchbacks. Used buyers will find a choice of battery sizes, affecting both price and range, but all versions offer a sleek design and a high-tech feel that makes it stand out from the crowd.
On the road, the ID.3 is calm, quiet, and easy to drive. The standard 201bhp motor provides brisk, instant acceleration that makes it feel nippy around town, while its refinement and smooth ride quality ensure it’s a relaxing motorway cruiser. If you’re planning on frequent longer drives, try and find one with the larger 77kWh battery, with up to 347 miles range, but for most town and city-dwellers, the standard 45kWh unit, offering a 205-mile range, should suffice. The biggest appeal for a used car buyer, however, is the potential for very low running costs for those who can charge at home on a cheap overnight tariff.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Volkswagen ID.3 is a well-rounded family car. It’s comfortable, spacious and feels well built, even if there are some cheaper-feeling plastics lower down in the cabin." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Volkswagen ID.3 review
3. 2019-present Volkswagen T-Cross
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to drive | Many rival compact crossovers are cheaper to buy |
| Funky SUV styling | VW's new-car warranty is no match for Kia or Hyundai |
| Practical cabin | Disappointing interior quality on early examples |
The Volkswagen T-Cross has proven a popular choice in the crowded small SUV market, and for good reason. It’s a cannier purchase than its slightly larger T-Roc sibling, thanks to a clever sliding rear bench seat. This allows you to expand the boot from a very usable 385 litres to a massive 455 litres, offering brilliant flexibility for a car of this size. While the interior plastics on pre-2024 models can feel a bit cheap, the T-Cross’s blend of funky SUV styling and genuine practicality makes it a smart used buy for under £15,000.
On the road, the T-Cross is easy and comfortable to drive. The engine range is straightforward, and our pick is the mid-range 1.0-litre TSI petrol, which comes with either 108bhp or 113bhp. It provides a great balance of perky performance and low running costs, capable of returning around 50mpg. With plenty of equipment on most models and that versatile cabin, the T-Cross is a superb all-rounder that does almost everything a small family needs without breaking the bank.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Volkswagen T-Cross is one of the better cars in the small SUV class. It looks smart, it’s good to drive, it’s well equipped, and has a really flexible and versatile cabin." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen T-Cross review
4. 2018-present Volkswagen Polo
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High quality interior | Not a cheap option |
| Impressive practicality | A Ford Fiesta is more fun |
| Sophisticated driving experience | GTI version isn’t very exciting to drive |
The Volkswagen Polo has long been the supermini benchmark for those wanting a premium feel without the associated price tag, and it makes for a fantastic used buy. For a budget of under £15,000, you get a car that feels a class above many rivals, thanks to its high-quality cabin materials and solid construction. It’s also exceptionally practical, with enough room for four adults to sit comfortably and a huge 351-litre boot that’s one of the biggest in its class. It’s this blend of upmarket feel and real-world usability that makes the Polo such a compelling choice.
It’s not just the interior that feels sophisticated; the driving experience is impressively civilised, too. The Polo delivers a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride that makes light work of battered British roads and long motorway journeys. While a Ford Fiesta might offer more excitement in the corners, the Polo is secure, easy to drive and refined. The punchy and efficient 1.0-litre TSI petrol engines are the pick of the range, offering a great balance of performance and low running costs, with many versions capable of more than 50mpg. It’s a superb all-rounder that feels worth every penny.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Previous Polos have always been something of a benchmark in the supermini class, and this sixth-generation car is no different. There’s not a single area in which the standard car struggles, and in several of them, it sets the standard outright." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen Polo review
5. 2021-present Volkswagen ID.4
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good battery range | Frustrating infotainment and controls |
| Roomy interior | Expensive to buy |
| Comfortable to drive | A Tesla Model Y is more fun to drive |
As an electric alternative to the hugely popular Volkswagen Tiguan, the ID.4 makes a fantastic used buy for families seeking space and low running costs. Its practicality is a major highlight, with a huge 543-litre boot that can handle buggies and luggage with room to spare, plus storage for charging cables under the floor. Rear passenger space is exceptional, offering limo-like legroom and a completely flat floor that makes seating three far more comfortable than in many rivals. The cabin feels classy and well-built, giving it a premium feel that holds up well on the used market.
The ID.4 is built for comfort, delivering a serene and quiet driving experience that makes light work of both city streets and motorway cruises. The standard 77kWh battery and 201bhp motor provide smooth, effortless performance. While real-world range will vary, expect around 230 miles in mixed driving, which is plenty for most daily needs. The biggest saving comes from running costs; charging at home on a cheap overnight tariff can cost a fraction of fuelling a comparable petrol or diesel SUV, making the ID.4 a savvy choice for budget-conscious drivers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The VW ID.4 is a seriously appealing family SUV. It’s composed and unflappable to drive, easy to wield around town despite its size, yet stable and relaxing at motorway speeds, while the spacious and high-tech interior is practical and classy." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Volkswagen ID.4 review
6. 2018-2023 Ford Fiesta
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | Very patchy reliability record |
| Affordable running costs | Not as roomy inside as some rivals |
| Impressive Ecoboost engines | ST-Line models have a stiffer ride than the rest of the range |
The Ford Fiesta was a UK best-selling new car for years, and for good reason. It’s brilliant fun to drive, with nimble handling that makes even a trip to the shops feel engaging. The turbocharged 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engines are a real highlight, offering a punchy performance and impressive fuel economy of over 50mpg, keeping running costs low. Because it was so popular when new, the used market is flooded with examples, meaning buyers have a fantastic choice of engines and trim levels to suit their budget. From the economical Trend to the sporty-looking ST-Line, there’s a Fiesta for everyone.
While some rivals like the Renault Clio offer a larger boot, the Fiesta’s 292-litre space is still perfectly usable for a supermini, and the five-door model offers easy access to the rear seats. Inside, the cabin is well laid out, and post-2018 Zetec (later Trend) models come with Ford’s excellent SYNC 3 infotainment system, complete with a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. High demand means the Fiesta holds its value well, but its sheer availability ensures that finding a great example for under £15,000 is straightforward.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Fiesta fully deserves its reputation as one of the best superminis you can buy. It’s affordable to run, too, and it’s hands-down the best car of its type to drive, even compared to rivals that are still sold brand new." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Ford Fiesta review
7. 2019-2025 Ford Focus
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable to drive | Some rivals have bigger boots |
| Ample room for tall passengers | Ford's new car warranty is short compared with those offered by Hyundai and Kia |
| Excellent Ecoboost petrol engines | Entry-level cars with torsion beam suspension aren't as good to drive |
Brits have loved the Ford Focus since it first came out in 1998, and this fourth-generation model is no exception, representing a superb used buy. It finally addressed the interior space issues of its predecessors, offering ample room for tall passengers in the back, making it a genuinely practical family hatchback. The boot is a useful 375 litres, but for maximum practicality, the estate version expands this to a cavernous 575 litres.
What has always set the Focus apart is how it drives, and this version retains that sparkle. It delivers a fantastic combination of ride comfort and sharp, engaging handling that makes even a trip to the shops feel enjoyable. For a used car budget under £15,000, it offers a driving experience that rivals more premium alternatives. All models are well-equipped for the money, too.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Ford Focus offers a good range of commendable petrol and diesel engines, and in terms of safety and road holding, it is right up there with the very best, if not one step ahead." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Ford Focus review
8. 2020-2024 BMW 1 Series
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Latest model offers more interior space than its predecessor | Firm ride, especially if you choose an M Sport |
| Cabin is made from high-quality materials | BMW purists may be put off by the front-wheel-drive chassis |
| Engaging to drive | Not as practical as a Honda Civic or VW Golf |
The third-generation BMW 1 Series marked a significant shift, moving from rear-wheel to front-wheel drive. While this might disappoint some purists, for daily use it’s a huge plus, unlocking much-needed interior space and practicality. The result is a premium family hatchback that can genuinely compete with the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class on passenger space, while offering a high-quality, driver-focused cabin that feels a cut above mainstream rivals. The boot grew to a useful 380 litres, and with plenty of examples now available for under £15,000, it represents a fantastic way to get a premium badge and a top-tier interior for a sensible price.
Crucially, the switch to front-wheel drive didn’t ruin the driving experience. The 1 Series remains one of the most engaging and enjoyable hatchbacks to drive, with sharp steering and a composed, planted feel on the road. For buyers on a budget, the pick of the engine range is the 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol, badged 118i. It’s responsive enough for town driving and has enough guts for the motorway, all while returning a very respectable 40-45mpg. It offers the ideal blend of performance, refinement, and affordable running costs, making it a smart choice for anyone looking for a premium used car that won’t break the bank.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The 1 Series never was the most practical family car, and the switch to front-wheel drive didn't change that, but it did bring the car into much closer contention with its rivals on that score. Importantly, though, BMW managed to retain the driving enjoyment that's always marked the 1 Series out." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full BMW 1 Series review
9. 2020-present Volkswagen Golf
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Desirable image | Fiddly infotainment system |
| Great to drive | Rivals offer more interior space |
| Comfortable ride | Not significantly better than a Mk7 Golf |
The Volkswagen Golf has long been the smart choice for a high-quality, do-it-all family hatchback, and this eighth-generation model is an excellent used buy. It combines a comfortable ride with crisp, enjoyable handling, making it feel just as at home on a twisty B-road as it does on the motorway. For a budget of £15,000, the pick of the engine range is the 1.5-litre petrol with 148bhp, which offers a fantastic blend of punchy performance and impressive fuel economy, capable of returning over 50mpg. Practicality is strong, too, with a 381-litre boot in the hatchback that’s plenty for trips to the supermarket or a weekend away, though be aware the plug-in hybrid GTE model has a much smaller boot.
Inside, the Mk8 Golf feels modern and upmarket, thanks to a minimalist dashboard dominated by a pair of 10-inch digital screens as standard. This gives it a premium feel that punches above its price point on the used market. However, this digital-first approach has its drawbacks; many of the car's functions, including the climate controls, are operated via the touchscreen or touch-sensitive sliders, which can be fiddly to use when driving.
The CarGurus Verdict: "When all’s said and done, the Golf is still one of the best family hatchbacks you can buy. The difference is that rivals are much closer than they once were." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Volkswagen Golf review
10. 2021-present Volkswagen Taigo
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top-spec engine impresses | Some interior quality issues |
| Generous standard equipment levels | Expensive compared with more practical T-Cross |
| Spacious, with a particularly large boot | Not that much fun to drive |
The Volkswagen Taigo brings a dash of coupe-SUV style to the small crossover class, and for used buyers on a budget, it offers a compelling blend of fashion and function. As a coupe-style version of the T-Cross, it’s a comfortable and easygoing companion for daily driving. Practicality is a strong suit, with a generous 440-litre boot that’s bigger than you’ll find in many of the family hatchbacks on this list, and impressive rear-seat space. Most used examples under £15,000 will feature one of the efficient 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines, with either 95bhp or 108bhp, which are perfect for keeping running costs low without feeling underpowered for town and A-road driving.
Inside, the Taigo is a mixed bag. While the design is smart and the technology is modern, early models have some cheap-feeling plastics that feel a bit below Volkswagen’s usual standards. However, even entry-level cars are well-equipped, often featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, and adaptive cruise control, which is great value on the used market. While it’s not as fun to drive as a Ford Puma, the Taigo’s real-world appeal lies in its comfort, space, and strong image.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you want a spacious and comfortable car with reasonably striking looks and the undoubted appeal of the VW badge on the nose, then the Taigo ticks a lot of boxes. But it’s also expensive, less fun to drive than a Ford Puma, and the interior quality doesn’t quite feel up to scratch." - Matt Rigby, contributor
Read our full Volkswagen Taigo review
FAQ
What is the most practical family car for under £15,000?
Our survey highlighted just how important practicality is to used car buyers, with 77% of respondents seeking either hatchbacks or family SUVs. Blending the two, the Ford Puma impresses with its huge boot and clever 'MegaBox' for storing wet or muddy items. If you need even more passenger and boot space, the electric Volkswagen ID.4 is exceptionally roomy, offering a massive 543-litre boot and limo-like legroom in the back.
Should I buy a petrol, hybrid, or electric car for under £15,000?
Surprisingly, fuel type isn’t as important as expected among used car buyers at this price point, with 25% saying they would be happy to compromise. That said, there are clear use cases for petrol, hybrid, and fully electric options. If you do lots of short journeys and can charge at home, an electric car like the VW ID.3 or ID.4 could save you a fortune in running costs. For a great all-rounder, a mild-hybrid petrol car like the Ford Puma offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. If you do higher mileage, a modern, efficient petrol car like the VW Golf or Ford Focus is still a very sensible and affordable choice.
What are the options when it comes to paying for a used car?
Just as finance is increasingly popular when buying a new car, so it is when it comes to the second hand market. Only 21% of those surveyed would pay outright for a vehicle, while a huge 76% would consider paying in installments. Getting a good deal is unanimously important however, with eight in ten saying they would try to negotiate with a dealer.
Are vehicle age and mileage still crucial when deciding which used car to buy?
Judging by the survey results, these traditionally important factors still heavily influence buying decisions, with 25% of buyers unwilling to compromise on mileage. Drilling down further, 73% sought a car under five years old, and 70% required low mileage (under 50,000 miles). As much as buyers are still concerned by age and mileage, it’s not the full story. How the car has been used and maintained should be taken into account as well. Car manufacturers have also worked hard to improve consumer confidence in recent years, with generous warranties now increasingly commonplace.
What should I look for when buying any used car for under £15,000?
Always start with a vehicle history check to ensure the car has no hidden past, such as outstanding finance or being written off. Check the service history is complete and that major jobs have been done on time. Take a thorough test drive to listen for any unusual noises and check that all the equipment works. Finally, look at owner reviews and reliability surveys to be aware of any common faults for that specific model.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in February 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
