logo
I'm a motors expert… here are the top used cars you can buy for less than £10k – they're totally underrated

I'm a motors expert… here are the top used cars you can buy for less than £10k – they're totally underrated

Scottish Sun3 days ago
A MOTORS expert has revealed the best cars you can buy for less than £10,000.
The driving whizz from Cars with JB took to YouTube to run through a list of 10 cheap and cheerful rides to bring joy to petrolheads.
12
Motors expert JB revealed the top 10 cars you can buy for under £10,000
You can also find these models on Sun Motors, with financing options available.
Toyota GT86
12
Toyota GT86
Credit: toyota UK
Coming in tenth, JB said that the Toyota gives drivers a "Mazda-style go-karty feel but in a coupe body shell".
It's actually one of the slower cars on the list, with a 0-60mph time of 7.4 seconds but is more than nifty enough to provide plenty of fun.
Insurance and running costs tend to be cheap and handling very stable, making it an ideal first sports car for aspiring motors nuts.
The cheapest examples come in well below budget at around £8,000.
VW Golf GTI Mk6
12
VW Golf GTI Mk6
Credit: Handout
The Golf model has been an international best-seller for decades and is one of the most iconic car ranges in history.
It's attraction has always lain in the fact that it can give drivers a rough and ready experience with plenty of speed at a low price point and the GTI Mk6 is no exception.
Its 2-litre inline-four engine is turbocharged to crunch the 0-60 down to just 6.7 seconds and they can be found online for as little as £4,000.
And they may be about to become a little more valuable as VW confirmed it would discontinue the petrol Golf after the Mk8, with the model going fully electric moving forward.
Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford
Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace
*Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances
You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget.
Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score
, with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute
, get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget
, only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help, get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo
Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds here.
Jaguar XK
12
Jaguar XK
Jaguar is a name more usually associated with high-end luxury roadsters and racing pedigree.
However, the XK can be picked up for £6,500 and can match the Mazda for speed.
The power comes wrapped up in the curves of classic Jag styling and is sure to set any retro car lover's pulse racing.
Subaru Impreza WRX
12
Subaru Impreza WRX
Credit: Handout
The Impreza model is well-renowned in the world of rallying as well and JB described the WRX as "some of the best value for money out there".
They are known for reliability and pure fun.
They may not be as quick as some of the others on the list but when they start at £3,000 you can see why they're a bargain deal.
Porsche Boxter 987 S
12
Porsche Boxster 987
From something that looks like a Porsche, to an actual Porsche, the 987 is some of the best of what the German giant has to offer.
An out-and-out fast sports car for its era, the 987 S can make 0-60 in just 5.2 seconds.
However, they are a little on the pricier side, with more basic examples still clocking in at around £7,400.
Nissan 350Z
12
Nissan 350Z
Credit: Nissan
Picked out as a future classic by JB, the Nissan looks every bit the part with its long bonnet and short backside giving it the appearance of a Porsche 911.
Sleekly designed and quick as the wind, they can also be had for as little as £3,500.
It also offers versatility, with the car as comfortable on a track as it is cruising down the motorway.
Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today
If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start
*If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue
Sun Motors is a seamless, straightforward, transparent platform that ranks by customer searches, not payments. It offers innovative financing and concierge services, ensuring a simple, fair car-buying experience.
Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid
A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more
A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW
Financing options
Trusted dealers
Get started finding your next used vehicle here.
BMW M135i
12
BMW M135i
Speaking of German giants, BMW has dominated the sport coupe market with its M series, and the 135i is no exception.
Even quicker than the Porsche despite its greater weight, it is tuned up with Beemer's top-line hardware.
The only issue is that most are automatic, which doesn't quite give drivers the control and road sense that many look for in performance cars.
Nonetheless, at just £6,500 for a decent example, they aren't the most expensive item either.
Audi S5
12
AUDI S5
It's the Audi S5 that tops the list, with JB saying: "The A5 is one of the most beautiful modern designs on any Audi.
"It won a bunch of design awards for it troubles.
"The 4.2-litre V8 is known to be very reliable...which is a massive positive."
It comes joint quickest with the BMW, but JB gave it the edge as a "fast, useful and good looking daily driver."
The S5 is also a fair bit cheaper, starting at just £4,800.
Mercedes SL500
12
Mercedes Benz SL 500
Credit: Handout
German reliability and plenty of performance are the essence of this beloved convertible.
Mercedes dropped in a chunky 5-litre V8 to carry its sleek frame, generating a sturdy 320 horsepower.
This gives the SL500 an impressive 0-60 of 6.3 seconds, while the handling remains smooth without being overly sanitised.
Older models can be found for around £5,000 but a little more will get you one in better nick.
Mazda 3 MPS
12
Mazda 3 MPS
Credit: AFP
On the Mazda, JB said: "I think the Mazda 3 MPS is one of the most underrated hot hatches on the market.
"For a sensible hot hatch enjoyer it's an excellent car."
It's quicker even than the Merc too with a 5.9 second 0-60.
They retail online for around £5,000 at the bottom end.
What is Sun Motors?
Sun Motors makes the car-buying process extremely easy through a combination of verified dealerships and advanced digital tools.
All dealers on the platform are vetted to meet Sun Motors' standards of reliability and trustworthiness, ensuring that you can shop with trust and confidence at all stages.
You'll be able to search and reserve vehicles online and complete their purchases through a streamlined digital checkout.
Car financing with Sun Motors
Credit Check: After completing your credit check with Sun Motors, you'll find out if you've been approved for a car loan, your interest rate, and the monthly repayment amount.
12
Flexible Options for Poor Credit: Even if you've been denied finance by other lenders, you may still be eligible with Sun Motors. They work with a specialist lender who can provide flexible options, including hire-purchase deals, for those with poor credit histories.
Quick Decision: If your application is successful, you'll receive a decision within 60 seconds.
Car Selection: If approved, you can browse thousands of used cars that fit your budget, giving you confidence that you can secure financing for any car on their marketplace.
This process ensures you can shop for your next car with peace of mind, knowing your financing is already in place.
Representative APR 12.9% Sun Motors are a credit broker, not a lender
Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Three ‘best used cars' under £10,000 are revealed – including aero-dynamic EV & stylish five-seater
Three ‘best used cars' under £10,000 are revealed – including aero-dynamic EV & stylish five-seater

Scottish Sun

time14 minutes ago

  • Scottish Sun

Three ‘best used cars' under £10,000 are revealed – including aero-dynamic EV & stylish five-seater

Read on to find out which car suits your needs best CHEAP & CHEERFUL Three 'best used cars' under £10,000 are revealed – including aero-dynamic EV & stylish five-seater Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A MOTORS expert has revealed the three best cars you can buy for under £10,000 that will serve you long. As the cost of living crisis bites and petrol prices soar with inflation, you might want to look for a reliable and affordable ride. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Toyota RAV4 is renowned for its reliability Credit: Getty Drivers often overlook these three models as they search amongst hundreds of petrol, diesel and electric cars under £10,000. But leading mechanic Scotty Kilmer has shared that these three vehicles are known for their reliability and reasonable price. Toyota RAV4 If you're looking for a hassle-free car and stability, then the motor expert recommends Toyota RAV4. According to Scotty, RAV4 can run for hundreds of thousands miles without ever breaking. He told Express: " I've never seen one of these break yet. As long as you don't drive through six feet of water and flood the whole car out, it's a really good system. "It's been out a while, this one is a 2015, and I've never seen one break." Data from Warranty Solutions Group has backed up Scotty's claims as it put RAV4 at the top of their reliability list. The study showed that only 9.68% of RAV4 owners had made car insurance claims. You can snap up this model for around £9,000, making it a budget friendly option. Nissan LEAF 3 Nissan LEAF is a sought-after EV which can cost less than £5,000 Credit: Getty Nissan LEAF is perfect for drivers looking to transition to EVs without breaking the bank. Farewell to the Nissan Versa: America's Last Affordable Sedan Discontinued Some models are available for under £5,000 and are still in high demand even a decade later. The Nissan Leaf is regarded as one of the most dependable electric vehicles available. With a reliability score of 95.6%, the model ranked second out of 18 vehicles in the WhatCar's most recent assessment of electric vehicles. Dacia Duster 3 Spacious Dacia Duster is perfect for families Credit: Getty Families looking for something a bit roomier might want to buy an SUV. But with models like Range Rovers out of many drivers' price range, Dacia Duster can be a great alternative. The Duster's spacious boot holds more than 1,500 litres when the seats are folded down. The model's interior may not be particularly noteworthy, but according to WhatCar?, it has a "good" overall reliability score, outperforming competitors like the Ford Puma.

Legendary carmaker urgently recalls over 312,000 motors amid fears brakes will FAIL while driving & cause a crash
Legendary carmaker urgently recalls over 312,000 motors amid fears brakes will FAIL while driving & cause a crash

Scottish Sun

time2 days ago

  • Scottish Sun

Legendary carmaker urgently recalls over 312,000 motors amid fears brakes will FAIL while driving & cause a crash

Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A WELL-KNOWN car brand has urgently recalled over 300,000 vehicles over braking issues. Stopping distance is potentiall extended on these motors as a result of the fault, increasing the risk of a crash. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 The 2025 Lincoln Navigator is one of the Ford models listed in the recent recall Credit: © FORD MOTOR COMPANY 4 The Ford F-150 is another model that could potentially see issues with brakes Credit: Getty Ford is recalling a total of 312,120 vehicles across the US in response to the issue. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration spoke about the potential risk created by the braking failure. According to the safety authority, a loss of power brake assist while driving can extend stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash, The recall affects certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles. The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module was flagged as potentially failing while driving. This error could also occur when using the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature, causing a loss of power brake assist. In response, the EBB module software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge, the NHTSA said. The recall notice was issued on Friday, August 1. Previous issues And some of these Ford models have reported other issues in recent months. The F-150 (2025) reported problems with steering in May with inspections and fastener replacements offered for free. Watch Tesla test self-driving cars on London streets as it passes famous landmarks Meanwhile, the Expeditiona & Lincoln Navigator ( 2024-25) was part of a recall notice in the same month. Engine oil plug misalignment on vehicles with 3.5 L GTDI engines was said to lead to a potential leak issue. The 2024-25 Bronco models also reported some issues, including a front lower control arm issue, a rear seat child‑safety lock, a passenger‑side airbag vent flap defect, and a trailer‑brake controller software bug. Rear shock absorber external reservoir corrosion was also a problem associated with these models. Meanwhile the 2025 Ranger reported missing or loose driver's seat bolts. Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model. More on motors The update comes just weeks after Ford recalled a million "defective" cars due to a software glitch. Ford also recently recalled 690,000 motors over potential risks relating to a "fuel leak". And Ford EVs in the UK have been affected by huge recall after fears a fault will leave passengers "trapped". Earlier this year, Ford closed 50 retail dealerships across the UK as part of a huge-shake up. And an impeccably restored Ford Escort that was kept in same family for 50 years has sold for a staggering six-figure sum. 4 Recent models of the Ford Bronco have also been urgently recalled over brakes issues Credit: Getty

I'm a motors expert… here are the top used cars you can buy for less than £10k – they're totally underrated
I'm a motors expert… here are the top used cars you can buy for less than £10k – they're totally underrated

Scottish Sun

time3 days ago

  • Scottish Sun

I'm a motors expert… here are the top used cars you can buy for less than £10k – they're totally underrated

A MOTORS expert has revealed the best cars you can buy for less than £10,000. The driving whizz from Cars with JB took to YouTube to run through a list of 10 cheap and cheerful rides to bring joy to petrolheads. 12 Motors expert JB revealed the top 10 cars you can buy for under £10,000 You can also find these models on Sun Motors, with financing options available. Toyota GT86 12 Toyota GT86 Credit: toyota UK Coming in tenth, JB said that the Toyota gives drivers a "Mazda-style go-karty feel but in a coupe body shell". It's actually one of the slower cars on the list, with a 0-60mph time of 7.4 seconds but is more than nifty enough to provide plenty of fun. Insurance and running costs tend to be cheap and handling very stable, making it an ideal first sports car for aspiring motors nuts. The cheapest examples come in well below budget at around £8,000. VW Golf GTI Mk6 12 VW Golf GTI Mk6 Credit: Handout The Golf model has been an international best-seller for decades and is one of the most iconic car ranges in history. It's attraction has always lain in the fact that it can give drivers a rough and ready experience with plenty of speed at a low price point and the GTI Mk6 is no exception. Its 2-litre inline-four engine is turbocharged to crunch the 0-60 down to just 6.7 seconds and they can be found online for as little as £4,000. And they may be about to become a little more valuable as VW confirmed it would discontinue the petrol Golf after the Mk8, with the model going fully electric moving forward. Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace *Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score , with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute , get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget , only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help, get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds here. Jaguar XK 12 Jaguar XK Jaguar is a name more usually associated with high-end luxury roadsters and racing pedigree. However, the XK can be picked up for £6,500 and can match the Mazda for speed. The power comes wrapped up in the curves of classic Jag styling and is sure to set any retro car lover's pulse racing. Subaru Impreza WRX 12 Subaru Impreza WRX Credit: Handout The Impreza model is well-renowned in the world of rallying as well and JB described the WRX as "some of the best value for money out there". They are known for reliability and pure fun. They may not be as quick as some of the others on the list but when they start at £3,000 you can see why they're a bargain deal. Porsche Boxter 987 S 12 Porsche Boxster 987 From something that looks like a Porsche, to an actual Porsche, the 987 is some of the best of what the German giant has to offer. An out-and-out fast sports car for its era, the 987 S can make 0-60 in just 5.2 seconds. However, they are a little on the pricier side, with more basic examples still clocking in at around £7,400. Nissan 350Z 12 Nissan 350Z Credit: Nissan Picked out as a future classic by JB, the Nissan looks every bit the part with its long bonnet and short backside giving it the appearance of a Porsche 911. Sleekly designed and quick as the wind, they can also be had for as little as £3,500. It also offers versatility, with the car as comfortable on a track as it is cruising down the motorway. Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start *If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue Sun Motors is a seamless, straightforward, transparent platform that ranks by customer searches, not payments. It offers innovative financing and concierge services, ensuring a simple, fair car-buying experience. Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW Financing options Trusted dealers Get started finding your next used vehicle here. BMW M135i 12 BMW M135i Speaking of German giants, BMW has dominated the sport coupe market with its M series, and the 135i is no exception. Even quicker than the Porsche despite its greater weight, it is tuned up with Beemer's top-line hardware. The only issue is that most are automatic, which doesn't quite give drivers the control and road sense that many look for in performance cars. Nonetheless, at just £6,500 for a decent example, they aren't the most expensive item either. Audi S5 12 AUDI S5 It's the Audi S5 that tops the list, with JB saying: "The A5 is one of the most beautiful modern designs on any Audi. "It won a bunch of design awards for it troubles. "The 4.2-litre V8 is known to be very is a massive positive." It comes joint quickest with the BMW, but JB gave it the edge as a "fast, useful and good looking daily driver." The S5 is also a fair bit cheaper, starting at just £4,800. Mercedes SL500 12 Mercedes Benz SL 500 Credit: Handout German reliability and plenty of performance are the essence of this beloved convertible. Mercedes dropped in a chunky 5-litre V8 to carry its sleek frame, generating a sturdy 320 horsepower. This gives the SL500 an impressive 0-60 of 6.3 seconds, while the handling remains smooth without being overly sanitised. Older models can be found for around £5,000 but a little more will get you one in better nick. Mazda 3 MPS 12 Mazda 3 MPS Credit: AFP On the Mazda, JB said: "I think the Mazda 3 MPS is one of the most underrated hot hatches on the market. "For a sensible hot hatch enjoyer it's an excellent car." It's quicker even than the Merc too with a 5.9 second 0-60. They retail online for around £5,000 at the bottom end. What is Sun Motors? Sun Motors makes the car-buying process extremely easy through a combination of verified dealerships and advanced digital tools. All dealers on the platform are vetted to meet Sun Motors' standards of reliability and trustworthiness, ensuring that you can shop with trust and confidence at all stages. You'll be able to search and reserve vehicles online and complete their purchases through a streamlined digital checkout. Car financing with Sun Motors Credit Check: After completing your credit check with Sun Motors, you'll find out if you've been approved for a car loan, your interest rate, and the monthly repayment amount. 12 Flexible Options for Poor Credit: Even if you've been denied finance by other lenders, you may still be eligible with Sun Motors. They work with a specialist lender who can provide flexible options, including hire-purchase deals, for those with poor credit histories. Quick Decision: If your application is successful, you'll receive a decision within 60 seconds. Car Selection: If approved, you can browse thousands of used cars that fit your budget, giving you confidence that you can secure financing for any car on their marketplace. This process ensures you can shop for your next car with peace of mind, knowing your financing is already in place. Representative APR 12.9% Sun Motors are a credit broker, not a lender Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store