What car should I buy for a £9,000 budget?

I have up to £9,000 to spend on a car. I do around 5,000 to 6,000 miles per annum, mostly local but with the occasional long distance journey. I'd like a petrol engine (I don't think I'll get a hybrid for that price?), five doors, manual gearbox, less than 25,000 miles on the clock. I want a car that comfortably fits four adults.

I had a Ford Fiesta Zetec EcoBoost for many years but was recently 'stung' by a broken cam belt after a new engine replacement so feel slightly cautious of Fiestas now (perhaps unfairly). The car needs to be suitable for 19-year-old and 23-year-old new/learner drivers.

Asked on 4 August 2022 by Sarah George

Answered by Andrew Brady

You might find a Toyota Yaris Hybrid within budget it probably wouldn't be the best example (and it won't be below your 25k mile limit, either). A petrol Honda Jazz could be a good option. It'll be cheap to run, reliable and spacious enough for four adults. It might be worth looking at higher-mileage examples – the engines can cope with the miles provided they've been serviced correctly. Also consider a Hyundai i20.

Tags: buying a used car first cars

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