What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Best luxury used car for £15k?

I am currently driving a Volkswagen Phaeton from 2006 and feel like it is time to upgrade it. I do love the Phaeton but it is getting a bit old now and the fuel consumption is well below the modern cars.

I have a budget of around £15-16k and for that I want to buy a used car that's comfortable and economical. My first choice is a 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL500. I know it is not the most economical car in the world, but I would convert it to LPG which would cost me half the price at the pump.

The second car I am considering is a SWB Jaguar XJ from 2009 onwards. I love the looks and the 3.0-litre diesel is both super quick and super economical. Could you please help me choose or maybe you have other suggestions or alternatives?

Asked on 11 April 2016 by romanap26

Answered by Honest John
The CL500 might not readily convert to LPG and if the conversion messes up the engine, that's about £25,000 to replace. I'd have another look at the XJ because it's designed by Ian Callum to be LWB and to my eye looks truncated as a SWB. Astonishingly, it's capable of over 40mpg because at speed it runs at low revs.
Similar questions
I currently own a Mercedes-Benz SLK 300. I love its acceleration, looks and quality. However, I feel I now need a larger car with more boot space and rear seats. I don't want a convertible anymore but...
I'm currently working overseas, but upon my return to the UK next year I plan to buy myself a nice 2008/2009 diesel Jaguar X Type. I owned one of these when I was last back in the UK and it was fantastic....
Any views on the 435d? A 2015 model with less than 15,000 miles can be bought for £25,000 which is only £4000 - 5000 more than the equivalent 420d. The mpg isn't a million miles off the 420d and given...
Related models
More engaging to drive than German rivals. Characterful. Diesel is very strong. Excellent overall refinement.