All of these fantastic cars can be found for under £5,000.
All of these fantastic cars can be found for under £5,000.
Any car shopper will know that it’s no mean feat trying to find a model that stands out from all the rest when you’re on a tight budget.
But style can’t be bought, and the good news is that you don’t need six-figure funds to turn heads on the road.
A quick browse through our online search revealed these used car gems, which are all equal parts fun, interesting and downright stylish.
You really can’t go wrong with this sophisticated roadster. The third-generation model was released in 2005 and quickly became the go-to cabriolet for affordable open-top thrills. It’s one of the most popular sports cars ever built and its classic charm is irrefutable. With powerful engines and razor-sharp steering, it’s an absolute joy to drive, too.
We found: 2007 (07) Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport 2dr – £4998
The DS3 was the first model in Citroën’s new DS range, and its focus was on style and personality. This is no car for wallflowers, with its vast range of colourful paint options, signature shark fin mid-pillar and contrasting roof. Its compact size has drawn comparisons to the MINI hatchback and Fiat 500, but contrary to those, this car has no time for nostalgia. The first-generation models are still refreshingly modern, well built and a genuine blast to drive. Winner of Top Gear’s ‘Car of the Year 2010’ and Best Supermini for four consecutive years in the JD Power Satisfaction Survey UK, this subcompact car blows the competition right out of the water.
We found: 2011 (11) Citroën DS3 1.6 VTi 16V DStyle Plus 3dr – £4998
The Vauxhall Astra might be one of the most popular cars on UK roads, but it’s certainly not boring. With the Astra Mark 6, Vauxhall crafted a stand-out design with a sleek, contoured shape that made rivals look pale in comparison. The cabin was given an upmarket feel and focus was placed on customisation, meaning there’s now a myriad of equipment, accessories and trim options to choose from.
We found: 2012 (12) Vauxhall Astra 1.6i 16V Exclusiv 5dr – £4998
There’s no denying that the Nissan Juke remains one of the most distinctive models on the market. This crossover’s radical styling gives it a quirky allure, and has helped it to become one of the most popular crossovers around. Its unique design language is echoed inside, especially with the optional red metallic cockpit trim and central console that wouldn’t look out of place in a futuristic sci-fi movie. But it’s not all style and no substance; the Juke is seriously enjoyable to drive, and practical too.
We found: 2010 (60) Nissan Juke 1.6 Visia 5dr – £4998
The second-generation Mazda 3 arrived in 2009, with a dramatic new nose and refined outer panel, giving it some much-needed oomph and sports car appeal. All available trim levels are striking and fun, but for extra style points, we’d recommend opting for the 2012 facelifted version, which benefits from a reprofiled nose and extra standard equipment.
We found: 2012 (61) Mazda 3 TS 1.6d 5dr – £4998
For a touch of class, we present the Mercedes-Benz CLK. This 2-door coupé has a sleek shape and pillarless doors, giving it an air of sophistication. The CLK’s luxurious silhouette is backed up by its prestigious badge, and is sure to catch the attention of your co-workers in the office car park.
We found: 2005 (55) Mercedes-Benz CLK 220 CDi Avantgarde 2dr – £4998
The Ford Fiesta Mk6 was launched in 2008 to widespread acclaim. Its bolder styling raised the bar and led to achievements such as being crowned the best-selling car in Britain and the AutoExpress Car of the Year in 2009. Every Fiesta looks good, but the Zetec trim takes the biscuit where style is concerned. With a premium interior, alloy wheels and colourful paint options (such as the inimitable Squeeze Green), the Zetec trim is just what’s needed to make this popular model stand out from the rest.
We found: 2012 (62) Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec 3dr – £4998
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Arnold Clark's award-winning used car search is updated with new stock every day, making it easy for you to find a great deal on your next car.
All of our used cars undergo a thorough pre-delivery inspection, to give you peace of mind before committing to buy. And the best part? We guarantee the best used car deals in the UK.
