New petrol vehicle costs in the UK have climbed significantly over the last decade. To combat these rising prices, many motorists are shifting their focus toward the used car market for better value.
The 67% surge in new petrol car pricing
The financial barrier to entering the new car market has reached unprecedented levels. According to Cox Automotive analysis, the average list price for a new petrol car has increased by 67% over the last ten years. This price hike is driven by a combination of high inflation and rising manufacturing costs,which have pushed the average cost from £27,035 in 2015 to a staggering £45,218 today.
This upward trajectory is significantly outpacing both wage growth and general consumer price inflation. As a result, the automotive market is seeing a structural shift. Data from Cap HPI records indicates that buyers are increasingly unable to justify the premium for new models, leading to a 2.2% rise in used car sales in 2025. This marks the third consecutive year of growth for the second-hand sector as registration numbers for new vehicles struggle to return to pre-pandemic levels.
Skoda's £20,000 advantage in the estate and SUV segments
For families seeking space without the premium price tag, the Skoda brand offers some of the most substantial discounts in the current market. The Skoda Karoq has emerged as a standout value proposition; while a new model costs £32 ,125, a 2022 used example can be found for approximately £12,000, representing a saving of over £20,000.
The Skoda estate lineup also provides significant relief for budget-conscious drivers. The Skoda Superb Estate, known for its 690-litre boot, costs £34,990 when purchased new, yet used models are available for roughly £15,000. Furthermore, the Skoda Kodiaq has been recognized as a top choice for seven-seater utility. While a new Kodiaq commands a price of £43,025, a 2024 model with the 1.5 TSI e-TEC engine can be acquired for around £25,000, saving the buyer over £18,000.
The 30-year legacy of the Kia Sportage and Corolla value
Reliability and long-term popularity continue to drive value in the used market, particularly for established names like Kia and Toyota. The Kia Sportage is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, having first arrived in the UK in August 1995. Despite its longevity, it remains a highly sought-after model. As What Car? reported, a 2022 used Sportage costs only £13,000, which is a massive £18,395 saving compared to the £31,395 price of a new model.
Similarly, the Toyota Corolla has maintained its status as a global bestseller and a top-tier hatchback option. The Corolla has earrned the title of best used hatchback from What Car?,offering a versatile hybrid solution for families. A 2019 Corolla with average mileage can be purchased for £11,000, allowing drivers to avoid the £30,845 price tag associated with new models—a total saving of nearly £20,000.
Which model delivers the elusive £67,000 saving?
While the financial benefits of the second-hand market are clear,certain details in the current markeet reporting remain unverified. Although reports indicate that consumers can find savings as high as £67,000, the specific vehicle or model responsible for this maximum discount has not been identified. this leaves a gap for consumers looking to identify the absolute peak of value in the 2026 market.
Additionally, the current focus on purchase price savings does not account for the potential long-term costs of ownership. While models like the 2019 Toyota Corolla offer massive upfront savings, the reporting does not address how maintenance costs or the availability of parts for older vehicles might impact the total cost of ownership. There is also no mention of how the transition toward electric vehicles might affect the future resale value of these high-performing petrol and hybrid models .
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