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There’s much change afoot in 2020, but one thing remains certain: car makers still need to shift cars. And whatever happens politically and financially, they will ensure there are some great new car deals to entice you into showrooms as they fight for your attention.
This means buyers are in a good position to unlock some really good new car deals, but you’ve got to know what to buy – and how to buy it. We’ve scoured the finance calculators of pretty much every major brand’s website, focusing on Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) plans, because these are by far the most popular route to buying a new car.
The figures in our list of the best new car deals are the ones that matter: the deposit, monthly repayments, and optional final payment are all vital to understand, and you can read more in our PCP guide. It’s also important to know the interest rate, the length of the agreement, the mileage limit and the size of any deposit contributions the manufacturer will make. Most of our deals assume you’ll be putting down a deposit of around 10 to 15 per cent, and will be covering no more than 8,000 miles a year.
How does a PCP work?
More than 90 per cent of the new cars sold in the UK are purchased using some kind of finance, so while list prices are often referred to, monthly figures and deposits are arguably more relevant. Most car makers have their own version of a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and they all work in the same way.
PCPs are best thought of in three parts: the deposit, the monthly repayments, and the optional final payment. The deposit is the cash you’ll put down up front. This can either be a straightforward lump sum, the value of your part-exchange, a deposit contribution from the manufacturer, or a combination of all three.
The size of the deposit will affect the size of your monthly repayments. These are typically made over a 24, 36 or 48-month period, but can be scaled up or down to suit your circumstances. The final part is the optional final payment, which is sometimes referred to as the ‘balloon payment’. Your deposit and monthly payments only go part of the way to paying off the car; in fact, they’re actually paying off its depreciation over the time you’ll have it. To own the car you’ll need to pay the full amount off, but not every buyer does.
Many drivers use the car’s ‘equity’ as the deposit on their next one. This ‘equity’ is made up of overpayments you may have made, since makers often overestimate how much a new car will depreciate to play it safe. This quirk of PCPs means you might not necessarily have to find a big deposit each time you take out a new deal.
If you don’t want to own the car outright or roll any ‘equity’ into a new deal, your third option is to hand the car back with no additional payments, and walk away.
Other ways to finance
Few buyers have the means or motivation to spend tens of thousands of pounds in one go. So while PCP deals are the most popular finance option, retailers also have an alternative, called Personal Contract Hire (PCH).
PCH
Also known as personal leasing, PCH deals require less capital up front. After an ‘initial rental’ or up-front payment, you make a series of regular payments until the agreement ends, after which you hand back the car and walk away.
While there’s no large deposit, unlike a PCP, which offers a reasonable degree of flexibility, a PCH will tie you in for the duration, with no option of handing the car back early without a financial penalty.
Hire purchase
Not many people choose hire purchase now, but it’s still possible to take out an old-fashioned HP agreement on a new car.
Put down a deposit then make monthly repayments that, unlike with a PCH or PCP deal, pay off the value of the car. At the end of the term you own the car outright.
HP agreements are secured against the vehicle, so tend to offer more attractive interest rates than those offered with unsecured bank loans, for example.
Cash, cards & loans
The days of cash being king are long gone in the new-car market and you may find the deals offered via this purchase method are less attractive than those available were you to take out a PCH or PCP deal.
Credit cards offer consumer protection against purchases of between £100 and £30,000, but have heavy interest rates. A bank loan with an attractive interest rate is another route. You’ll pay cash for the car, so dealer discounts are harder to come by.
Choosing the right car for you
Below we’ve highlighted some of our top choices in a range of categories. These are our considered recommendations, but they won’t suit everyone. You should spend time ensuring that the model you choose has the space, style, economy, and performance you need.
Once you’ve drawn up your shortlist, call round dealers to book test drives, and put the car to good use. Make sure you, and anyone else who will be driving it, is satisfied and can find a suitable driving position behind the wheel.
Take the kids along to ensure they can get comfortable, too, and that it’s easy to get child seats in and out. And if you have hobbies with specific requirements, make sure the car is up to the job.
Top 10 best car deals this month
Scroll down below for our list of the best new car deals available right now, listed by category.
Best new car deals 2020
Best city car deals
Suzuki Ignis - £184 per month
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It’s unquestionably the most left-field city car on sale, but there’s a huge amount to love about the Suzuki Ignis.
Its mini-SUV styling is very much in vogue, and unlike some rugged-looking models, it’s actually available with four-wheel drive, although the fuel-saving mild-hybrid system will be of more relevance to most buyers. The Ignis is nippy around town, cheap to run and well equipped on the whole. The trade-off is some slightly below-par materials, but those sitting in the rear will be too busy enjoying decent head and legroom to notice; the Ignis is far more practical than many city cars, helped in part by its sliding rear seats.
Kia Picanto - £198 per month
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The Kia Picanto is proof that good things do come in small packages. It’s close to the Hyundai i10 in terms of size and running costs, but for many buyers it’ll be the seven-year warranty that’ll lead them to a Kia showroom.
Yet there’s more than just reassurance on offer from the Korean firm’s smallest car. Most models are well equipped, but our top pick is the sporty-looking GT-Line, because it’s the cheapest model to come with the best engine in the range, the 99bhp 1.0 T-GDi petrol unit.
Other highlights include the plush Titanium Edition and rugged-looking X-Line models. Should you be on a tighter budget, there’s also a 66bhp 1.0-litre and an 83bhp 1.2, the latter offered with manual or automatic gearboxes.
Best supermini deals
Volkswagen Polo - £186 per month
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The recipe for the VW Polo hasn’t changed much over the years: it remains one of the more expensive superminis on the market, and a step behind the likes of the Fiesta and Ibiza on handling agility.
That doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering, though. Go for our choice, and you’ll have a vehicle that’s just about fast enough, just about big enough for a small family, and comfortable enough to cope with the worst UK road surfaces.
The cabin remains a Polo strength, too. It’s not as plush as you might expect, but it is immaculately screwed together. If you’re picking a small car to do reasonable mileage, you could do far worse than this.
Renault Clio £217 per month
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Last November, the latest Clio beat the Fiesta to become our top supermini, and at the start of this year it secured its place by beating the new Vauxhall Corsa. Its interior design, quality and tech impressed us.
Our choice is the mid-spec Iconic, which boasts a seven-inch touchscreen, although that grows to 10 inches in range-topping models. While the Fiesta is more fun to drive, the Clio is quiet and comfortable. The engine range includes two 1.0-litre petrols, with or without a turbo, and a 1.3, while a 1.5-litre diesel is also on offer.
We like the turbo 1.0-litre, because it blends performance with efficiency; and it’s available with manual or auto gearboxes.
Best hatchback deals
Vauxhall Astra - £288 per month
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The Astra is arguably a more compelling proposition than it has ever been, thanks to decent tech and fresh engines designed to boost performance and fuel-efficiency.
Choose our favourite spec, with a 130PS 1.2-litre turbo petrol, and you’ll have more than enough pace, refinement and decent real-world fuel economy. Downsides? The cabin is functional and, in the most part, roomy enough, but it’s short on flair.
The warranty is a simple three-year deal when many rivals are offering five or even seven-year cover. This is less of a concern if you’re leasing or financing the car, the deals offered by Vauxhall on the Astra are some of the strongest around.
BMW 1 Series - £288 per month
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BMW broke its own rule by switching the 1 Series to front-wheel drive for this latest generation, but the brand has still managed to make its family hatch one of the best-driving cars in the class. If you’re wondering whether to pick the BMW, or its Mercedes or Audi rivals, the 1 Series is definitely the most fun out of the three.
The move away from rear-wheel drive has let BMW greatly improve the car’s practicality; the hatch has enough space in the rear for a pair of adults, although taller occupants might still grumble about headroom.
There’s a decent range of engines, but our pick is the 118i, a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor. It has enough pep to keep up with the 1 Series’ chassis, and an appealing three-pot burble.
Volkswagen Golf (Mk7.5) - £400 per month
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Volkswagen recently unveiled the eighth generation of its iconic family hatchback, but there are still lots of the outgoing model knocking around and they represent some sensational value for money if you find the right deal.
It’s not as if the ‘old’ Golf is radically different underneath from the car that is replacing it; both use the VW Group’s MQB platform. While you won’t find fuel-saving mild-hybrid tech on a Mk7.5, you’ll still enjoy pretty frugal mileage and excellent refinement, helped by suspension settings that offer a superb blend of body control and comfort. The cabin’s a simple, functional masterpiece.
The petrol engines are all smooth, but for stellar low running costs (and a potential bargain, too) it’s hard to look beyond the 2.0-litre diesel motor.
Best estate car deals
Skoda Octavia Estate - £314 per month
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Time is running out for the current Octavia Estate, but the impending arrival of its successor means that there are some stellar deals available.
It’s not as if you’ll be getting a duff car, either. While the next Octavia improves efficiency, interior quality and connectivity, it doesn’t really tamper with a formula that has made this Skoda one of our favourite estates. It’s a no-nonsense, practical tool that gets the job done better than its rivals, while also offering superior value.
For proper load-lugging ability, the 148bhp 2.0 TDI diesel is the one to go for. Get one in SE L trim and it could be all the car that you’ll ever need.
Mazda 6 Tourer - £403 per month
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The Mazda 6 is one of the oldest cars on this list – but it makes a solid choice as an affordable mid-sized wagon that’s decent to drive and offers low running costs.
The 6 Tourer could be a very appealing workhorse, in fact – with a hard-wearing but well finished cabin. Mazda’s petrol engines are keen to rev, but the obvious choice has to be the refined 2.2-litre diesel, which has 380Nm of torque.
You should play it clever on the trim levels, though. SE-L Nav has softer suspension than you’ll find on a Sport, yet while this also brings a little more body roll, we think it strikes a better compromise between agility and comfort.
Volvo V90 - £529 per month
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There was a time when Volvo’s biggest wagon was simply the best load-lugger around. These days the V90 no longer leads the way for outright capacity, but it does appeal in many other ways.
Like the smaller V60, the V90 is based on Volvo’s SPA chassis. That means it’s packed with cutting-edge powertrain and safety tech – but in a car that can muster more than 1,500 litres of boot space if you fold down the rear seats.
The engine line-up is simple. While many buyers will be tempted by the petrol models, the 187bhp D4 four-cylinder diesel also has 400Nm of torque, which will give you pulling power to spare.
Mercedes E-Class Estate - £528 per month
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Model: Mercedes E 220 d SE Estate
List price: £40,834
Deposit: £6,500 (£0 contribution)Monthly payments: £528.10
Number of payments: 48
APR: 5.9%Optional final payment: £14,800Total to pay by customer if returning: £31,848.80Total to pay by customer if buying: £46,648.80
If you’re after an estate car for practicality above all else, then the Mercedes E-Class Estate ought to be at the top of your list.
The big wagon has a cavernous boot, with more than 1,800 litres of space if you fold the second row – Mercedes even claims a standard Euro pallet can fit.
The E-Class is more than just Wembley Arena on wheels, though. It has a great cabin, with luxurious finishes and an astonishing infotainment system.
On the road, the E-Class isn’t the most dynamic or involving estate, but the E 220 d SE is a refined cruiser that sacrifices a little body control in corners for a smoother ride; AMG Line adds a sporty touch.
Best compact executive car deals
Alfa Romeo Giulia - £355 per month
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Historically, compact executive buyers spend a lot of time at the wheel, so how their car handles is important, but it must also be comfortable and refined. The Giulia strikes a wonderful balance, thanks to its sharp steering, tight body control and responsive engines.
The diesel offers higher mileage-drivers low running costs – especially if you spend a lot of time on the motorway. Pre-2020 model year cars feel a little cheap in places, but there are bargains to be had if you can live with that.
BMW 3 Series - £389 per month
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Model: BMW 320i M Sport auto
List price: £35,465
Deposit: £4,409 (£2,721.37 contribution)Monthly payments: £388.83
Number of payments: 47
APR: 4.9%Optional final payment: £14,170.68Total to pay by customer if returning: £22,684.01Total to pay by customer if buying: £36,854.69
The BMW 3 Series is our favourite compact executive, and with good reason. It’s great to drive, cheap to run, and there are loads of engine and trim choices.
Whether you’re after a fuel-sipping diesel to cover long motorway journeys, or a plug-in hybrid capable of zero-emission electric running, this latest 3 Series really does cover all bases.
It also has a high-quality cabin, an intuitive infotainment system and enough space for all the family – few cars can tick quite so many boxes, in fact – and there’s even a Touring estate model for those who need some more space.
Before you buy, look carefully at how you’ll use the car, because diesel is no longer the default choice; the 330e hybrid is a fantastic all-rounder, although you need to be able to plug it in to make the most of its rock-bottom running costs.
Audi A4 - £426 per month
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Cars like the Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class have played second fiddle to the fantastic 3 Series since it launched in late 2018. But that’s not to say they aren’t excellent all-rounders.
The A4 majors on quality and comfort, with a beautifully crafted cabin filled with technology. There’s no plug-in hybrid at the moment, but don’t let that put you off; the petrol engines are smooth and the diesels efficient; and because it’s an older model, there are some cracking deals on offer.
We’d go for a refined TFSI petrol model for its blend of performance and costs, and Sport or S line trim give you desirable goodies such as sat-nav and leather seats.
Mercedes C-Class - £530 per month
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Few cars offer as much variation or choice as the latest C-Class. There are loads of engines – petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids – as well as plenty of trims to choose from.
Our top pick is the C 220 d in sporty AMG Line spec, which now uses a superior (when compared with its 2.1-litre predecessor) 2.0-litre diesel. If you can’t stretch to this higher trim, even the entry-level SE model comes with sat-nav, heated front seats, cruise control and a reversing camera. The man-made Artico leather is almost indistinguishable from the real thing, too.
The C-Class drives well, but has a more comfort-focused edge than its BMW 3 Series rival – although the same can’t be said of the storming Mercedes-AMG C 63 range-topper, which is a wild beast whichever way you look at it.
Best executive car deals
BMW 5 Series - £410 per month
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Few cars can hold a candle to the all-round abilities of the BMW 5 Series. Buyers get a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as plenty of trim and spec options.
No matter which you choose, you’ll be buying one of the finest-handling executive cars on the market, with sharp steering, brilliant composure and excellent refinement. BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is one of the most intuitive and feature-packed set-ups around, although a lack of Android connectivity options limits its appeal; those with an Apple smartphone are well catered for, however.
If you rack up big miles, we’d opt for the fantastic 520d, while those with a shorter commute could save thousands by choosing the 530e PHEV.
Audi A6 - £440 per month
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You’d be forgiven for thinking there’s little to separate cars like this latest Audi A6 from rivals like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class. But in fact, they perform their given task in rather different ways.
The Audi’s biggest highlight is its beautiful interior; little in this class comes close to it for tech, luxury, refinement and ergonomics. It’s a really comfortable car to travel long distances in, and with a wide range of connectivity solutions, it’s easy to connect your smartphone, no matter which device you use.
The engine range comprises a variety of petrol and diesel options, with seemingly no weak link in the line-up. The 40 TDI is quick yet frugal, while a plug-in hybrid model will arrive later in 2020.
Jaguar XF - £531 per month
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The XF is a smooth performer, with a slick auto and a comfortable ride. Plus, much like the smaller XE, it’s rewarding to drive, with sharp steering and great handling.
The engines aren’t as refined as you’ll find in some of the XF’s rivals, while the car’s interior could do with an update, too; the XE’s revised infotainment set-up is far superior to the XF’s, while BMW’s iDrive puts the ageing Jaguar to shame.
And yet the big Jag is still a worthy luxury saloon, with bucketloads of badge appeal and a variety of trims to choose from. Bag a bargain and you’ll have an accomplished executive car that’ll look right at home in the company car park.
Best small SUV deals
Skoda Kamiq - £209 per month
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The Kamiq is our favourite small SUV. If you’re after a compact crossover with loads of kit and room for the family, little else comes close. In fact, its blend of space and value ensures it’s one of the best all-rounders on sale – the fact you needn’t step up to the top-spec SE L to get plenty of desirable kit makes it hard to resist.
It drives well, is easy to manoeuvre, and wide-opening rear doors should ensure loading kids into the back is a doddle. Skoda’s Simply Clever mantra hits the spot once again.
Citroen C3 Aircross - £256 per month
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If comfort is key, then there’s only one compact SUV for you. The C3 Aircross has more than a whiff of the sixties DS about the way it rides, soaking up urban lumps and bumps with ease.
The trade-off is that it’s not much fun on a country road, but if you spend most of your time in town or the motorway, then the C3 Aircross is a top choice. The three-cylinder PureTech petrol engines are a known quantity, and feature in everything from the Peugeot 308 to the Vauxhall Corsa; punchy and economical, there’s really very little not to like.
The Aircross’s interior is quirky, plus it’s light, airy and packed with kit.
Best family SUV deals
Skoda Karoq - £273 per month
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Few cars fit so seamlessly into family life as the Skoda Karoq. The compact SUV shape offers lots of space inside; clever touches like a removable waste bin and fold-down tables show the level of thought the brand has put into the car, while there’s comfortably enough room for five people and the 521-litre boot is vast. The wide range of engines include the 49.6mpg-rated 1.6 TDI and the 187bhp, four-wheel drive 2.0-litre turbo petrol.
Sure, there are more exciting cars in the class – both to look at and to drive – but judged in the areas that matter the most for a typical family car, the Skoda is the class-leader
BMW X3 - £399 per month
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Buyers looking for a premium badge on their family SUV could do worse than the BMW X3. It mixes a solid feel with fairly engaging handling – by SUV standards
– and the engine line-up is fantastic. The smooth four-cylinder petrol performs well, but it’s the torquey, frugal diesels that make the most sense here; while the six-cylinder 30d is a brilliant unit, the more affordable 20d is our choice.
A plug-in hybrid is also available, and if you keep it charged daily then you’ll hardly ever need to use any petrol. The X3 is beautifully built and boasts a brilliant infotainment system, while interior and boot space are among the class best.
Volkswagen Tiguan - £390 per month
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The Volkswagen Tiguan doesn’t quite offer the same value for money as the other VW Group SUVs here, but it gives buyers the option of a more premium brand.
In SEL trim it’s a handsome SUV, while it’s well finished inside. It’s practical, too; both the cabin and boot capacity will easily handle a family of five – or seven if you go for the Allspace model. There’s possibly the most comprehensive petrol and diesel engine line-up in the class – including a twin-turbocharged diesel producing 237bhp – and it’s a refined, relaxing car to drive. But the Tiguan lacks the mild or plug-in hybrid options that some other rivals can offer.
Best large SUV deals
Nissan X-Trail - £332 per month
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There are more flexible rivals when it comes to seating and practicality, but current finance deals mean the X-Trail is one of the most competitively priced large SUVs on sale.
Nissan offers a five-seat layout if you wish, while the theatre-style arrangement of the seats means that even those in the back get a decent view outside, and wide-opening rear doors make it easy to get in and out.
In seven-seat mode, the storage space is lacking when compared to some rivals here, with a 445-litre space on offer once the back row is folded flat into the floor.
Hyundai Santa Fe - £464 per month
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There was a time when the Santa Fe was a dependable, rugged, but somewhat agricultural SUV. Yet this latest fourth-generation model is as handsome and refined as anything else in the class.
While some seven-seaters try to offer a sporty bias, the Santa Fe is set up for comfort. Its easy-going nature is a perfect partner for family life; something that the spacious, well finished cabin also contributes to day-to-day.
There’s a single 2.2-litre diesel option, so your only choice is which trim level. On the plus side, the hefty 440Nm of torque figure is more than capable of lugging around seven people and their luggage.
Best premium SUV deals
Porsche Cayenne - £569 per month
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While big SUVs tend not to offer the last word in driving dynamics, the Cayenne is head and shoulders above its rivals when it comes to sports car credentials.
This two-tonne, high-riding machine out-corners many conventional saloons, with performance to match. Models like the Turbo offer scintillating straight-line speed, yet not every version will cost the earth to run: the e-Hybrid’s plug-in powertrain allows journeys of up to 30 miles to be completed on electric power.
Throw in one of the finest cabins in any SUV – plus a huge amount of space – and it’s no surprise that the Cayenne is one of the most sought-after SUVs on sale.
Lexus RX - £607 per month
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Lexus likes to do luxury just a little differently to other premium brands. The space-age exterior of the RX 450h gives way to a beautifully crafted cabin that feels at least as sumptuous as any rival.
And while most of the competition is only just jumping onto the electrified bandwagon, Lexus has been at it for years. The RX doesn’t have a plug-in hybrid option, but the RX’s mix of electric motor and V6 petrol engine should return around 35mpg in everyday driving.
While the standard model is a strict five-seater, the extended RX L offers an extra pair of seats. However, rivals have much more space in the third row.
Volvo XC90 - £627 per month
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Is there a more handsome premium seven-seat SUV than the Volvo XC90? Inside or out, the Swedish car quietly talks up its understated class in a way that few others in this class can deliver.
While it’s not quite as spacious inside as the Discovery, accommodation across all three rows feels sumptuous. In five-seat mode, the car has a van-like 1,007 litres of load space.
The recent addition of mild-hybrid tech has seen CO2 emissions drop a little across the range (we’d go for the diesel-powered B5 model), while the plug-in hybrid T8 delivers both sensational speed and the promise of tiny fuel bills.
Audi Q7 - £641 per month
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A five-grand deposit contribution from Audi means that it’s easier than ever to get into a Q7. And there’s plenty to like: the ride quality and refinement are brilliant, while the handling is safe and secure.
You can pick from six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus the flagship V8 diesel-powered SQ7. Get a car with four-wheel steering if you can: it makes this big SUV remarkably easy to drive at slow speeds.
An update in 2019 introduced Audi’s latest infotainment tech, and the three-screen digital display looks fantastic. But, while the third row of seats will cater to adults on shorter journeys, the Q7 isn’t quite as spacious as the Discovery.
Land Rover Discovery - £710 per month
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The iconic Land Rover Discovery is now in its fifth iteration, and this is arguably the most complete version yet.
Predictably for a Land Rover, the Discovery is incredible off road, traversing rough ground more capably than any car in this class has any right – or even need – to. Then, there’s its practicality: that boxy roofline might look ungainly, but it means the space in every row trounces almost any other seven-seat SUV rival. Drop the split tailgate and even seven-up there’s a respectable 228-litre boot.
But it’s the way the Discovery drives that impresses the most. On the road, it’s quiet, comfortable and surprisingly easy to manoeuvre for a car of its size.
BMW X5 - £781 per month
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Arguably the BMW X5 is the car that began the premium SUV craze, and it has long held onto its spot near the top of the class. This latest model continues the trend, with the finest balance of ride and handling in the segment.
The X5’s engine line-up is more than a match for the chassis, too. Four, six, and eight-cylinder powerplants (the former available as a plug-in hybrid, the latter in the quick M models) mean that the X5 has a wide range to choose from. They’re all great performers, too, and matched to one of the best automatic gearboxes on the market.
The X5 is well finished inside, and it comes equipped with a brilliant infotainment system. While a seven-seat option is offered, BMW’s larger X7 is the better choice for buyers who want to carry six passengers.
Best coupe and cabriolet deals
Porsche 718 Cayman - £409 per month
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If you’re after a supreme driver’s car, it’s hard to look past the Porsche 718 Cayman, especially with some deals sneaking under the £50k mark. The entry-level Porsche hard-top packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged flat-four engine. While the exhaust note may not appeal to all, its performance certainly will. After all, this car can crack 0-62mph in just over five seconds. When you’re up to speed, the sublime chassis strikes an amazing compromise between handling agility and ride comfort.
The only way you can really go wrong with a Cayman is to start ticking too many option boxes, because things may get out of hand if you don’t show restraint.
Toyota Supra - £561 per month
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Toyota’s reborn Supra is a world away from the modified creations that made the nameplate famous in movies like Fast and Furious. But that doesn’t mean that the coupé is not a success.
Developed alongside the BMW Z4 convertible, the Supra has a decent chassis that feels well tuned for British roads. Plus the 3.0-litre six-cylinder motor is extremely smooth (perhaps even too smooth for a sports car) and has more than enough punch to make the Toyota a genuinely rapid thing; the 0-62mph sprint takes just 4.3 seconds.
Inside, there’s a slightly odd mix of some Japanese plastics with a BMW infotainment system and switches. But the Supra looks like nothing else on the road, and has just about enough driver appeal to swing the rest of the deal.
Ford Mustang - £642 per month
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It’s a modern car, but the Mustang still offers old-school muscle-car thrills mainly due to the characterful thud of its 5.0-litre V8 motor, which provides 410bhp and 530Nm of torque, enough to take Ford’s icon to 155mph with relative ease.
Around the corners, the Mustang doesn’t try to be something it’s not, so the handling is about enjoyment more than out-and-out pace. And the same can be said for the cabin, which is neatly finished, honest and surprisingly practical.
In particular, the boot is big enough to cope with the luggage for a long weekend away – precisely the sort of long journey where this relaxed GT is at its best.
Best hybrid and PHEV deals
Toyota Prius - £320 per month
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The strengths of the Toyota Prius that make it so appealing to private hire companies are equally applicable to private buyers. This fourth-generation hybrid has a strong reputation for fuel-efficiency, especially in town, and its cabin is typically robust.
It’s the same story with the Toyota’s petrol-electric hybrid system, which is well proven; even the CVT-based transmission is more intuitive and refined than it used to be. The Prius is a car that will rack up the miles without complaint, and this latest version is far better to drive than its predecessors, too.
Look beyond the fuel-sipping tech, and the Prius is also a solid family car; the cabin can seat four in comfort and the boot is big enough for most needs.
BMW 530e - £479 per month
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On paper, the BMW 530e is designed to help company car choosers avoid too much Benefit-in-Kind tax. Its mix of four-cylinder turbocharged petrol power and a plug-in hybrid powertrain results in meagre CO2 emissions that could save users a chunk over more conventional options like the regular 520d.
But that doesn’t mean this car isn’t relevant – or appealing – to everyone else. The powertrain delivers 248bhp and 420Nm, enough for a 0-62mph time of just over six seconds. And the 5 Series is still the most involving big executive saloon to drive; only a slightly firmer ride reveals the 530e is heavier than a 520d.
Factor in a high-quality cabin, excellent practicality and – assuming you can plug the car in to charge it – the potential for considerable savings on fuel, and you can see why this is one of our favourite Fives.
Mercedes E 300 de - £591 per month
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Mercedes has taken a bold approach to electrification across its range, and it has opted to offer a mix of fuel types in its hybrid line-up. One of the most significant models is the diesel-electric E 300 de. Plug this Merc in on a daily basis, and you’ll be able to do many a commute on electric power alone; the car can manage up to 34 miles without using its engine at all, in fact.
The difference that this car’s diesel engine brings is that, when you do end up making a long journey – one that goes beyond the hybrid system’s all-electric range – you’ll still be recording fuel economy comfortably north of 50mpg. That makes the E 300 de a fantastically efficient all-rounder – and one with all of the usual E-Class strengths rolled in.
Volvo XC60 T8 - £646 per month
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Can a full-sized family SUV really be a king of efficiency? It all depends on how you’re planning to use the Volvo XC60 T8, which mixes a petrol engine with plug-in battery systems to deliver up to 400bhp.
As with any plug-in, charging is key, and if you regularly tackle short journeys, then the T8’s claimed battery range of 28 miles means you should be an infrequent visitor to your local petrol station.
The XC60 has plenty of good qualities, too – a nicely finished cabin, great in-car technology, comfortable seating for four adults and a boot that’s big enough for their luggage. All in all it’s a fantastically efficient and luxurious family SUV.
Lexus LC 500h - £987 per month
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A commitment to electrification means that Lexus is slightly ahead of the curve for bringing the tech to niche models – as exemplified by the LC 500h, a big luxury GT that also happens to be a hybrid.
It works, too; the V6 petrol-based powertrain delivers 0-62mph in less than five seconds, but the Lexus works best as a cruiser, with its systems delivering longer journeys between fuel stops, and the beautifully finished and refined cabin helping to dial out the worst of a trip.
Downsides? Infotainment is still a mixed bag, and the transmission trips over itself if you try to hustle it. But the LC 500h still has plenty of charm.
Best electric car deals
Hyundai Kona Electric - £429 per month
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For many family EV buyers, the choice between a Kona Electric and a Kia e-Niro comes down to which they prefer the look of, how they prioritise space, and how keen the finance package is. While the Kona has more striking looks, the e-Niro is a little more spacious, and comes with a longer warranty. They’re identical mechanically and have 64kW batteries, although the Kona takes fractionally less time to charge.
Like the e-Niro, the Kona offers the possibility of one-pedal driving, allowing the driver to cycle through increasing levels of regenerative braking to the extent that round-town driving could render the brake pedal almost obsolete.
Kia e-Niro - £480 per month
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Perhaps no car can quite capture Kia’s move upmarket like the e-Niro, because, put simply, it’s one of the most impressive electric vehicles to date. Equipped with a 64kWh battery pack, it’s capable of a claimed 282 miles on a single charge, making it one of the most affordable long-distance electric vehicles on sale at the moment.
It’s a hugely practical car, with a big boot and plenty of room for passengers. You’ll need a little under 10 hours to top it up fully from a 7.2kW wallbox, and a 0-80 per cent charge takes 54 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger. These factors combine to make the Kia e-Niro a no-compromise family model, and the perfect choice for many buyers.
Audi e-tron - £699 per month
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The e-tron is Audi’s first all-electric production car, but you wouldn’t know, because it feels like the full package. It roundly beats the Tesla Model X for comfort, refinement and build quality. While the Audi’s 249-mile range can’t quite match that of the Jaguar I-Pace, the e-tron can charge its batteries to 80 per cent quite a bit faster – as long as you’re using one of the UK’s handful of super-rapid chargers. It can accept 150kW charging – as fast as you can currently get.
On the road, the e-tron may not be quite as quick as a Model X nor as fun as an I-Pace, but the German EV glides over rutted tarmac. And its smart technology, like fully digital door mirrors and two big touchscreens with haptic feedback, makes the e-tron a joy to use.
Jaguar I-Pace - £746 per month
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If you’re looking for a stunning, spacious EV that drives like a sports car, the Jaguar I-Pace is the only model in town. Part of the appeal is laid bare in its vital statistics: 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds, 396bhp and 696Nm of torque, plus a 90kWh battery. That’s not quite Tesla territory, but it’s not far off. It lands its killer blow when it comes to the alertness of its steering, and agility that a Tesla Model X simply can’t match.
The Jag’s visual drama extends inside, with a spacious, airy and beautiful cabin that’s loaded with technology. A 100kW charger will add 240 miles of range in 40 minutes, which increases to 85 minutes from a more common 50kW charger.
Best performance car deals
Honda Civic Type R - £319 per month
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Honda’s Civic Type R is one of the more extreme hot hatches, fitted with a 316bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol turbo engine that takes it from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a frankly ludicrous 169mph.
Yet the Civic’s split personality is even more impressive than its performance. Thanks to adaptive dampers, when you’re not at a track day, this Type R (unlike its predecessors) calms down to the point where you could use it as your daily drive.
The cabin is hit and miss on plastics and infotainment, but the Civic has plenty of space for four adults, and a sizeable boot. For those after the outer limit of what a hot hatch can do, it’s a remarkable creation.
Jaguar F-Type - £577 per month
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Jaguar’s flagship sports car is going through a mid-life facelift at present, but that gives the buyer some terrific options.
The revised model has an updated cabin with the latest tech, but you might get a stellar deal on the older generation, and the option of the fabulous V6 engine. Either way, the F-Type mixes stunning looks with excellent handling; it laps up twistier routes, but offers enough comfort around town and on bumpier sections.
The V8 is properly fast in either pre- or post-facelift F-Types, but from the latest line-up of models we’d be tempted by the four-cylinder 2.0-litre version. It’s fast enough and feels even lighter on its feet.
BMW M2 - £633 per month
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BMW’s M Division has a history of doing great things with the Bavarian brand’s smaller models, and the M2 Competition packs a twin-turbocharged straight-six petrol engine with 404bhp and 550Nm. That’s enough to take this coupé from 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds.
There’s more than raw performance here, though, because the BMW’s chassis is nicely set up for driver thrills. The M2 is well finished, seriously fast and incredible fun – everything that an M-car should be.
Porsche 911 - £677 per month
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The latest generation of Porsche 911 is not just a sports car; after more than half a century of evolution, this stalwart is one of the ultimate all-round driver’s cars.
The recipe is familiar, of course, with a flat-six engine mounted beyond the rear wheels. But the chassis is now every bit as comfortable cruising along a motorway or doing a grand tourer’s work down a country B-road as it is shredding rubber on a track day. Heck, the 911 even has two extra (child-sized) seats and a fair bit of luggage space under the bonnet.
As with all Porsches, the key is to keep things simple. So our favourite 911 is the basic Carrera; it’s more than fast enough for the UK, and as long as you specify adaptive dampers, it’s comfortable too.
Best luxury car deals
Jaguar XJ - £549 per month
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The Jaguar XJ saloon is about to undergo a dramatic overhaul – it’s going all-electric – so now is a great time to grab a bargain on the outgoing model.
It may be one of the oldest cars in this shortlist but it can still compete. This is a Jaguar, so it’s the best car to drive here, with precise handling and great body control. The fabulous 550bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 is able to exploit that wonderful chassis, too.
The more sensible 3.0-litre diesel is the best value, though, and it comes with a nice deposit contribution. But it may be worth looking at the long-wheelbase model – space in the rear isn’t the most generous.
BMW 7 Series - £716 per month
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BMW’s latest update to the design of the 7 Series may raise a few eyebrows but there’s no denying how good this flagship saloon is as a luxury car. It’s refined, comfortable and beautifully built.
The German firm also has among the most comprehensive ranges of plug-in hybrid models, and the 7 Series is one of its most advanced. The car uses its on-board mapping to manage the amount of electricity stored in the battery. If the system knows you’re heading into a city, for example, it’ll save energy so you can drive emission-free once you’re there.
The latest model also comes with an excellent dealer deposit contribution.
Range Rover - £867 per month
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Not many cars can boast a customer base that includes the Royal Family as well as Premier League footballers, but the Range Rover is one of them.
It’s also one of the few luxury cars on the market that is every bit as at home on the road as it is off it. Four-wheel drive, complex off-road systems and the raised ride height mean it’s one of the most accomplished and capable cars you can buy. Mind you, few owners ever really take advantage of such ability, though.
A plug-in hybrid recently joined the range, adding another layer of refinement to the driving experience, but the smooth and punchy V6 diesel is the one to go for.
Mercedes S-Class £1,131 per month
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Think of luxury cars and the Mercedes S-Class won’t be too far from the front of your mind. The saloon has been around for decades and it regularly sets the benchmark for what is expected in the luxury car class.
This latest model is the most advanced there has ever been and is the current Auto Express Luxury Car of the Year. The pick of the range is the S 350 d L AMG Line; more exciting and powerful engines are available but the six-cylinder diesel motor is punchy enough, effortless in its delivery, and supremely quiet – all essential traits for a true luxury car.
Lexus LS - £1,228 per month
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Lexus has often been seen as a bit of an outsider in the luxury car class, despite having a rival for the Mercedes S-Class on sale for more than 30 years.
The latest LS is the most eye-catching the Japanese brand has made; angular headlamps, a gaping grille and intricate alloy wheels certainly give it presence.
The hybrid powertrain in the 500h makes it very refined at low speeds, but the CVT gearbox can get a little coarse once you up the pace a bit.
Nevertheless, the cabin is beautifully trimmed with leather, cool aluminium and brushed wood detailing.
Best new car deals 2020: top discounts online
The car deals above are official manufacturer prices. However for some of the cheapest new or nearly-new cars out there, you might be interested in using an online car dealer - so we've put together a list of deals from the top UK sites, including our sister site BuyaCar. Note that these deals only run for a limited time - make sure you double-check the prices using the linked sites.
Renault Kadjar 1.3 TCe GT Line: £265 per month (£1,000 deposit)
Kia Sportage 1.6 GDI ISG 2: £267 per month (£1,874 deposit)
Audi A4 35 TFSI Technik: £289 per month (£4,500 deposit)
Kia Stinger 2.0 T-GDi GT-Line: £364 per month (£2,594 deposit)
Alpine A110 1.8 Pure: £499 per month (£6,453 deposit)
You can check the latest discounts being offered online at our sister site BuyaCar.co.uk.
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This means buyers are in a good position to unlock some really good new car deals, but you’ve got to know what to buy – and how to buy it. We’ve scoured the finance calculators of pretty much every major brand’s website, focusing on Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) plans, because these are by far the most popular route to buying a new car.
The figures in our list of the best new car deals are the ones that matter: the deposit, monthly repayments, and optional final payment are all vital to understand, and you can read more in our PCP guide. It’s also important to know the interest rate, the length of the agreement, the mileage limit and the size of any deposit contributions the manufacturer will make. Most of our deals assume you’ll be putting down a deposit of around 10 to 15 per cent, and will be covering no more than 8,000 miles a year.
How does a PCP work?
More than 90 per cent of the new cars sold in the UK are purchased using some kind of finance, so while list prices are often referred to, monthly figures and deposits are arguably more relevant. Most car makers have their own version of a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and they all work in the same way.
PCPs are best thought of in three parts: the deposit, the monthly repayments, and the optional final payment. The deposit is the cash you’ll put down up front. This can either be a straightforward lump sum, the value of your part-exchange, a deposit contribution from the manufacturer, or a combination of all three.
The size of the deposit will affect the size of your monthly repayments. These are typically made over a 24, 36 or 48-month period, but can be scaled up or down to suit your circumstances. The final part is the optional final payment, which is sometimes referred to as the ‘balloon payment’. Your deposit and monthly payments only go part of the way to paying off the car; in fact, they’re actually paying off its depreciation over the time you’ll have it. To own the car you’ll need to pay the full amount off, but not every buyer does.
Many drivers use the car’s ‘equity’ as the deposit on their next one. This ‘equity’ is made up of overpayments you may have made, since makers often overestimate how much a new car will depreciate to play it safe. This quirk of PCPs means you might not necessarily have to find a big deposit each time you take out a new deal.
If you don’t want to own the car outright or roll any ‘equity’ into a new deal, your third option is to hand the car back with no additional payments, and walk away.
Other ways to finance
Few buyers have the means or motivation to spend tens of thousands of pounds in one go. So while PCP deals are the most popular finance option, retailers also have an alternative, called Personal Contract Hire (PCH).
PCH
Also known as personal leasing, PCH deals require less capital up front. After an ‘initial rental’ or up-front payment, you make a series of regular payments until the agreement ends, after which you hand back the car and walk away.
While there’s no large deposit, unlike a PCP, which offers a reasonable degree of flexibility, a PCH will tie you in for the duration, with no option of handing the car back early without a financial penalty.
Hire purchase
Not many people choose hire purchase now, but it’s still possible to take out an old-fashioned HP agreement on a new car.
Put down a deposit then make monthly repayments that, unlike with a PCH or PCP deal, pay off the value of the car. At the end of the term you own the car outright.
HP agreements are secured against the vehicle, so tend to offer more attractive interest rates than those offered with unsecured bank loans, for example.
Cash, cards & loans
The days of cash being king are long gone in the new-car market and you may find the deals offered via this purchase method are less attractive than those available were you to take out a PCH or PCP deal.
Credit cards offer consumer protection against purchases of between £100 and £30,000, but have heavy interest rates. A bank loan with an attractive interest rate is another route. You’ll pay cash for the car, so dealer discounts are harder to come by.
Choosing the right car for you
Below we’ve highlighted some of our top choices in a range of categories. These are our considered recommendations, but they won’t suit everyone. You should spend time ensuring that the model you choose has the space, style, economy, and performance you need.
Once you’ve drawn up your shortlist, call round dealers to book test drives, and put the car to good use. Make sure you, and anyone else who will be driving it, is satisfied and can find a suitable driving position behind the wheel.
Take the kids along to ensure they can get comfortable, too, and that it’s easy to get child seats in and out. And if you have hobbies with specific requirements, make sure the car is up to the job.
Top 10 best car deals this month
Scroll down below for our list of the best new car deals available right now, listed by category.
Best new car deals 2020
Best city car deals
Suzuki Ignis - £184 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Dualjet SZ3
- List price: £12,249
- Deposit: £1,250 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £184.06
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 6.9%Optional final payment: £6,155
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £7,876.16
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £14,031.16
It’s unquestionably the most left-field city car on sale, but there’s a huge amount to love about the Suzuki Ignis.
Its mini-SUV styling is very much in vogue, and unlike some rugged-looking models, it’s actually available with four-wheel drive, although the fuel-saving mild-hybrid system will be of more relevance to most buyers. The Ignis is nippy around town, cheap to run and well equipped on the whole. The trade-off is some slightly below-par materials, but those sitting in the rear will be too busy enjoying decent head and legroom to notice; the Ignis is far more practical than many city cars, helped in part by its sliding rear seats.
Kia Picanto - £198 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Kia Picanto 1.0 T-GDi GT-Line
- List price: £13,845
- Deposit: £2,000 (£1,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £198.28
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 3.0%Optional final payment: £5,134.67
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £9,138.08
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £14,272.75
The Kia Picanto is proof that good things do come in small packages. It’s close to the Hyundai i10 in terms of size and running costs, but for many buyers it’ll be the seven-year warranty that’ll lead them to a Kia showroom.
Yet there’s more than just reassurance on offer from the Korean firm’s smallest car. Most models are well equipped, but our top pick is the sporty-looking GT-Line, because it’s the cheapest model to come with the best engine in the range, the 99bhp 1.0 T-GDi petrol unit.
Other highlights include the plush Titanium Edition and rugged-looking X-Line models. Should you be on a tighter budget, there’s also a 66bhp 1.0-litre and an 83bhp 1.2, the latter offered with manual or automatic gearboxes.
Best supermini deals
Volkswagen Polo - £186 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 80PS EVO SE
- List price: £15,390
- Deposit: £2,000 (£1,250 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £185.93
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%Optional final payment: £5,046.30
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £10,738.71
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £15,785.01
The recipe for the VW Polo hasn’t changed much over the years: it remains one of the more expensive superminis on the market, and a step behind the likes of the Fiesta and Ibiza on handling agility.
That doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering, though. Go for our choice, and you’ll have a vehicle that’s just about fast enough, just about big enough for a small family, and comfortable enough to cope with the worst UK road surfaces.
The cabin remains a Polo strength, too. It’s not as plush as you might expect, but it is immaculately screwed together. If you’re picking a small car to do reasonable mileage, you could do far worse than this.
Renault Clio £217 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Renault Clio TCe 100 Iconic
- List price: £16,495
- Deposit: £2,000 (£500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £217.25
- Number of payments: 24
- APR: 0%
- Optional final payment: £8,781
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £7,214
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £15,995
Last November, the latest Clio beat the Fiesta to become our top supermini, and at the start of this year it secured its place by beating the new Vauxhall Corsa. Its interior design, quality and tech impressed us.
Our choice is the mid-spec Iconic, which boasts a seven-inch touchscreen, although that grows to 10 inches in range-topping models. While the Fiesta is more fun to drive, the Clio is quiet and comfortable. The engine range includes two 1.0-litre petrols, with or without a turbo, and a 1.3, while a 1.5-litre diesel is also on offer.
We like the turbo 1.0-litre, because it blends performance with efficiency; and it’s available with manual or auto gearboxes.
Best hatchback deals
Vauxhall Astra - £288 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Vauxhall Astra 1.2 Turbo 145PS SRi Nav
- List price: £23,800
- Deposit: £2,500 (£4,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £287.94
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £6,033
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £16,033.18
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £22,066.18
The Astra is arguably a more compelling proposition than it has ever been, thanks to decent tech and fresh engines designed to boost performance and fuel-efficiency.
Choose our favourite spec, with a 130PS 1.2-litre turbo petrol, and you’ll have more than enough pace, refinement and decent real-world fuel economy. Downsides? The cabin is functional and, in the most part, roomy enough, but it’s short on flair.
The warranty is a simple three-year deal when many rivals are offering five or even seven-year cover. This is less of a concern if you’re leasing or financing the car, the deals offered by Vauxhall on the Astra are some of the strongest around.
BMW 1 Series - £288 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW 118i M Sport
- List price: £27,230
- Deposit: £2,700 (£2,987.56 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £288.46
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £13,464.35
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £12,796.10
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £26,260.45
BMW broke its own rule by switching the 1 Series to front-wheel drive for this latest generation, but the brand has still managed to make its family hatch one of the best-driving cars in the class. If you’re wondering whether to pick the BMW, or its Mercedes or Audi rivals, the 1 Series is definitely the most fun out of the three.
The move away from rear-wheel drive has let BMW greatly improve the car’s practicality; the hatch has enough space in the rear for a pair of adults, although taller occupants might still grumble about headroom.
There’s a decent range of engines, but our pick is the 118i, a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol motor. It has enough pep to keep up with the 1 Series’ chassis, and an appealing three-pot burble.
Volkswagen Golf (Mk7.5) - £400 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI 150 Match Edition
- List price: £25,585
- Deposit: £2,600 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £400
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 0%
- Optional final payment: £8,985
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £16,600
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £25,585
Volkswagen recently unveiled the eighth generation of its iconic family hatchback, but there are still lots of the outgoing model knocking around and they represent some sensational value for money if you find the right deal.
It’s not as if the ‘old’ Golf is radically different underneath from the car that is replacing it; both use the VW Group’s MQB platform. While you won’t find fuel-saving mild-hybrid tech on a Mk7.5, you’ll still enjoy pretty frugal mileage and excellent refinement, helped by suspension settings that offer a superb blend of body control and comfort. The cabin’s a simple, functional masterpiece.
The petrol engines are all smooth, but for stellar low running costs (and a potential bargain, too) it’s hard to look beyond the 2.0-litre diesel motor.
Best estate car deals
Skoda Octavia Estate - £314 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI 150PS SE L
- List price: £25,880
- Deposit: £3,500 (£2,500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £314.23
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £7,758.90
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £18,268.81
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £26,027.71
Time is running out for the current Octavia Estate, but the impending arrival of its successor means that there are some stellar deals available.
It’s not as if you’ll be getting a duff car, either. While the next Octavia improves efficiency, interior quality and connectivity, it doesn’t really tamper with a formula that has made this Skoda one of our favourite estates. It’s a no-nonsense, practical tool that gets the job done better than its rivals, while also offering superior value.
For proper load-lugging ability, the 148bhp 2.0 TDI diesel is the one to go for. Get one in SE L trim and it could be all the car that you’ll ever need.
Mazda 6 Tourer - £403 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Mazda 6 Tourer 2.2D SE-L Nav
- List price: £28,395
- Deposit: £4,000 (£2,500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £403
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £9,225
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £18,508
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £27,733
The Mazda 6 is one of the oldest cars on this list – but it makes a solid choice as an affordable mid-sized wagon that’s decent to drive and offers low running costs.
The 6 Tourer could be a very appealing workhorse, in fact – with a hard-wearing but well finished cabin. Mazda’s petrol engines are keen to rev, but the obvious choice has to be the refined 2.2-litre diesel, which has 380Nm of torque.
You should play it clever on the trim levels, though. SE-L Nav has softer suspension than you’ll find on a Sport, yet while this also brings a little more body roll, we think it strikes a better compromise between agility and comfort.
Volvo V90 - £529 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volvo V90 D4 Momentum Plus
- List price: £40,465
- Deposit: £5,250 (£3,500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £529.14
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £15,468.38
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £24,299.04
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £39,767.42
There was a time when Volvo’s biggest wagon was simply the best load-lugger around. These days the V90 no longer leads the way for outright capacity, but it does appeal in many other ways.
Like the smaller V60, the V90 is based on Volvo’s SPA chassis. That means it’s packed with cutting-edge powertrain and safety tech – but in a car that can muster more than 1,500 litres of boot space if you fold down the rear seats.
The engine line-up is simple. While many buyers will be tempted by the petrol models, the 187bhp D4 four-cylinder diesel also has 400Nm of torque, which will give you pulling power to spare.
Mercedes E-Class Estate - £528 per month
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Model: Mercedes E 220 d SE Estate
List price: £40,834
Deposit: £6,500 (£0 contribution)Monthly payments: £528.10
Number of payments: 48
APR: 5.9%Optional final payment: £14,800Total to pay by customer if returning: £31,848.80Total to pay by customer if buying: £46,648.80
If you’re after an estate car for practicality above all else, then the Mercedes E-Class Estate ought to be at the top of your list.
The big wagon has a cavernous boot, with more than 1,800 litres of space if you fold the second row – Mercedes even claims a standard Euro pallet can fit.
The E-Class is more than just Wembley Arena on wheels, though. It has a great cabin, with luxurious finishes and an astonishing infotainment system.
On the road, the E-Class isn’t the most dynamic or involving estate, but the E 220 d SE is a refined cruiser that sacrifices a little body control in corners for a smoother ride; AMG Line adds a sporty touch.
Best compact executive car deals
Alfa Romeo Giulia - £355 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.2 JTDM-2 Speciale
- List price: £37,795
- Deposit: £6,999 (£4,250 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £355
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £12,867
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £23,684
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £36,551
Historically, compact executive buyers spend a lot of time at the wheel, so how their car handles is important, but it must also be comfortable and refined. The Giulia strikes a wonderful balance, thanks to its sharp steering, tight body control and responsive engines.
The diesel offers higher mileage-drivers low running costs – especially if you spend a lot of time on the motorway. Pre-2020 model year cars feel a little cheap in places, but there are bargains to be had if you can live with that.
BMW 3 Series - £389 per month
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Model: BMW 320i M Sport auto
List price: £35,465
Deposit: £4,409 (£2,721.37 contribution)Monthly payments: £388.83
Number of payments: 47
APR: 4.9%Optional final payment: £14,170.68Total to pay by customer if returning: £22,684.01Total to pay by customer if buying: £36,854.69
The BMW 3 Series is our favourite compact executive, and with good reason. It’s great to drive, cheap to run, and there are loads of engine and trim choices.
Whether you’re after a fuel-sipping diesel to cover long motorway journeys, or a plug-in hybrid capable of zero-emission electric running, this latest 3 Series really does cover all bases.
It also has a high-quality cabin, an intuitive infotainment system and enough space for all the family – few cars can tick quite so many boxes, in fact – and there’s even a Touring estate model for those who need some more space.
Before you buy, look carefully at how you’ll use the car, because diesel is no longer the default choice; the 330e hybrid is a fantastic all-rounder, although you need to be able to plug it in to make the most of its rock-bottom running costs.
Audi A4 - £426 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Audi A4 35 TFSI Sport
- List price: £32,425
- Deposit: £3,242.50 (£4,250 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £425.55
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £12,740
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £22,386.75
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £35,126.75
Cars like the Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class have played second fiddle to the fantastic 3 Series since it launched in late 2018. But that’s not to say they aren’t excellent all-rounders.
The A4 majors on quality and comfort, with a beautifully crafted cabin filled with technology. There’s no plug-in hybrid at the moment, but don’t let that put you off; the petrol engines are smooth and the diesels efficient; and because it’s an older model, there are some cracking deals on offer.
We’d go for a refined TFSI petrol model for its blend of performance and costs, and Sport or S line trim give you desirable goodies such as sat-nav and leather seats.
Mercedes C-Class - £530 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Mercedes C 220 d AMG Line
- List price: £39,245
- Deposit: £6,500 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £530.37
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £12,675
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £31,957.76
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £44,632.76
Few cars offer as much variation or choice as the latest C-Class. There are loads of engines – petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids – as well as plenty of trims to choose from.
Our top pick is the C 220 d in sporty AMG Line spec, which now uses a superior (when compared with its 2.1-litre predecessor) 2.0-litre diesel. If you can’t stretch to this higher trim, even the entry-level SE model comes with sat-nav, heated front seats, cruise control and a reversing camera. The man-made Artico leather is almost indistinguishable from the real thing, too.
The C-Class drives well, but has a more comfort-focused edge than its BMW 3 Series rival – although the same can’t be said of the storming Mercedes-AMG C 63 range-topper, which is a wild beast whichever way you look at it.
Best executive car deals
BMW 5 Series - £410 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW 520d M Sport
- List price: £42,140
- Deposit: £4,200 (£6,594 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £410.05
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £15,704.93
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £23,472.35
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £39,177.28
Few cars can hold a candle to the all-round abilities of the BMW 5 Series. Buyers get a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as plenty of trim and spec options.
No matter which you choose, you’ll be buying one of the finest-handling executive cars on the market, with sharp steering, brilliant composure and excellent refinement. BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is one of the most intuitive and feature-packed set-ups around, although a lack of Android connectivity options limits its appeal; those with an Apple smartphone are well catered for, however.
If you rack up big miles, we’d opt for the fantastic 520d, while those with a shorter commute could save thousands by choosing the 530e PHEV.
Audi A6 - £440 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Audi A6 40 TDI S line
- List price: £43,035
- Deposit: £4,303.50 (£6,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £440.12
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £16,801.25
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £24,989.14
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £41,790.39
You’d be forgiven for thinking there’s little to separate cars like this latest Audi A6 from rivals like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class. But in fact, they perform their given task in rather different ways.
The Audi’s biggest highlight is its beautiful interior; little in this class comes close to it for tech, luxury, refinement and ergonomics. It’s a really comfortable car to travel long distances in, and with a wide range of connectivity solutions, it’s easy to connect your smartphone, no matter which device you use.
The engine range comprises a variety of petrol and diesel options, with seemingly no weak link in the line-up. The 40 TDI is quick yet frugal, while a plug-in hybrid model will arrive later in 2020.
Jaguar XF - £531 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Jaguar XF D180 Prestige auto
- List price: £39,360
- Deposit: £5,020 (£1,800 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £531.46
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £10,931
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £29,998.62
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £40,929.62
The XF is a smooth performer, with a slick auto and a comfortable ride. Plus, much like the smaller XE, it’s rewarding to drive, with sharp steering and great handling.
The engines aren’t as refined as you’ll find in some of the XF’s rivals, while the car’s interior could do with an update, too; the XE’s revised infotainment set-up is far superior to the XF’s, while BMW’s iDrive puts the ageing Jaguar to shame.
And yet the big Jag is still a worthy luxury saloon, with bucketloads of badge appeal and a variety of trims to choose from. Bag a bargain and you’ll have an accomplished executive car that’ll look right at home in the company car park.
Best small SUV deals
Skoda Kamiq - £209 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Skoda Kamiq 1.0 TSI 95 SE
- List price: £19,135
- Deposit: £2,500 (£1,500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £209.23
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £7,952.40
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £12,333.81
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £20,286.21
The Kamiq is our favourite small SUV. If you’re after a compact crossover with loads of kit and room for the family, little else comes close. In fact, its blend of space and value ensures it’s one of the best all-rounders on sale – the fact you needn’t step up to the top-spec SE L to get plenty of desirable kit makes it hard to resist.
It drives well, is easy to manoeuvre, and wide-opening rear doors should ensure loading kids into the back is a doddle. Skoda’s Simply Clever mantra hits the spot once again.
Citroen C3 Aircross - £256 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Citroen C3 Aircross PureTech 110 Feel
- List price: £18,515
- Deposit: £2,000 (£1,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £255.96
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 2.9%
- Optional final payment: £7,312
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £11,214.56
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £18,526.56
If comfort is key, then there’s only one compact SUV for you. The C3 Aircross has more than a whiff of the sixties DS about the way it rides, soaking up urban lumps and bumps with ease.
The trade-off is that it’s not much fun on a country road, but if you spend most of your time in town or the motorway, then the C3 Aircross is a top choice. The three-cylinder PureTech petrol engines are a known quantity, and feature in everything from the Peugeot 308 to the Vauxhall Corsa; punchy and economical, there’s really very little not to like.
The Aircross’s interior is quirky, plus it’s light, airy and packed with kit.
Best family SUV deals
Skoda Karoq - £273 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Skoda Karoq 1.5 TSI SE
- List price: £23,880
- Deposit: £2,250 (£1,750 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £272.74
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £9,905.40
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £15,068.78
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £24,974.18
Few cars fit so seamlessly into family life as the Skoda Karoq. The compact SUV shape offers lots of space inside; clever touches like a removable waste bin and fold-down tables show the level of thought the brand has put into the car, while there’s comfortably enough room for five people and the 521-litre boot is vast. The wide range of engines include the 49.6mpg-rated 1.6 TDI and the 187bhp, four-wheel drive 2.0-litre turbo petrol.
Sure, there are more exciting cars in the class – both to look at and to drive – but judged in the areas that matter the most for a typical family car, the Skoda is the class-leader
BMW X3 - £399 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport Auto
- List price: £45,915
- Deposit: £4,499 (£8,161.48 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £399
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £19,601.31
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £23,252
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £42,853.31
Buyers looking for a premium badge on their family SUV could do worse than the BMW X3. It mixes a solid feel with fairly engaging handling – by SUV standards
– and the engine line-up is fantastic. The smooth four-cylinder petrol performs well, but it’s the torquey, frugal diesels that make the most sense here; while the six-cylinder 30d is a brilliant unit, the more affordable 20d is our choice.
A plug-in hybrid is also available, and if you keep it charged daily then you’ll hardly ever need to use any petrol. The X3 is beautifully built and boasts a brilliant infotainment system, while interior and boot space are among the class best.
Volkswagen Tiguan - £390 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI 150PS SEL
- List price: £32,570
- Deposit: £4,000 (£2,750 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £389.87
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £11,021.40
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £22,323.89
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £33,3456.29
The Volkswagen Tiguan doesn’t quite offer the same value for money as the other VW Group SUVs here, but it gives buyers the option of a more premium brand.
In SEL trim it’s a handsome SUV, while it’s well finished inside. It’s practical, too; both the cabin and boot capacity will easily handle a family of five – or seven if you go for the Allspace model. There’s possibly the most comprehensive petrol and diesel engine line-up in the class – including a twin-turbocharged diesel producing 237bhp – and it’s a refined, relaxing car to drive. But the Tiguan lacks the mild or plug-in hybrid options that some other rivals can offer.
Best large SUV deals
Nissan X-Trail - £332 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Nissan X-Trail 1.3 Dig-T 160 Acenta
- List price: £26,590
- Deposit: £2,654 (£2,750 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £332
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 6.0%
- Optional final payment: £8,885
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £18,590
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £27,475
There are more flexible rivals when it comes to seating and practicality, but current finance deals mean the X-Trail is one of the most competitively priced large SUVs on sale.
Nissan offers a five-seat layout if you wish, while the theatre-style arrangement of the seats means that even those in the back get a decent view outside, and wide-opening rear doors make it easy to get in and out.
In seven-seat mode, the storage space is lacking when compared to some rivals here, with a 445-litre space on offer once the back row is folded flat into the floor.
Hyundai Santa Fe - £464 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi 2WD Premium
- List price: £37,010
- Deposit: £4,500 (£3,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £464.40
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £16,186.48
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £21,218.40
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £37,404.88
There was a time when the Santa Fe was a dependable, rugged, but somewhat agricultural SUV. Yet this latest fourth-generation model is as handsome and refined as anything else in the class.
While some seven-seaters try to offer a sporty bias, the Santa Fe is set up for comfort. Its easy-going nature is a perfect partner for family life; something that the spacious, well finished cabin also contributes to day-to-day.
There’s a single 2.2-litre diesel option, so your only choice is which trim level. On the plus side, the hefty 440Nm of torque figure is more than capable of lugging around seven people and their luggage.
Best premium SUV deals
Porsche Cayenne - £569 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Porsche Cayenne
- List price: £58,530
- Deposit: £12,800 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £568.85
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 6.2%
- Optional final payment: £32,981.15
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £32,709.75
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £65,690.90
While big SUVs tend not to offer the last word in driving dynamics, the Cayenne is head and shoulders above its rivals when it comes to sports car credentials.
This two-tonne, high-riding machine out-corners many conventional saloons, with performance to match. Models like the Turbo offer scintillating straight-line speed, yet not every version will cost the earth to run: the e-Hybrid’s plug-in powertrain allows journeys of up to 30 miles to be completed on electric power.
Throw in one of the finest cabins in any SUV – plus a huge amount of space – and it’s no surprise that the Cayenne is one of the most sought-after SUVs on sale.
Lexus RX - £607 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Lexus RX 450h F Sport
- List price: £55,205
- Deposit: £6,000 (£2,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £607.31
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 1.9%
- Optional final payment: £28,080
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £27,255.85
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £55,335.85
Lexus likes to do luxury just a little differently to other premium brands. The space-age exterior of the RX 450h gives way to a beautifully crafted cabin that feels at least as sumptuous as any rival.
And while most of the competition is only just jumping onto the electrified bandwagon, Lexus has been at it for years. The RX doesn’t have a plug-in hybrid option, but the RX’s mix of electric motor and V6 petrol engine should return around 35mpg in everyday driving.
While the standard model is a strict five-seater, the extended RX L offers an extra pair of seats. However, rivals have much more space in the third row.
Volvo XC90 - £627 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volvo XC90 B5 D Momentum
- List price: £53,635
- Deposit: £7,000 (£2,750 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £627.15
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £20,109.38
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £37,103.20
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £57,212.58
Is there a more handsome premium seven-seat SUV than the Volvo XC90? Inside or out, the Swedish car quietly talks up its understated class in a way that few others in this class can deliver.
While it’s not quite as spacious inside as the Discovery, accommodation across all three rows feels sumptuous. In five-seat mode, the car has a van-like 1,007 litres of load space.
The recent addition of mild-hybrid tech has seen CO2 emissions drop a little across the range (we’d go for the diesel-powered B5 model), while the plug-in hybrid T8 delivers both sensational speed and the promise of tiny fuel bills.
Audi Q7 - £641 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Audi Q7 Sport 45 TDI quattro
- List price: £56,310
- Deposit: £5,631 (£5,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £640.68
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 6.4%
- Optional final payment: £24,401.25
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £35,742.96
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £60,144.21
A five-grand deposit contribution from Audi means that it’s easier than ever to get into a Q7. And there’s plenty to like: the ride quality and refinement are brilliant, while the handling is safe and secure.
You can pick from six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, plus the flagship V8 diesel-powered SQ7. Get a car with four-wheel steering if you can: it makes this big SUV remarkably easy to drive at slow speeds.
An update in 2019 introduced Audi’s latest infotainment tech, and the three-screen digital display looks fantastic. But, while the third row of seats will cater to adults on shorter journeys, the Q7 isn’t quite as spacious as the Discovery.
Land Rover Discovery - £710 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Land Rover Discovery 2.0 SD4 S
- List price: £47,745
- Deposit: £4,774.50 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £710.12
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £21,218
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £30,338.82
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £51,556.82
The iconic Land Rover Discovery is now in its fifth iteration, and this is arguably the most complete version yet.
Predictably for a Land Rover, the Discovery is incredible off road, traversing rough ground more capably than any car in this class has any right – or even need – to. Then, there’s its practicality: that boxy roofline might look ungainly, but it means the space in every row trounces almost any other seven-seat SUV rival. Drop the split tailgate and even seven-up there’s a respectable 228-litre boot.
But it’s the way the Discovery drives that impresses the most. On the road, it’s quiet, comfortable and surprisingly easy to manoeuvre for a car of its size.
BMW X5 - £781 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW X5 xDrive30d xLine
- List price: £59,294
- Deposit: £6,600 (£1,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £781
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £31,434
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £33,935
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £65,369
Arguably the BMW X5 is the car that began the premium SUV craze, and it has long held onto its spot near the top of the class. This latest model continues the trend, with the finest balance of ride and handling in the segment.
The X5’s engine line-up is more than a match for the chassis, too. Four, six, and eight-cylinder powerplants (the former available as a plug-in hybrid, the latter in the quick M models) mean that the X5 has a wide range to choose from. They’re all great performers, too, and matched to one of the best automatic gearboxes on the market.
The X5 is well finished inside, and it comes equipped with a brilliant infotainment system. While a seven-seat option is offered, BMW’s larger X7 is the better choice for buyers who want to carry six passengers.
Best coupe and cabriolet deals
Porsche 718 Cayman - £409 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Porsche 718 Cayman PDK
- List price: £47,700
- Deposit: £10,400 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £409.26
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 6.3%
- Optional final payment: £29,081.40
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £24,724.10
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £53,805.50
If you’re after a supreme driver’s car, it’s hard to look past the Porsche 718 Cayman, especially with some deals sneaking under the £50k mark. The entry-level Porsche hard-top packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged flat-four engine. While the exhaust note may not appeal to all, its performance certainly will. After all, this car can crack 0-62mph in just over five seconds. When you’re up to speed, the sublime chassis strikes an amazing compromise between handling agility and ride comfort.
The only way you can really go wrong with a Cayman is to start ticking too many option boxes, because things may get out of hand if you don’t show restraint.
Toyota Supra - £561 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Toyota Supra GR 3.0L
- List price: £52,695
- Deposit: £7,500 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £560.82
- Number of payments: 41
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £27,067.50
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £30,493.62
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £57,561.12
Toyota’s reborn Supra is a world away from the modified creations that made the nameplate famous in movies like Fast and Furious. But that doesn’t mean that the coupé is not a success.
Developed alongside the BMW Z4 convertible, the Supra has a decent chassis that feels well tuned for British roads. Plus the 3.0-litre six-cylinder motor is extremely smooth (perhaps even too smooth for a sports car) and has more than enough punch to make the Toyota a genuinely rapid thing; the 0-62mph sprint takes just 4.3 seconds.
Inside, there’s a slightly odd mix of some Japanese plastics with a BMW infotainment system and switches. But the Supra looks like nothing else on the road, and has just about enough driver appeal to swing the rest of the deal.
Ford Mustang - £642 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Ford Mustang Fastback 5.0 V8 GT Custom Pack
- List price: £45,210
- Deposit: £5,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £641.98
- Number of payments: 38
- APR: 7.4%
- Optional final payment: £23,193
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £29,395.24
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £52,588.24
It’s a modern car, but the Mustang still offers old-school muscle-car thrills mainly due to the characterful thud of its 5.0-litre V8 motor, which provides 410bhp and 530Nm of torque, enough to take Ford’s icon to 155mph with relative ease.
Around the corners, the Mustang doesn’t try to be something it’s not, so the handling is about enjoyment more than out-and-out pace. And the same can be said for the cabin, which is neatly finished, honest and surprisingly practical.
In particular, the boot is big enough to cope with the luggage for a long weekend away – precisely the sort of long journey where this relaxed GT is at its best.
Best hybrid and PHEV deals
Toyota Prius - £320 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Toyota Prius Active
- List price: £24,245
- Deposit: £2,425 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £319.52
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £13,162.50
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £13,608.20
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £26,770.70
The strengths of the Toyota Prius that make it so appealing to private hire companies are equally applicable to private buyers. This fourth-generation hybrid has a strong reputation for fuel-efficiency, especially in town, and its cabin is typically robust.
It’s the same story with the Toyota’s petrol-electric hybrid system, which is well proven; even the CVT-based transmission is more intuitive and refined than it used to be. The Prius is a car that will rack up the miles without complaint, and this latest version is far better to drive than its predecessors, too.
Look beyond the fuel-sipping tech, and the Prius is also a solid family car; the cabin can seat four in comfort and the boot is big enough for most needs.
BMW 530e - £479 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW 530e M Sport i Performance
- List price: £50,120
- Deposit: £7,195 (£7,743.96 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £478.65
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £16,690.55
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £29,691.55
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £46,382.10
On paper, the BMW 530e is designed to help company car choosers avoid too much Benefit-in-Kind tax. Its mix of four-cylinder turbocharged petrol power and a plug-in hybrid powertrain results in meagre CO2 emissions that could save users a chunk over more conventional options like the regular 520d.
But that doesn’t mean this car isn’t relevant – or appealing – to everyone else. The powertrain delivers 248bhp and 420Nm, enough for a 0-62mph time of just over six seconds. And the 5 Series is still the most involving big executive saloon to drive; only a slightly firmer ride reveals the 530e is heavier than a 520d.
Factor in a high-quality cabin, excellent practicality and – assuming you can plug the car in to charge it – the potential for considerable savings on fuel, and you can see why this is one of our favourite Fives.
Mercedes E 300 de - £591 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Mercedes E 300 de AMG Line
- List price: £50,275
- Deposit: £10,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £591.34
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £18,875
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £38,384.32
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £57,259.32
Mercedes has taken a bold approach to electrification across its range, and it has opted to offer a mix of fuel types in its hybrid line-up. One of the most significant models is the diesel-electric E 300 de. Plug this Merc in on a daily basis, and you’ll be able to do many a commute on electric power alone; the car can manage up to 34 miles without using its engine at all, in fact.
The difference that this car’s diesel engine brings is that, when you do end up making a long journey – one that goes beyond the hybrid system’s all-electric range – you’ll still be recording fuel economy comfortably north of 50mpg. That makes the E 300 de a fantastically efficient all-rounder – and one with all of the usual E-Class strengths rolled in.
Volvo XC60 T8 - £646 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Volvo XC60 T8 Twin Engine R-Design
- List price: £55,005
- Deposit: £6,500 (£2,250 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £646.29
- Number of payments: 42
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £25,296.38
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £33,644.18
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £58,940.56
Can a full-sized family SUV really be a king of efficiency? It all depends on how you’re planning to use the Volvo XC60 T8, which mixes a petrol engine with plug-in battery systems to deliver up to 400bhp.
As with any plug-in, charging is key, and if you regularly tackle short journeys, then the T8’s claimed battery range of 28 miles means you should be an infrequent visitor to your local petrol station.
The XC60 has plenty of good qualities, too – a nicely finished cabin, great in-car technology, comfortable seating for four adults and a boot that’s big enough for their luggage. All in all it’s a fantastically efficient and luxurious family SUV.
Lexus LC 500h - £987 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Lexus LC 500h
- List price: £78,150
- Deposit: £15,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £986.88
- Number of payments: 41
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £32,377.50
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £55,462.08
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £87,839.58
A commitment to electrification means that Lexus is slightly ahead of the curve for bringing the tech to niche models – as exemplified by the LC 500h, a big luxury GT that also happens to be a hybrid.
It works, too; the V6 petrol-based powertrain delivers 0-62mph in less than five seconds, but the Lexus works best as a cruiser, with its systems delivering longer journeys between fuel stops, and the beautifully finished and refined cabin helping to dial out the worst of a trip.
Downsides? Infotainment is still a mixed bag, and the transmission trips over itself if you try to hustle it. But the LC 500h still has plenty of charm.
Best electric car deals
Hyundai Kona Electric - £429 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Hyundai Kona Electric 64kWh Premium
- List price: £38,600Government grant: £3,500
- Deposit: £4,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £429.24
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £15,056.76
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £24,603.52
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £39,660.28
For many family EV buyers, the choice between a Kona Electric and a Kia e-Niro comes down to which they prefer the look of, how they prioritise space, and how keen the finance package is. While the Kona has more striking looks, the e-Niro is a little more spacious, and comes with a longer warranty. They’re identical mechanically and have 64kW batteries, although the Kona takes fractionally less time to charge.
Like the e-Niro, the Kona offers the possibility of one-pedal driving, allowing the driver to cycle through increasing levels of regenerative braking to the extent that round-town driving could render the brake pedal almost obsolete.
Kia e-Niro - £480 per month
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Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Kia e-Niro 4
- List price: £37,995
- Government grant: £3,500
- Deposit: £3,500 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £480
- Number of payments: 37
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £18,089
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £21,260
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £39,349
Perhaps no car can quite capture Kia’s move upmarket like the e-Niro, because, put simply, it’s one of the most impressive electric vehicles to date. Equipped with a 64kWh battery pack, it’s capable of a claimed 282 miles on a single charge, making it one of the most affordable long-distance electric vehicles on sale at the moment.
It’s a hugely practical car, with a big boot and plenty of room for passengers. You’ll need a little under 10 hours to top it up fully from a 7.2kW wallbox, and a 0-80 per cent charge takes 54 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger. These factors combine to make the Kia e-Niro a no-compromise family model, and the perfect choice for many buyers.
Audi e-tron - £699 per month
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Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Audi e-tron 55 quattro
- List price: £72,310
- Government grant: £3,500
- Deposit: £12,147.97 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £699
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £34,257.95
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £45,000.97
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £79,258.92
The e-tron is Audi’s first all-electric production car, but you wouldn’t know, because it feels like the full package. It roundly beats the Tesla Model X for comfort, refinement and build quality. While the Audi’s 249-mile range can’t quite match that of the Jaguar I-Pace, the e-tron can charge its batteries to 80 per cent quite a bit faster – as long as you’re using one of the UK’s handful of super-rapid chargers. It can accept 150kW charging – as fast as you can currently get.
On the road, the e-tron may not be quite as quick as a Model X nor as fun as an I-Pace, but the German EV glides over rutted tarmac. And its smart technology, like fully digital door mirrors and two big touchscreens with haptic feedback, makes the e-tron a joy to use.
Jaguar I-Pace - £746 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Jaguar I-Pace S EV400 AWD
- List price: £67,995Government grant: £3,500
- Deposit: £7,486 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £746.37
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £34,466
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £34,355.32
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £68,821.32
If you’re looking for a stunning, spacious EV that drives like a sports car, the Jaguar I-Pace is the only model in town. Part of the appeal is laid bare in its vital statistics: 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds, 396bhp and 696Nm of torque, plus a 90kWh battery. That’s not quite Tesla territory, but it’s not far off. It lands its killer blow when it comes to the alertness of its steering, and agility that a Tesla Model X simply can’t match.
The Jag’s visual drama extends inside, with a spacious, airy and beautiful cabin that’s loaded with technology. A 100kW charger will add 240 miles of range in 40 minutes, which increases to 85 minutes from a more common 50kW charger.
Best performance car deals
Honda Civic Type R - £319 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Honda Civic Type R
- List price: £31,870
- Deposit: £8,402.67 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £319
- Number of payments: 36
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £15,461.69
- Total to pay to by customer if returning: £19,886.67
- Total to pay to by customer if buying: £35,348.36
Honda’s Civic Type R is one of the more extreme hot hatches, fitted with a 316bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol turbo engine that takes it from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a frankly ludicrous 169mph.
Yet the Civic’s split personality is even more impressive than its performance. Thanks to adaptive dampers, when you’re not at a track day, this Type R (unlike its predecessors) calms down to the point where you could use it as your daily drive.
The cabin is hit and miss on plastics and infotainment, but the Civic has plenty of space for four adults, and a sizeable boot. For those after the outer limit of what a hot hatch can do, it’s a remarkable creation.
Jaguar F-Type - £577 per month
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BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Jaguar F-Type 2.0i 300PS R-Dynamic Auto
- List price: £57,060
- Deposit: £8,082 (£5,500 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £577.11
- Number of payments: 48 months
- APR: 5.9%Optional final payment: £23,736
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £35,783.28
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £59,519.28
Jaguar’s flagship sports car is going through a mid-life facelift at present, but that gives the buyer some terrific options.
The revised model has an updated cabin with the latest tech, but you might get a stellar deal on the older generation, and the option of the fabulous V6 engine. Either way, the F-Type mixes stunning looks with excellent handling; it laps up twistier routes, but offers enough comfort around town and on bumpier sections.
The V8 is properly fast in either pre- or post-facelift F-Types, but from the latest line-up of models we’d be tempted by the four-cylinder 2.0-litre version. It’s fast enough and feels even lighter on its feet.
BMW M2 - £633 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW M2 Competition Manual
- List price: £51,425
- Deposit: £6,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £632.61
- Number of payments: 47 months
- APR: 4.9%
- Optional final payment: £22,238.55
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £35,732.67
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £57,971.22
BMW’s M Division has a history of doing great things with the Bavarian brand’s smaller models, and the M2 Competition packs a twin-turbocharged straight-six petrol engine with 404bhp and 550Nm. That’s enough to take this coupé from 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds.
There’s more than raw performance here, though, because the BMW’s chassis is nicely set up for driver thrills. The M2 is well finished, seriously fast and incredible fun – everything that an M-car should be.
Porsche 911 - £677 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
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Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Porsche 911 Carrera PDK
- List price: £84,128
- Deposit: £18,500 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £676.75
- Number of payments: 35
- APR: 6.0%
- Optional final payment: £52,259.50
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £42,186.25
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £94,445.75
The latest generation of Porsche 911 is not just a sports car; after more than half a century of evolution, this stalwart is one of the ultimate all-round driver’s cars.
The recipe is familiar, of course, with a flat-six engine mounted beyond the rear wheels. But the chassis is now every bit as comfortable cruising along a motorway or doing a grand tourer’s work down a country B-road as it is shredding rubber on a track day. Heck, the 911 even has two extra (child-sized) seats and a fair bit of luggage space under the bonnet.
As with all Porsches, the key is to keep things simple. So our favourite 911 is the basic Carrera; it’s more than fast enough for the UK, and as long as you specify adaptive dampers, it’s comfortable too.
Best luxury car deals
Jaguar XJ - £549 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Jaguar XJ 3.0 Diesel XJ50 Celebration
- List price: £55,995
- Deposit: £13,822 (£6,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £549
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £16,025
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £40,174
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £56,199
The Jaguar XJ saloon is about to undergo a dramatic overhaul – it’s going all-electric – so now is a great time to grab a bargain on the outgoing model.
It may be one of the oldest cars in this shortlist but it can still compete. This is a Jaguar, so it’s the best car to drive here, with precise handling and great body control. The fabulous 550bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8 is able to exploit that wonderful chassis, too.
The more sensible 3.0-litre diesel is the best value, though, and it comes with a nice deposit contribution. But it may be worth looking at the long-wheelbase model – space in the rear isn’t the most generous.
BMW 7 Series - £716 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: BMW 745e M Sport
- List price: £80,950
- Deposit: £9,000 (£19,597.71 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £715.68
- Number of payments: 47
- APR: 3.9%
- Optional final payment: £24,663.90
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £42,636.96
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £67,300.86
BMW’s latest update to the design of the 7 Series may raise a few eyebrows but there’s no denying how good this flagship saloon is as a luxury car. It’s refined, comfortable and beautifully built.
The German firm also has among the most comprehensive ranges of plug-in hybrid models, and the 7 Series is one of its most advanced. The car uses its on-board mapping to manage the amount of electricity stored in the battery. If the system knows you’re heading into a city, for example, it’ll save energy so you can drive emission-free once you’re there.
The latest model also comes with an excellent dealer deposit contribution.
Range Rover - £867 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Range Rover SDV6 Vogue SE
- List price: £83,655
- Deposit: £15,558 (£3,000 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £867.21
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £35,369
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £57,184.08
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £92,553.08
Not many cars can boast a customer base that includes the Royal Family as well as Premier League footballers, but the Range Rover is one of them.
It’s also one of the few luxury cars on the market that is every bit as at home on the road as it is off it. Four-wheel drive, complex off-road systems and the raised ride height mean it’s one of the most accomplished and capable cars you can buy. Mind you, few owners ever really take advantage of such ability, though.
A plug-in hybrid recently joined the range, adding another layer of refinement to the driving experience, but the smooth and punchy V6 diesel is the one to go for.
Mercedes S-Class £1,131 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Mercedes S-Class S 350 d L AMG Line
- List price: £78,190
- Deposit: £12,000 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £1,130.50
- Number of payments: 48
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £22,475
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £66,264
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £88,739
Think of luxury cars and the Mercedes S-Class won’t be too far from the front of your mind. The saloon has been around for decades and it regularly sets the benchmark for what is expected in the luxury car class.
This latest model is the most advanced there has ever been and is the current Auto Express Luxury Car of the Year. The pick of the range is the S 350 d L AMG Line; more exciting and powerful engines are available but the six-cylinder diesel motor is punchy enough, effortless in its delivery, and supremely quiet – all essential traits for a true luxury car.
Lexus LS - £1,228 per month
09 Toyota Supra - front
BMW 7 Series - front
Mazda 6 Tourer front tracking
Volkswagen Polo - tracking
Audi A4 - front
BMW 3 Series - front
skoda octavia estate tracking front
Lexus LS - front
Kia Picanto - front tracking
Volvo XC60 T8 - best hybrid cars to buy
- Model: Lexus LS 500h
- List price: £74,750
- Deposit: £8,500 (£0 contribution)
- Monthly payments: £1,228.43Number of payments: 41
- APR: 5.9%
- Optional final payment: £25,200
- Total to pay by customer if returning: £58,865.63
- Total to pay by customer if buying: £84,065.63
Lexus has often been seen as a bit of an outsider in the luxury car class, despite having a rival for the Mercedes S-Class on sale for more than 30 years.
The latest LS is the most eye-catching the Japanese brand has made; angular headlamps, a gaping grille and intricate alloy wheels certainly give it presence.
The hybrid powertrain in the 500h makes it very refined at low speeds, but the CVT gearbox can get a little coarse once you up the pace a bit.
Nevertheless, the cabin is beautifully trimmed with leather, cool aluminium and brushed wood detailing.
Best new car deals 2020: top discounts online
The car deals above are official manufacturer prices. However for some of the cheapest new or nearly-new cars out there, you might be interested in using an online car dealer - so we've put together a list of deals from the top UK sites, including our sister site BuyaCar. Note that these deals only run for a limited time - make sure you double-check the prices using the linked sites.
Renault Kadjar 1.3 TCe GT Line: £265 per month (£1,000 deposit)
Kia Sportage 1.6 GDI ISG 2: £267 per month (£1,874 deposit)
Audi A4 35 TFSI Technik: £289 per month (£4,500 deposit)
Kia Stinger 2.0 T-GDi GT-Line: £364 per month (£2,594 deposit)
Alpine A110 1.8 Pure: £499 per month (£6,453 deposit)
You can check the latest discounts being offered online at our sister site BuyaCar.co.uk.
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