Good value and well equipped, and a used one may still have some of Kia’s long manufacturer warranty left.
Watch out for: Check whether any warranty remaining is valid, which usually needs a full service history. Test DCT automatics carefully.
A roomy supermini with low running costs and a good reliability record.
Watch out for: Check the service history and test the clutch and gearbox.
The hybrid versions are economical in town and have a strong reliability reputation.
Watch out for: Test the CVT automatic for smooth behaviour and ask for the hybrid system’s service history.
The family crossover that started the trend, with a higher driving position and plenty of choice.
Watch out for: Check for warning lights, test CVT automatics carefully and check any diesel for DPF problems.
Lets you buy a much newer car for the money, with low running costs and simple mechanicals.
Watch out for: The interior is basic, so make sure you are happy with the spec. Check the service history.
Stylish, comfortable and economical, with a modern-feeling interior.
Watch out for: Some PureTech petrol engines have well-documented timing belt issues, so check the belt has been serviced on time.
A practical family SUV, often found with a high spec at this price.
Watch out for: Check the service history and that any remaining warranty is still valid.
How to choose at this price
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Warranty left: some Kia and Hyundai models may still have manufacturer warranty at this price. Ask for proof and check what it needs to stay valid.
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Finance risk: cars in this budget are often only a few years old and may still have finance on them. Run a finance check before paying. •
Insurance: get a quote on the exact registration before you commit. Our guide to car insurance groups explains how groups work. Checks to run before you buy any of these
A good model can still be a bad car. Whatever you pick from this list, the history of the individual car matters more than the badge.
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Run the registration through a free vehicle check and make sure the make, model, colour and year match the advert. 2.
Read the MOT history for mileage that rises steadily and for advisories that keep coming back. See how to check MOT history. 3.
Check for outstanding finance, write-off and stolen markers with a full report before you pay anything.
4.
Match the V5C to the seller and to the VIN on the car. Our V5C guide shows what to look at. 5.
Take our free used car checklist to the viewing so you do not miss anything on the test drive. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best used car for £10,000? For most buyers, a family hatchback such as a Golf, Focus or Octavia gives the best mix of space, comfort and running costs. If you want a higher driving position, look at a Qashqai or Sportage.
Can I get a hybrid for £10,000? Yes. Toyota Yaris hybrids are often found in this budget. Check the hybrid system’s service history and test the gearbox.
Is a newer car always better? Not always. A slightly older car with a full service history can be a better buy than a newer one with gaps or a history of damage.
Which CarVerified report covers this?
The cars on this list are popular, which also makes them common on finance and common in insurance write-off records. Silver Plus adds the finance check, and Gold is the most complete report.
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Free check: start with the free vehicle check for the make, model, colour, year and MOT and tax status. •
Silver: the core vehicle history check. Finance is not part of Silver, but it can be unlocked separately. •
Silver Plus: adds the outstanding finance check, which matters on any car that may have been bought on PCP or HP. •
Gold: the most complete report, adding ex-taxi, salvage and valuation checks. See all our lists in best used cars UK, or go straight to the best used cars under £5,000, best first cars under £5,000, best automatic cars under £10,000, best family cars under £15,000, best reliable diesel cars, best reliable petrol cars, best used hybrid cars, best used EVs.