Latest news with #Parkers
The Irish Sun
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
I'm a car expert – here's the BEST used electric cars you can buy for under £10,000 on Sun Motors
A CAR expert has revealed the best used electric cars that you can buy for under £10,000. 6 A car expert has revealed the best used electric cars that you can buy for under £10,000 These are the electric cars that won't break the bank, and are all available on Sun Motors. What is Sun Motors? The marketplace links reputable and trusted dealerships to deliver a smooth and hassle-free car-buying journey from beginning to end. Featuring cutting-edge tools and services such as an AI chat bot on hand to answer any queries about specific cars, the platform simplifies the process of discovering and buying your perfect car. Start your search for your next used vehicle Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace * Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help , get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds Renault Zoe (2012-present) 6 According to Renault, the Zoe has a battery range of 239 miles Credit: Renault Model: Renault Zoe Parkers say: "The Renault Zoe has long been a popular choice for those wanting an affordable and capable small electric car." "The Zoe is also practical, pleasant to drive, and sensibly equipped." According to Renault, the model has a battery range of 239 miles, which should be fine most people's everyday needs. Kia Soul EV (2014-2019) 6 The Soul comes with plenty of kit, including climate control, heated seats and cruise control Credit: KIA Model: Kia Soul EV Parkers commented: "The distinctive Kia Soul is often overlooked in the used electric car marketplace. "It's a good buy if you can find one, though, offering a range of up to 132 miles." And it comes with plenty of kit, including climate control, heated seats, cruise control, solar glass, a heat pump, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Find models starting from £136 per month Volkswagen e-Golf (2014-2020) 6 The Volkswagen e-Golf can travel up to 115 miles on a full charge Credit: Volkswagen Model: Volkswagen e-Golf The car experts claim that a Volkswagen Golf is always a pretty good shout when it comes to car recommendations, and similarly so if you're looking at used electric cars. They say: "The VW e-Golf is just like the conventional Golf, but it's electric – so as well as being smooth and quiet, it's also familiar, straightforward, and easy to live with." The battery of the Volkswagen e-Golf has a total capacity of 35.8 kWh - and a range of about 115 miles is achievable on a fully charged battery. Find models starting from £172 per month READ MORE BUYING A USED CAR Nissan Leaf (2011-2018) 6 The battery of the Nissan Leaf has a total capacity of 40kWh and an estimated range of about 145 miles Credit: nissan Model: Nissan Leaf Nissan is already on its second generation of bespoke electric cars when many other carmakers have only just launched their first, so you should be able to find one for less than £10k. The battery of the Nissan Find models starting from £78 per month BMW i3 6 BMW claims a range depending on options and equipment, of between 177 and 193 miles Credit: BMW Model: BMW i3 When it was launched in 2013, the The experts say: "The inside is a particular delight, but performance is great too, especially from the 2017-onwards i3S model. "Range varies, with the earliest cars managing only 120 miles per charge on their best day. But it still looks ultra-modern now, and as long as it's been treated well, the electric version should prove reliable." BMW claims a range depending on options and equipment, of between 177 and 193 miles for both i3 versions. This comes Plus, Find electric BMWs from £161 Buying a used car? Check out
Scottish Sun
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
I'm a car expert – here's the BEST used electric cars you can buy for under £10,000 on Sun Motors
LEAN AND GREEN I'm a car expert – here's the BEST used electric cars you can buy for under £10,000 on Sun Motors Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A CAR expert has revealed the best used electric cars that you can buy for under £10,000. Battery electric vehicles are often more expensive than petrol or diesel cars, but buying a used EV can help you save thousands of pounds. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 A car expert has revealed the best used electric cars that you can buy for under £10,000 These are the electric cars that won't break the bank, and are all available on Sun Motors. What is Sun Motors? Sun Motors is a pioneering platform transforming how people purchase used cars across the UK, crafted with customer ease and safety at the core. The marketplace links reputable and trusted dealerships to deliver a smooth and hassle-free car-buying journey from beginning to end. Featuring cutting-edge tools and services such as an AI chat bot on hand to answer any queries about specific cars, the platform simplifies the process of discovering and buying your perfect car. Start your search for your next used vehicle here. Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace *Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score , with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute , get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget , only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help, get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds here. Renault Zoe (2012-present) 6 According to Renault, the Zoe has a battery range of 239 miles Credit: Renault Model: Renault Zoe Parkers say: "The Renault Zoe has long been a popular choice for those wanting an affordable and capable small electric car." "The Zoe is also practical, pleasant to drive, and sensibly equipped." According to Renault, the model has a battery range of 239 miles, which should be fine most people's everyday needs. Kia Soul EV (2014-2019) 6 The Soul comes with plenty of kit, including climate control, heated seats and cruise control Credit: KIA Model: Kia Soul EV Parkers commented: "The distinctive Kia Soul is often overlooked in the used electric car marketplace. "It's a good buy if you can find one, though, offering a range of up to 132 miles." And it comes with plenty of kit, including climate control, heated seats, cruise control, solar glass, a heat pump, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Find models starting from £136 per month here Volkswagen e-Golf (2014-2020) 6 The Volkswagen e-Golf can travel up to 115 miles on a full charge Credit: Volkswagen Model: Volkswagen e-Golf The car experts claim that a Volkswagen Golf is always a pretty good shout when it comes to car recommendations, and similarly so if you're looking at used electric cars. They say: "The VW e-Golf is just like the conventional Golf, but it's electric – so as well as being smooth and quiet, it's also familiar, straightforward, and easy to live with." The battery of the Volkswagen e-Golf has a total capacity of 35.8 kWh - and a range of about 115 miles is achievable on a fully charged battery. Find models starting from £172 per month here Nissan Leaf (2011-2018) 6 The battery of the Nissan Leaf has a total capacity of 40kWh and an estimated range of about 145 miles Credit: nissan Model: Nissan Leaf Nissan is already on its second generation of bespoke electric cars when many other carmakers have only just launched their first, so you should be able to find one for less than £10k. The battery of the Nissan Leaf has a total capacity of 40 kWh, and an estimated range of about 145 miles is achievable on a fully charged battery. Find models starting from £78 per month here BMW i3 6 BMW claims a range depending on options and equipment, of between 177 and 193 miles Credit: BMW Model: BMW i3 When it was launched in 2013, the BMW i3 was an innovative breath of fresh air in the electric car industry. The experts say: "The inside is a particular delight, but performance is great too, especially from the 2017-onwards i3S model. "Range varies, with the earliest cars managing only 120 miles per charge on their best day. But it still looks ultra-modern now, and as long as it's been treated well, the electric version should prove reliable." BMW claims a range depending on options and equipment, of between 177 and 193 miles for both i3 versions. This comes after a car expert revealed how to repair a touchscreen covered in scratches for free using products you have at home. Plus, a legendary Ford Sierra RS Cosworth with super low mileage is set to fetch an eye-watering price at auction. Find electric BMWs from £161 here Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
Daily Mirror
18-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Police 'to stop cars on streets' as 120,000 of make 'potentially dangerous'
Manufacturer is writing to owners telling them their aidbags could go off at any moment - potentially while driving A car industry expert has revealed that police are not stopping drivers of certain cars on the streets - and telling them they shouldn't be driving. More than 120,000 of the cars which have airbags that could go off at any time are on the roads in the UK currently. Citroen is writing to people with C3s and DS3 because of the potentially dangerous airbag fault. And now it has emerged that police are stopping motorists in the cars - and telling them they need to get their vehicles fixed. Car valuation experts Parkers said it understood forces around the country were taking direct action and said: 'Police are now actively stopping drivers of affected vehicles, and this isn't scaremongering: there's a real risk of injury or death if a faulty airbag deploys.' Drivers of Citroen C3s and DS3s have been ordered to stop driving their cars over a potentially dangerous airbag fault. The vehicles affected are second-generation Citroen C3s produced from 2009 to 2016 and first-generation DS3s manufactured from 2016 to 2019. The French firm has issued a 'Stop-Drive' order after a recent report stated that a woman sustained fatal injuries caused by an airbag in a 2014 Citroen C3 in Reims, France, last year. As a result, around 82,000 C3 and DS3 models have been removed from the road across France. The vehicles use Takata airbag systems, which could be faulty. However, Stellantis UK said that there were no reported incidents of faults in the UK, but it has decided to take action regardless. The car manufacturer in a recent statement said: 'Stellantis UK is mobilising its full network of suppliers, retailers and manufacturing plant to support this action to ensure the fastest, safest and most convenient solution for each customer. Stellantis remains fully committed to acting swiftly, transparently, and responsibly in addressing this issue.' Owners will be contacted by letter, or they can check whether their car is affected by using the VIN check tool on Citroen's website. Citroen said: 'Stellantis UK announces an immediate stop-drive action for all Citroën C3 (second generation) and DS 3 (first generation) vehicles manufactured between 2009 and 2019 equipped with Takata airbags. Owners of such vehicles should immediately cease using their vehicle when safe to do so. 'Vehicles included in this new stop-drive action in the UK, were already part of an ongoing comprehensive recall campaign that started over one year ago, first in Southern Europe and then expanded northwards. Recall decisions, especially stop-drive actions, are based on multiple factors, including airbag specifications, vehicle age and usage, climate conditions, and notifications from regulatory authorities. 'Whilst there have been no reported instances in the UK, Stellantis has decided to deploy a stop-drive order for all impacted vehicles across Europe including the UK. This decision underscores the Company's unwavering commitment to customer safety. 'All affected customers will be notified by letter. Customers can also check if their vehicle is affected and what actions are advised by using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) check tool on the Citroën UK website below. If impacted, they should register their vehicle to enable the processing of their repair as soon as possible. 'If you are unable to register online, owners can contact our Recall Helpline on 0800 917 9285. Citroën Customer Care can also be contacted on 0800 093 9393.'
Scottish Sun
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
BMW 1 Series used cars: I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW is by far a standout
BARGAIN BEEMER BMW 1 Series used cars: I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW is by far a standout Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) OK, so 47 is an estimate, but I have driven a lot of hatchbacks, and the BMW Series 1 is a standout. The quintessential hatchback is, of course, the Golf, which in all its incarnations has delivered – but the BMW pips it, and I'll explain why. 4 I'd always associated BMWs with committed middle managers driving company cars. A few minutes behind the wheel of the BMW Series 1 M Sport changed all that. I'm not going to say that the VW Golf has had its day (or make a joke that the current version of the car is as unfashionable as the sport, as that would be cruel). But the BMW Series 1 does everything you need a hatch to do – but better than the others. What is a hatchback? A hatchback is a car with a large rear door that opens to create a large boot space. Hatchback cars are flexible. You can typically carry 4 or more passengers in comfort. When you need extra carrying space, you can lower the back seats. (Make sure the passengers aren't in there first.) The VW Golf pretty much defined what a hatchback is and what it does, and – despite what we've written above – we still love it. Reviewers know it still does the business, but the Golf spawned a whole lot of imitators – some of which are now ready to challenge for the hatchback king's crown. Most read in Buy NEED FOR SPEED I'm a used car expert, these are the top FASTEST selling cars I'd recommend Benefits of a hatchback Small, manoeuvrable, great handling Excellent visibility from the large rear window Sporty looks (especially souped-up variants, including GTI, M Sport, FR, etc.) Versatile, with space for 4 passengers and luggage Fold-down seats provide extra carrying capacity Perfect for families, city drivers or country dwellers BMW 1 Series: An overview When you're buying a hatchback, it's 50% heart and 50% head. It's got to look great and have the speed and performance you want. It's also got to be fuel efficient, reliable and – in these cash-strapped times – affordable. Let's work through the list. The BMW 1 Series looks, to me, fantastic. Looks are personal, so feel free to disagree. Parkers call it the best premium hatchback. The M Sport version goes above and beyond with 18' alloys, a rear spoiler and splitters, as well as a full leather interior and a beast of an engine. (Ticks box) It's hard to argue with performance. The majority of modern (post-2019) Series 1s are front-wheel drive with either a 3- or 4-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive makes more space for luggage at the back without impacting the driving experience, which is impeccable. (Ticks box) In-car entertainment and tech is top-notch, as you'd expect on a premium BMW. (Ticks box) It's not a class leader (and real-life returns will vary on your driving style, condition, etc.), but you can expect around 40mpg from an older Series 1. (Ticks box) The BMW Series 1 was one of only two cars that achieved a 100% reliability rating from WhatCar?. (Ticks box) Affordable? Check out this round-up of used BMW Series 1 cars for sale. Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors here. Used BMW 1 Series for sale Here are some of the BMW Series-1s for sale on Sun Motors that piqued our interest… Great value: BMW 1 SERIES 1.5 118i SE 4 Model: BMW Series 1 1.5 118i SE This 2018 BMW Series-1 isn't the cheapest on the market at £6,949, but represents something of a bargain. The mileage is low, with 65,000 miles half that of others on the market. The relatively low use shows up in the condition of the car, which is excellent. It's a well-presented car – and the good bits don't stop. The 118i SE model is a slightly more premium package (just below M Sport). The 138 bhp engine is a bit of a beast, but you'll still get almost 40mpg. (Check out the full specs on Parkers.) If we were looking for a great family runaround that would still turn a few heads, this would be a perfect choice. M Sport Monster: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport 4 Model: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport BMW M Sport is legendary, with better internal trim, external styling and engine. If you're buying a BMW, we all want that little badge, don't we? (Forget about the insurance premiums for a minute…) If comfort, acceleration and speed are important to you, then check out this BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport. Stylish? Absolutely. You'll get the better body kit, leather interior, and large alloys. It's a superb-looking car. Under the bonnet, the BMW has a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that will fly when you put your foot to the floor. Thinking with the head, it's a good price for a relatively new BMW Series-1 with just 61,000 miles under its belt. Go on, you know you want it. Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start *If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue Sun Motors is a seamless, straightforward, transparent platform that ranks by customer searches, not payments. It offers innovative financing and concierge services, ensuring a simple, fair car-buying experience. Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW Financing options Trusted dealers Get started finding your next used vehicle here. Latest model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive 4 Model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive We've gone for the super powerful and ultra-cool BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive. We're talking about 0-60mph in under 5 seconds. That's achievable because of the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that knocks out 301 bhp. Ouch. It's a 4WD car, which delivers good handling, traction and stability. The 2025 model here is the latest version with updated and improved external styling. This isn't your average motorway munching BMW, but a powerful sports car that's been somehow sanitised a little bit. Our choice is basically a new car with 100 miles on the clock. If you buy it, can we have a drive? Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars? The BMW 1 Series is the best in class for build quality, which means an ultra-reliable drive, which is vital for families. OK, things can still go wrong, but buy a good BMW Series 1, and you should be OK. Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
Scottish Sun
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Top 5 Best used cars for new drivers from a used motors expert
FIRST WHEELS Top 5 Best used cars for new drivers from a used motors expert JUST passed your driving test? It's time to get a car. We all know buying your first used car can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're doing it on your own. Advertisement 6 Don't worry! At Sun Motors, we're going to take you through our selection of some of the best-used cars for first-time drivers. When comparing the best used first cars, we've weighed up a range of factors, including safety and security, insurance, running costs and repairs. The models here are tried and trusted and should perform well as safe, secure and reliable runarounds. You want to hit the road, so let's start with finding five fantastic car deals for new drivers. Advertisement Top 5 best used cars for new drivers Here are 5 tried and tested cars that are ideal for first-time buyers. We've selected small cars with solid engines and engineering. They may not be the fastest or most attractive motors, but they're a great place to start on your car owning career. Cheapest to insure: Ford KA 6 MODEL: Ford KA Advertisement Insurance for new drivers is, quite frankly, bonkers – but not if you buy a Ford Ka. This popular city car is in the lowest insurance group (group 1-10, says Parkers), which means it's the lowest risk. Low risk = low premium. It's cheap to insure, but is it any good? Absolutely! The reliable, affordable and quirky Ford Ka is a great first car. It's economical to run, and the no-frills exterior and interior are perfect as you're highly likely to add a few dents, scratches and damage yourself. You can pick up a good quality 10-year-old Ford Ka for around £5k. Advertisement Dull but functional: Skoda Fabia 6 The Skoda brand name has been revitalised since its VW ownership, with the brand now known for dull but functional cars that last. The Skoda Fabia is a basic motor that's also in a low insurance group, meaning it's cheap to insure. Driving is more fun than you'd imagine, with a strong and solid engine and a leisurely ride. Advertisement We recommend new drivers go for third-generation models (2014-2021) with the 1.0 litre engine if possible. Prices for a bog-standard, 10-year old Skoda Fabia are around £3.5k and rising to £23,000 for a nearly new model. German precision: VW Polo 6 OK, so the older (2014-21) VW Polos and the Skoda Fabias share a common platform (PQ26) which makes them similar, but they're not identical twins. Advertisement The Polo is a bit more refined, with better handling and a finer finish. The driving experience is similar to a Fabia, with reviewers loving the 2009-17 version, praising its comfortable ride and classy looks. You might expect to pay a premium, but you can pick up a 2015 VW Polo for £3,500. Tiny tearaway: Fiat 500 6 Advertisement When it was launched, the Fiat 500 blew us all away. The micro-car is a 60s-inspired piece of design that's as evocative as the Italian job. Slide inside (if you can fit) and it's a surprisingly good drive. The short wheelbase and small overall size make it feel fast on the road. There's not much luggage space and carrying passengers will be a problem, but it's an ideal first car for urban motorists on a budget. Its popularity keeps prices down. Basic models of the Fiat 500 can be picked up for a little over £3,000. Small price and perfect for small driers. Advertisement Money-no-object: Mini 6 Who doesn't want a Mini? The BMW reboot of the Mini has created a brand new icon, and we love it. The 'modern' MINI is every bit as popular as the previous version, with almost 3000 for sale today on Sun Motors. When the car looks this good, who cares what it drives like? (Take our word for it, it's a fantastic car to drive and own.) Advertisement There are so many models to choose from, you could get lost for a long time. We recommend first-time drivers go for an older model, like this 2015 MINI Hatch 1.5 Cooper for a few litres of fuel under £5,000. MINIs will wrack up a lot of miles, so don't be put off by a model that's done over 100k. Instead, check the MOT history and service history, that's a better indication of how a car has been cared for and will perform. What is the best car for a new driver? Personally, I'd go for a Dacia Sandero - because that's what I drive. But I'm old. Advertisement If I were a first time car buyer, I'd try and find the perfect middle ground. That's going to be a great looking car that's fun to drive but cheap to insure and fill up. My personal choice for the best used car for a first time buyer would be the Skoda Fabia. If you can, take one out for a drive. It's surprisingly spacious, stylish to look at and well built. Go for one with low-mileage and a full service history. Why Sun Motors makes first-time buying easy Sun Motors makes buying a new car easy. The AI feature and sophisticated search function enable anyone to find the right car for them at the right price. Advertisement When buying from Sun Motors, you're dealing with dealers you can trust. All cars for sale have been checked over, with any faults or problems fixed. Dealers will also offer a warranty, giving you peace of mind for thousands of miles. Why would you buy from anywhere else? New driver car buying FAQs Car finance for new drivers: Can I get a used car on finance if I'm a first-time driver? Of course first time drivers can access finance – but only if you're over 18. Advertisement If you are, the amount you can borrow and the terms (including interest rate) will depend on your individual circumstances, including income, outgoings and credit history. Sun Motors makes it simple to check eligibility and affordability of finance. Our advice is to always read the small print and make sure you can manage all motoring costs, including car repayments, insurance, tax and (of course) fuel! How much is insurance for a new driver? New drivers can expect to pay £1500 or more for insurance, say finance experts Moneyshake. Advertisement The exact cost of car insurance depends on a huge range of factors, including your age and location, driving history, car make, model, age and value. Before buying a car, you can use comparison sites to compare insurance prices. Don't ever buy a car without knowing how much it'll cost to insure, or you could face a nasty surprise. What size engine can a new driver drive uk? If you've passed your test, you can drive anything you want – as long as you can afford to insure it. Our advice is to start with a small and safe car, then work your way up. Stats about new driver accidents are scary, so be safe and get a smaller car. Advertisement What to look for when buying a used car for the first time Check out our guide on what to look out for when buying a used car here. Safety – Always buy a car from a trusted dealer. Check out old MOTs and ask the seller if the car has been written off and returned to the road. Walk away if a dealer won't share this information. – Always buy a car from a trusted dealer. Check out old MOTs and ask the seller if the car has been written off and returned to the road. Walk away if a dealer won't share this information. Reliability – Being stranded by the roadside is no fun, so ensure the car has a full service history and all essential work has been done. – Being stranded by the roadside is no fun, so ensure the car has a full service history and all essential work has been done. Economy – Smaller cars use less fuel, so start small. – Smaller cars use less fuel, so start small. Size – Don't get a big car. New drivers are much more likely to get into accidents. – Don't get a big car. New drivers are much more likely to get into accidents. Cost of ownership – Consider the purchase price of the car and all running costs. Make a budget before buying a car. Are used cars as safe as new cars? Yes, used cars are as safe as new cars. Always check the MOT record and service history and, if possible, buy from a dealer. This will ensure your new used car is in the best condition it can be. Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
