Buying a car is a major financial decision for any household, and it's unsurprising that used car sales are on the up as many families look to get better value for their money.
Choosing a used car over a new car can often mean a higher-specification, a more spacious, and/or more premium car is in an affordable price range that won't stretch your budget so far.
We've picked out some of the best family-friendly used cars you can find for under £20,000 at Vertu – cars that have the practicality you need to cart around the kids, as well as offering comfort and bang for your buck.
There has never been a better time to buy a used electric car from Vertu.
Between 6 – 16 November, Vertu’s Used Car & Van Event assures £500 off every Vertu used car and van, and £500 more for your part-exchange on top of the vehicle valuation you receive from us.
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Ford Puma
The Ford Puma - as the UK’s best-selling car - simply had to top this list. Its mild-hybrid EcoBoost engines help boost fuel efficiency, making it cheaper to run and kinder to your wallet.
The Puma is also widely available across the used market, and thanks to Ford’s large dealer network, servicing and maintenance are straightforward and affordable.
If you're looking for style, the sporty ST-Line X models are frequently available for under £20k, often only a couple of years old.
Families wanting a more premium feel should keep an eye out for the plush Vignale trim; go slightly older and you can sometimes secure this luxury-leaning version well within budget.
Reasons to Buy a Used Ford Puma
Lots of specification choice, compact yet among the most spacious small SUVs in its class, excellent ride and handling balance, availability
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Vauxhall Mokka & Vauxhall Frontera
Another UK favourite, the Vauxhall Mokka offers excellent choice with Mk.I models now available at a great value price tag, while the Mk.II remains one of the most striking looking cars on UK roads.
Many come in the eye-catching GS trim, which adds sporty styling and plenty of equipment. The Mokka is a great all-rounder for younger families. There’s solid boot space, good in-cabin storage, and enough size to comfortably manage both school-run duty and weekend trips, without feeling bulky in town.
Better yet, if you need more practicality, the Vauxhall Frontera (pictured above) is an excellent family friendly alternative with its boxy profile allowing for plenty of interior room, plus even the option of seven seats.
Indeed, whether you prefer a petrol engine or want to take your first step into electric motoring, there’s an abundance of used Vauxhall Mokkas and used Vauxhall Fronteras for under £20k.
Reasons to Buy a Used Vauxhall Mokka or Vauxhall Frontera
Mokka Mk.I represents excellent value and comfort, while Mokka Mk.II is a stylish alternative to more humdrum small SUVs. Vauxhall Frontera is very spacious and a lot of car for the money
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Peugeot 3008
If space is high on your priority list, the Peugeot 3008 is a standout choice for its classy looks, quality interior and comfortable driving experience.
The striking exterior design still turns heads to this day, while the innovatively laid out interior means the 3008 delivers a lot of car for your money.
Under £20k, you’ll find petrol, diesel, and even plug-in hybrid options, with many models only a couple of years old.
As one of the larger SUVs in this price bracket, the 3008 offers excellent practicality. Its 591-litre boot provides ample room for buggies, sports kit, or a family’s worth of luggage, whilst the cabin feels both modern and spacious.
Reasons to Buy a Used Peugeot 3008
Still one of the most stylish SUVs on the market, quality interior design wraps around you, plenty of powertrain choice
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Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a popular choice among families looking for a reliable and spacious family SUV that handles the rigours of day-to-day life with aplomb.
The stylish design has certainly aged, while the Tucson is very roomy with up to a 620-litre boot - ideal for growing households who need comfort as well as functionality.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a used Tucson is Hyundai’s five-year warranty, one of the most generous on the market.
Many used models will still be covered, giving families extra peace of mind and helping protect against unexpected repair costs.
Alternatively, if you're looking for an even better deal on a Hyundai SUV, the Hyundai Kona is available with electric or hybrid power, while it is also spacious and well-equipped in its class.
Reasons to Buy a Used Hyundai Tucson
Immensely practical with a huge boot and lots of room in the rear, well-equipped specification across the range, nearly new models will still have some manufacturer warranty
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Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf is a long-standing family favourite, which means there is plenty of availability in this evergreen hatchback.
What it loses in the height and ruggedness of the SUVs in this ranking, the Golf is more dynamic as a result with a driving experience that is as involving as it is refined.
Being a Golf, it is perfectly suitable for family life - especially for those who regularly navigate city streets or prefer a more compact, easy-to-park vehicle.
Under £20k, it’s common to find low-mileage examples in the well-equipped Life trim, choosing a slightly older model, the sought-after sporty R-Line also becomes accessible within this budget.
Reasons to Buy a Used Volkswagen Golf
Classic design will always be timeless, comfortable and excellent quality, feels premium, lots of choice to suit your budget
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- Vauxhall
- Ford
- Used Cars
- Peugeot
- Hyundai
- Volkswagen