When shopping for your next set of wheels, there are a few questions you have to ask yourself: What do I need the car for? How much can I spend? And, do I want a new or used car? Answering these honestly allows you to make a buying decision that is less likely to haunt you down the road. After all, no one likes wasting money unnecessarily. If you're reading this article, you've answered at least two of these questions.
Related: What are the top SUVs under R350k known for fuel efficiency?
In this article, we're looking at used vehicles below R350 000. This is a considerable amount of money to work with, and there are many choices out there for you to choose from. Weeding these out for value for money and reliability is a little more difficult. However, with as much choice as this gives you, you may still have to work within tighter restrictions, most likely age. This can be both a blessing and a curse. Here's what you can expect.
Buying Considerations
Most consumers shopping in this price range will be looking to finance this vehicle. This means that to have the best chance at getting a favourable interest rate that still makes financial sense in the long run, the vehicle will have to be no more than 5 years old. This limits us to models registered in 2000 or newer. This also means that you may be able to find a vehicle with some warranty or even service plan remaining, adding to your initial peace of mind. R350 000 puts you at roughly R6 500 per month on instalments, using a traditional financing model.
In this price range, you can find reliable, value-packed offerings new off the showroom floor, but then you will be the owner who feels the brunt of the initial depreciation that all vehicles suffer from. Shopping for a used car negates this and gives you more value for your money. With that in mind, looking for a low-mileage demo vehicle that is perhaps a little newer is not a terrible idea. It may not have experienced the full effect of that initial depreciation, but it will bring some better-equipped models within your price range.
Don't be tempted to buy an older, premium, or luxury vehicle just because it's now at a price that you can afford. Many fall into this trap. Premium products come with premium service costs, and parts for an older luxury car will make your eyes water. Play it safe, and you won't be disappointed.
Vehicles to Consider
Here's our choice of vehicles with great local support, regarding dealership network and parts availability. These models are also known to be rather reliable, although it's worth keeping in mind that even a low-mileage example can be problematic if it hasn't been looked after—an inherent risk when buying a used vehicle.
In no particular order:
Crossovers
Toyota Corolla Cross
The locally manufactured Toyota crossover is a great buy, especially at this price point. You should be able to find a relatively low-mileage model, only a few years old, within your budget. Facelifted XS models have a better infotainment system than earlier models. We'd choose the 1.8 XS, but you can choose the colour.
Volkswagen T-Cross
The Volkswagen T-Cross is an excellent choice if you'd prefer something a little more European. This popular offering has a pokey, and frugal 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine and the same quality that you've come to expect from Volkswagen. We'd choose the manual version to help avoid the complications of the DSG gearbox down the line.
Toyota Urban Cruiser / Suzuki Vitara (Grand/Brezza)
The Urban Cruiser / Vitara collaboration has worked well for both manufacturers. The first-generation Urban Cruiser shares its platform with the Suzuki Vitara Brezza, while the newer, second-generation Urban Cruiser shares its platform with the latest Grand Vitara. Either model is a decent choice, and don't be scared to opt for the Suzuki over the Toyota. Most initial customers chose based on their nearest dealer; there's no reason you can't do the same.
Hatchbacks
If crossovers are not your style, or you don't need the additional space of a crossover, an uncomplicated, easy-to-park hatchback may be just the ticket! Here are a few that we would consider in this price range, not older than a few years.
Toyota Corolla Hatch
The Toyota Corolla Hatch is an agreeable option offering great build quality and a fantastic drivetrain. Don't let the CVT gearbox scare you off, it's been programmed to perfection and make traffic a breeze. Not too common at this price, but a great catch if you can find one.
Volkswagen Polo
You can get behind the wheel of a full-fledged Volkswagen Polo at this price point. This popular choice will never struggle for spares, but you won't need them. The Polo is reliable, robust, and won't break the bank when filling up.
Toyota Starlet / Suzuki Baleno
Once again, the badge-engineered siblings share the same underpinnings, which makes both fantastic options. Offering up a little more space than others in the segment, these two have a big-car feel, but at the price of a smaller car.
