Best British used cars to buy for under £10k in 2025 revealed including iconic Jaguar and soft top roadster
THE best British used cars to buy for under £10,000 in 2025 have been revealed in a definitive list.
The guide, compiled by experts at Autocar, included motor icon Jaguar among other big name brands as it gave Brits the best options when purchasing second hand cars.
Range Rover Sport 5.0 Supercharged (2009-13)
This luxury performance SUV boasts a great price when bought second-hand.
The Range Rover Sport 5.0 Supercharged is the most powerful of the first-generation Sport models.
It can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.9 seconds – while also being a comfortable ride with its cozy and first-class interior.
The model can be picked up for just under the price limit, with the lowest used car being priced at £9,990.
Shoppers should look for supercharger noises, a broken water pump, irregular tyre wear and underbody damage when searching for the car in a used condition.
Jaguar S-Type R (2002-07)
This stunning rear-wheel-drive motor can also be picked up for a bargain.
The Jaguar S-Type R (2002-07) boasts 395bhp and can reach up to 155mph.
It was originally Jaguar’s answer to the domination of German super-saloons in the early 2000s.
It is a worthy competitor of the E39 BMW M5 – the prices of which start where the Jaguars leave off.
Its subtle looks come with serious power and can be found at a reasonable price of just £8,795.
Punters should look out for rotting sills, faulty electrics or supercharger rattles when trying to find the best deal.
MGF (1995-2002)
Another second hand bargain comes in the form of this affordable mid-engined rag-top.
The MGF (1995-2002) is known for its engaging handling and soft riding experience.
It got a new makeover in 1999, offering 110bhp, 118bhp and 145bhp outputs.
The iconic driver went on to become one of Britain’s best-selling convertibles – and can now be seen priced at just £1,250.
Bargain-hunters should look out for hydragas suspension and head gasket leaks, underbody corrosion, or steering issues when getting the best offer.
Land Rover Freelander 2 (2006-15)
This roadster boasts a strong, practical as well as comfortable design for drivers looking to get a great deal.
Used models of the Land Rover Freelander 2 (2006-15) are one of the best deals UK car-shoppers can go for.
Its practical features allows drivers to try off-road terrain, and also has high-tech chassis systems.
These include on-demand four-wheel drive and its handy Terrain Response.
Punters should look out for 2012 models as the ideal ones to pick up second-hand – and they should also look out for wonky steering and underside damage.
They can be picked up for as low as £8,500.
Lotus Elan SE (1989-92)
This retro convertible is yet another great deal for Brit car-shoppers looking for an amazing used vehicle offer.
The Lotus Elan SE (1989-92) boasts 163bhp in its turbo version, packing a punch despite its sleek appearance.
The model also has an S2 form from 1994-1995.
A classic British roaster with a front-wheel-drive layout, this Lotus model can get from 0-60mph in around 6.5 seconds and reaches top speeds of 137mph.
The underrated car can be snagged for just £5,975 at its cheapest, and shoppers should look out for a worn-out composite body and interior.
Mini Paceman (2013-16)
This ambitious design by Mini is a three-door, coupé style version of the Mini Countryman.
The Mini Paceman has a chunky design and sporty features which looked to draw in style-conscious shoppers.
The focus on style meant less headroom in the rear, as well as a smaller boot than the Countryman.
It has sharp steering and a go-kart feel, similar to other Mini models – but its limited demand meant it was axed by 2016.
Now it can be picked up second-hand for just £6,450 – and punters should keep an eye out for missed oil changes, worn brakes and peeling decals.
Mini MK1 (2001-06)
And this extra Mini model has also proved to be a great deal when bought used.
The Mini MK1 (2001-06) is size-wise, closest to BMC’s original design.
The new version of the classic car is a bold reinvention, still featuring go-kart handling and a premium feel.
The Cooper S is the best version of this car, so shoppers should look out for this one if possible.
They should also look for cabin damp and gearbox noises when scouting for the model which can be priced at just £4,500.