With the advances in automotive technology over the last 20 years or so, it’s never been easier to buy a used car that’s incredibly affordable yet also offers advanced safety features for the price tag. 

You’re able to go back over a decade and find a car that was manufactured pre-2010 that’s still in great condition with plenty of mod cons despite having a higher mileage. Given the wealth of options on the used car market, many people are opting to buy secondhand rather than shell out for a new model or enter into a deal with a hefty finance fee. 

With a simple vehicle check, you’re quickly and easily able to determine a vehicle’s health and history and pick yourself up a potential bargain, both online and from dealerships. To help you get a head start, we’ve put together some of the most reliable used cars to buy in 2023, with models spanning the hatchback, saloon and SUV categories. 

Best used 'class A' car: mini car

Hyundai i10

Who said buying a small car means you have to compromise on comfort and features?! Despite being small enough to squeeze into the tiniest of parking spaces, the Hyundai i10 comes very close to being the perfect city car.

The i10 is comfortable, economical (managing around 50mpg) and well-equipped with modern essentials such as remote control locking, all round electric-windows, cruise control and air con. Not to mention the boot is among the best of any city car.

Best used 'class B' car: small car 

Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa

The Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa are two of the country's best-selling cars of any sort, which means there'll be plenty of them - in prime condition - available on the used car market for you to choose from. Despite their small size, both are very versatile and come in a range of models that offer something for just about everyone. Which one is right for you though depends on what you want from a car. 

Ford Fiesta - costs less to run, famously great to drive, with snappy handling and plenty of power for its size, has a better infotainment system.

Vauxhall Corsa - more affordable, electric Corsa-e adds a Zero emissions option that the Fiesta doesn't offer and is better equipped with heated seats, steering wheel and parking sensors on specific models.

Best used 'class C' car: medium-sized car

SEAT Leon

Though many car owners will opt for more premium manufacturers such as Audi or Volkswagen, you can get a much nicer looking car for much less from the often overlooked Spanish manufacturer, SEAT. A superb all-rounder that's both affordable and a bit sporty, the SEAT Leon is a comfortable, roomy hatchback with an overall performance that sets it apart from most other small family cars.

Best used 'class D' car: large car

Skoda Superb

Skoda cars tend to be more comfortable, more cost-effective and more practical than many of its rivals and that's certainly the case with the Superb Estate. There aren't many saloons that come close to the dimensions on offer in this exec motor, not to mention its 660 litre boot - which expands to 1950 litres with the seats down - into which you can pack whatever you need. 

In short, the Superb is a large family car that is solid, reliable and comfortable. So, for those after the feel of a premium car but at a much lower price tag than an Audi or BMW, it doesn't get much better than a Skoka Superb.

Best used 'class E' car: top class cars

Audi A4

The Audi A4 continues to live up to its award-winning reputation, and is still one the best executive cars you can buy, new or used. From its comfortable ride to cutting-edge tech, the A4 proves to be excellent value for money. It stacks up well against pricier models from its German cousins, BMW and Mercedes, offering a luxuriously spacious interior and plenty of punchy engine choices too.

Not to mention it recently underwent a face-lift, which means that the price of older generations is only going to get cheaper - the perfect time to pick up an executive saloon at a bargain price tag.

Best used 'class F' car: luxury car

BMW 7 Series

The BMW 7 Series is another car that was updated in 2022, so the used car market is a great place to get a deal on older generations. As you'd expect from a car of this calibre, the 7 Series combines superior dynamics and precision with exclusive luxury. From its immaculate and efficient engine to its beautifully designed and perfectly finished interior,  the 7 Series is as close to luxury as you can get.

Best used 'class J' car: SUV vehicles

Volkswagen Tiguan

A proper all-rounder with a spec for everyone, it's easy to see why the Volkswagen Tiguan is the German brand's best-selling model worldwide. With over six million shifted since it was first launched in 2008, the Tiguan mixes a premium feel with family-friendly practicality and a comfortable driving experience. And, is also cheaper than premium-badged alternatives, including the BMW X1.

Best used 'class M' car: MPV

Kia Sorento

Last but not least comes the Sorento from Kia, the South Korean manufacturer that offers unparalleled quality and long warranties for their low price tags. For around half the price of its European competitors on the secondhand market, the Kia Sorento is a seven-seat MPV with a 2-3-2 layout that delivers impressive power and efficiency, an exhilarating driving experience and bags of interior space. What’s more, pick up a Sorento that’s two years old or younger and you’ll still get to enjoy Kia’s very generous seven-year warranty. 

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So there you have it, our best and most reliable used cars you can buy in 2023. But remember, when purchasing any used car, always run a vehicle check before you sign on the dotted line to make sure that the vehicle you're buying hasn't been stolen, written off or has outstanding finance.

For more motoring advice and information on all things used cars, check out our Blog.