10 European Cars That Are Better To Buy Used
Buying a foreign-made vehicle can be a little daunting for some domestic car buyers who know they want a model or brand but cannot figure out which would be the best fit for their life and their budget. If you are one of these potential car buyers, there is some good news, especially if you are looking for a European-made vehicle. In short: Try buying one that is used.
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“Certainly, navigating the market for European-manufactured vehicles can be quite beneficial when you choose to buy used rather than new,” said Joe Giranda, the director of sales and marketing at CFR Classic. “There are several reasons why opting for a pre-owned model might be more advantageous, mainly due to significant depreciation, the availability of aftermarket upgrades, and often a better overall value.”
With plenty of options and countries to choose from, here are 10 European cars that are better to buy used as opposed to new.
Audi A4
This luxury sedan combines elegance with performance, but it depreciates quickly, according to Giranda, who pointed out that buyers of a “new Audi A4 can lose up to 40% of its value within three years.”
Example: The 2024 Audi A4 has an MSRP starting at $41,900, but you can buy a 2020 model for as little as $23,000, according to Edmunds.
“Purchasing a used A4 allows you to enjoy the premium features and refined driving experience without bearing the brunt of its steep initial depreciation,” Giranda said.
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Volvo XC60
“Known for its stellar safety ratings and durability, the XC60 also suffers from high depreciation in the first year, similar to many luxury vehicles,” Giranda said.
Giranda went on to say that buying a used Volvo XC60 allows you “to benefit from Volvo’s robust build quality at a significantly reduced cost.”
The 2024 model starts at $46,000, but you can buy a 2018 XC60 for under $25,000.
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Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is a luxury SUV that gets points for a roomy interior, advanced onboard tech features and a driving experience that’s smooth as can be. Just make sure you do not buy one new.
“Buying a used Q7 can be a smart choice, as these SUVs depreciate quickly in the first few years, allowing buyers to get a high-end luxury vehicle at a more affordable price point,” said Carl Rodrigeuz, the founder and owner of NX Auto Transport.
Additionally, used Q7s often come with a certified pre-owned warranties, providing peace of mind for buyers.
The 2024 model has a starting MSRP of around $60,000, but you can get a 2019 Q7 for half that.
BMW 3 Series
“A hallmark of performance and innovation, the BMW 3 Series is less about affordability when new due to its high depreciation rate,” Giranda said.
Instead, Giranda advised that potential BMW 3 series buyers should try opting for used models.
“You can enjoy this vehicle’s superb handling and advanced technology for much less than its original price,” Giranda said.
A 2024 model starts at about $45,000, but you can get a 2021 for under $30,000, according to Edmunds.
Porsche Cayenne
Ben Michael, the director of auto at Michael & Associates, called the Porsche Cayenne a “great luxury SUV, but you can look for year models between 2003 and 2010 to avoid paying top dollar for the vehicle.”
There is good reason for that, too, as Porsche has upheld its reputation as a higher-end European car manufacturer, in Michael’s professional opinion.
“Their foray into SUVs is arguably the pinnacle of that body style,” Michael said, noting that buying a used Cayenne “will get you all the luxury of owning a Porsche, without having to sacrifice room, function or price.”
A 2024 model starts at around $79,000, and you can get a 2008 model for $21,000, according to Edmunds.
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Volvo V60 Cross Country
One of the most popular car brands from Europe is Volvo, but the V60 Cross Country is the second time the manufacturer has ended up on this list.
“The Volvo V60 Cross Country is a rugged yet refined wagon that offers a comfortable ride, upscale interior and standard all-wheel drive,” Rodriguez said.
“Buying a used V60 Cross Country can be a great value, as these wagons are known for their reliability and safety features and can offer a unique blend of versatility and luxury at a lower price point than when new.”
A 2024 model starts at around $50,000, and you can get a 2020 V60 for under $25,000, according to Edmunds.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
If you are looking for a luxury vehicle that also provides comfort, you might be intrigued by the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which stands as a symbol for European manufacturing of the highest degree. The only problem is that it is also getting a bad reputation for high depreciation as well.
Giranda said, “Buying a C-Class used is a wise decision because you can acquire a luxurious, feature-rich car at a price that’s more aligned with your budget after its value drops significantly in the first few years.”
The 2024 model starts at $80,000, and you can get a 2021 for under $34,000, according to Edmunds.
BMW X5
“Buying a used X5 can be a wise decision, as these SUVs hold their value well and offer a high level of performance and luxury at a more affordable price point than when new,” Rodriguez explained.
That’s because the BMW X5 is an SUV that is peak luxury, providing a refined interior, up-to-date features with its onboard tech and driving experience that Rodriguez called “sporty.”
Additionally, Rodriguez noted that “used X5s often come with a certified pre-owned warranty, providing added peace of mind for buyers.”
A 2024 model starts at about $65,000, and you can get a 2017 for under $25,000, according to Edmunds.
Mercedes Benz E-Class
“The great thing about many European cars is that their quality means they make great used cars,” Michael said. “The downside, of course, is their ticket price is brand new. To avoid that, you can still get a luxury auto, without the new car price, when you buy one used.”
He called the Mercedes Benz E-Class “a great choice for a used vehicle.”
“Buy any of the years between 2003 and 2009 and you’re going to have a great vehicle,” he added. “You will have to sacrifice a few of the amenities that we’ve all grown accustomed to these days, like Apple CarPlay, but you’re still getting a luxury vehicle for a non-luxury price when you look for these year models.”
A 2024 model starts at around $57,000, and you can get a 2009 for under $9,000, according to Edmunds.
Volkswagen Golf
Perfect for everyday use, the Golf is practical yet fun to drive, according to Giranda.
A 2024 Golf GTI starts at around $32,000, but you can buy a 2021 for under $18,000, according to Edmunds.
“New models can be pricey, especially with added features,” he said. “However, purchasing a Golf used ensures you get a reliable, well-equipped vehicle for a fraction of the cost, as Volkswagens hold up well over time.”
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