Tesla Model 3
High-mileage Tesla Model 3s can already be found for less than £10,000, but you can pick up a well-maintained dual-motor Long Range, which can travel up to 348 miles on a full charge, for around £17,000.
Software glitches are common, and the build quality on early examples is poor, so check the standard of the paintwork and consistency of the panel gaps. Battery degradation is unavoidable, so charge to 80% where you can in order to boost longevity.
Bentley Bentayga
While the 600bhp W12 can now be found on sale for a smidge under £50,000, its 18mpg, £760 yearly road tax and significant annual servicing costs make it hard to justify in (relatively) conventional used car buying terms. The rich and characterful W12 engine suits the opulent Crewe-made SUV, but the silky-smooth 4.0-litre V8 diesel is by far the better buy and it produces the same amount of torque as the W12 anyway.
If petrol is more your thing, the 543bhp 4.0-litre V8 is widely available and, thanks to its cylinder deactivation technology, is surprisingly efficient. It’s not too expensive to tax, either. The diesel is cheaper to run (35mpg and £190 road tax), but just be wary of cars that have been used mainly for short hops, because EGR valve failures and clogged DPFs are common. Walk away if you feel any vibrations under load: this could spell issues with the dual-mass flywheel or the torque converter in the eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Supple ride comfort is one of the Bentayga’s hallmarks, so make sure the air suspension is free of any unusual noises and the adjustable ride height operates consistently; the struts can leak and can cost anywhere between £1200 and £2000 to replace.
Jaguar I-Pace
Value for money is high on the agenda when it comes to used I-Paces. Software gremlins and water ingress are its main foibles, and watch for dodgy charging ports refusing to unlock cables.
The I-Pace is one of the more engaging electric SUVs you can buy: it’s quick, poised and, thanks to adaptive suspension, comfortable. A to 200-250-mile real-world range is achievable, and the cabin is pure luxury, with high-quality materials and crisp touchscreens.
