Used Cars That Give More Bang Than Your Bucks
Since the beginning of 2020, car sales have been fluctuating in a new and interesting way. While new cars were still being purchased, the number of used cars being bought started to increase as more people started making financial decisions due to the effects of the pandemic. In this article, we will take a look at some of the used cars that have been favourites among many South African drivers for many reasons and which models you should look into if you are considering buying a used car. This is WesBank’s guide to buying smart when buying used.
Fuel Maketh The Drive
Whenever buying a car, most drivers are likely to look at the models that will help them save on fuel. This is because fuel prices in South Africa have been inconsistently rising and putting many people in a state of nervousness.
A smart driver knows that a car does not stop accumulating costs when it leaves the dealership, so you need a car that you’ll be able to maintain at all times. Some of the cars trusted with helping you cut fuel costs are as follows:
Petrol
Fiat 500: The charming Fiat 500 is perfect for first-time car owners, graduates and young professionals. Offered as a hardtop or convertible, this 63 kW/145 Nm strong 0.9-litre 2-cylinder turbo petrol engine is particularly economical with a consumption of 3.8 l/100 km. It comes in the option of either a manual or automatic transmission, plus there are 3 equipment variants to choose from: Pop, Pop Star and Lounge. The derivatives of the Fiat 500 Rockstar are slightly thirstier, with a stated consumption of 4.0 l/100 km.
Ford Fiesta: Having launched in 2018, the new Ford Fiesta comes with a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a fuel consumption of 4.3L/100km. This engine is offered with either 74 kW or 92 kW and 170 Nm of torque. Whether you are a young professional, you just reached a career milestone or promotion, or you just started a family, the Fiesta will help you save on fuel costs while offering you style, comfort and safety the way Ford knows how.
Renault Kwid: The Renault Kwid was updated in early 2020 with ABS, is a popular choice in the budget car segment, and the Dynamique derivative with automated manual transmission is the most fuel-efficient in the range with a quoted figure of 4.4 l/100 km. If you want something that is going to give you space and great fuel consumption while taking you and your loved ones further, Kwid’s 1.0-litre petrol engine offers an output of 50 kW and 91 Nm. The manual Kwid models consume slightly more at 4.7 l/100 km.
Diesel
Diesel cars are generally considered more fuel-efficient than their petrol-powered counterparts. While how much fuel you save while driving depends on several crucial factors, such as your driving style, road conditions and the mechanical condition of the vehicle, to name a few, these diesel cars can help you achieve your money-saving goals.
(Note: The diesel versions of the above petrol models can also help you save on fuel costs, so consider them too)
Nissan Qashqai: The much-lauded Nissan Qashqai has been replaced by an all-new model, making it the 3rd generation Nissan Qashqai, with its arrival coming 14 years after the original model burst onto the scene. The Nissan Qashqai remains a popular choice in the compact family car segment, and the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 81 kW and 260 Nm provides a quoted fuel consumption of 4.2 l/100 km. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard.
Another Nissan favourite among the family car section is the Magnite. In addition to anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), hydraulic brake assist (HBA), vehicle dynamic control (VDC), traction control system (TCS), hill-start assist (HSA), speed-sensitive door locking, central locking, and SRS dual airbag system with belt tensioning and belt force limiters for the driver and front passenger, the Magnite is also outfitted with these safety features.
Ford Ecosport: Ford's EcoSport is another popular choice in the compact family car segment. The EcoSport is available with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 74 kW and 205 Nm of torque and a 5-speed manual transmission.
Lifestyle Choices
If you are looking for cars that offer a little more than just convenience, some of the luxury cars in the market today are considered favourites among drivers due to their fuel saving, convenience and luxurious offers. These include:
Audi A3: The entry-level A3 saloon is powered by a powerful 1.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with 85 kW and 200 Nm of torque, promising fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km. A 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is standard, and the A3 30 TFSI Sportback also features in this list with a claimed fuel consumption of 4.7 l/100 km. This car is ideal for families too, as it offers enough space, safety and comfort for drivers and passengers alike.
Mercedes CLA: The 2.0-litre Merc turbo-diesel engine used in the CLA produces 140 kW and 400 Nm with a stated fuel consumption of 4.4 l/100 km.
Other Moneysaving Tips
There are other ways you can save on your car’s expenses, such as carpooling, using your car only when you need to, and making planned visits to malls and such.
Consider going to the shops for your monthly groceries once a month, and choose a day and time that does not have too much traffic. Luckily, most retailers open 7 days a week, and the operating hours cater for those who work too. If you do not work, consider shopping between 10 am and 12 midday during the week. On weekends, shop between 12 midday and 3 pm as most people prefer shopping in the mornings on weekends.
Another hack to save on car costs would be to place your vehicle under your asset insurance package. This will streamline your premium and lower it significantly.
When Looking To Downsize
You may want to change your car completely from a fuel draining machine to a more cost-effective and affordable one. Consider cars from reputable dealerships like us, and get some of your favourites at 2nd-hand car prices in South Africa. We also offer financing options to make your purchase an easy one. Talk to us about your options today.
