There’s nothing like driving a shiny new, high-end car off the forecourt and knowing that it’s all yours, and getting behind the wheel of a show-stopping Bentley, Rolls Royce or Lamborghini is undoubtedly a pleasure appreciated by affluent luxury lovers everywhere. But with the supply and production of luxury supercars having taken a hit over the past two years in light of the ongoing global pandemic, these prized vehicles are no longer as readily as available as they once were, with long waiting lists frustrating wealthy buyers who are used to having what they want, when they want it.
Such delays have led to a spike in the number of buyers looking for used high-end vehicles instead, and a new-found appreciation for pre-loved yet impeccably looked after luxury cars. Even when money is no object, the high depreciation rate in the value of brand new luxury cards can be off-putting, and buying a used but young vehicle is often a better investment – but there are plenty of other reasons to consider a second-hand car, too.
If you’re contemplating dipping your toe in the water with the millions of other affluent buyers who will be doing so this year, then these are the factors to consider – along with six used luxury cars that deserve pride of place on your driveway.
Why you should buy used luxury cars
There’s no denying that one of the main draws of a luxury car is its show-stopping aesthetic, and a streamlined body and sleek, sophisticated shape is enough to get any enthusiast excited. But looks aren’t everything, and the fact that they also feature some of the very best components money can buy to ensure the best possible performance and driving experience is another huge selling point.
So, why buy used?
The main benefit of buying a used luxury car is the price tag. Luxury cars are known for coming at eye-watering costs to buyers, and as we mentioned, choosing one that has already been driven will save you a lot of money in terms of depreciation. Because a used car has already taken the initial hit to its value, even if it has been driven just once, you can benefit from lower prices without losing as much money on the investment yourself, so it’s easy to see why, for many, it’s seen as a win-win.
Since the onset of the global pandemic, the shortage of new cars hasn’t gone unnoticed – but one of the root causes – a lack of the semiconductor chips that are used in new cars’ computer systems – is an ongoing problem that has yet to improve and is continuing to result in delays for manufacturers. If you don’t mind waiting up to a year for your dream car to surface, fresh from the automaker, then you can afford to rest on your laurels – but if you’re eager to get behind the wheel of a particularly flash model now, and can’t bear to hold out a little longer, then you’ll likely find a used version is available now with just a few miles on the clock.
Used luxury cars offer a great combination of style, comfort, and performance. And when you buy used, you’ll often get a great deal on a high-end vehicle. Luxury cars are built to last, so you can feel confident that your purchase will hold its value for years to come after the initial depreciation – with some particularly limited editions even fetching more than you bought them for later on.
It’s clear that buying a used luxury car is a smart idea, but when it comes to choosing just one, the challenge continues. Here, we take a look at six of the most popular models on the UK market today – and given the money you’ll be saving on not buying brand new, why not treat yourself to more than one of them?
1. Lexus LS
The Lexus LS is one of the most popular used luxury cars in the UK and is known for its impeccable style, unmatched comfort and, of course, a high-performance drive. A favourite amongst luxury car buyers for many years now, the LS comes with a variety of opulent features and lavish touches that are sure to please, including heated leather seats, a sunroof, and more. If you’re looking for a used luxury car that’s sure to turn heads for all the right reasons, the Lexus LS is a great option.
2. BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 series is another popular used luxury car in the UK, and is renowned for its slick design and cutting-edge technology. The build quality is as flawless as you’d expect, and the optional upgrade to semi-autonomous driving makes the driving experience as enjoyable and stress-free as it should be. Its excellent performance makes it perfect for drivers who want to enjoy a little bit of power along with their prestige.
3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
When it comes to luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz is one of the most instantly-recognisable brands, and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a perfect example of why it is so highly respected. Offering unmatched style and comfort, highlights include heated armrests in both the front and rear doors and along the central console, along with a heated steering wheel and luxury head restraints with additional cushion for both the driver and front passenger. But perhaps the biggest stand-out feature is the MBUX augmented reality head-up display, which makes this car truly iconic.
4. Audi A series
The Audi A series’ combination of performance and comfort makes it a luxury car that ticks all of the right boxes and more. Its stylish design and well-equipped interior have seen it become a much-loved choice amongst those who can appreciate a quality car, and it outperforms its main competitor, the Mercedes S Class, by only a hair to demonstrate how pleasant it is to drive and be driven in. The Audi A series is also available in several different models, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
5. Jaguar XJ
The Jaguar XJ is a popular used luxury car in the UK for those seeking a stylish ride and excellent performance. Known for its sleek design and powerful engine, it’s the perfect pick for making a memorable entrance and will ensure you are always remembered by those who matter. The Jaguar XJ also comes with a variety of features that will make your driving experience more enjoyable, including heated seats, on-board navigation, and a whole host of other luxury bells and whistles.
6. Porsche Panamera
And finally, the Porsche Panamera is not only the most comfortable and capable luxury car on this list, but it can also be driven far harder than any driver would dare. If you’re looking for a luxurious vehicle that truly performs in terms of handling, look no further than this masterpiece of engineering.
What to remember when buying used luxury vehicles
If you’re convinced that buying a used luxury car this year is the way to go, then be sure to bear a few key points in mind when shopping for yours. First, be sure to have a budget in mind and stick to it, making sure you’re buying for a fair price and aren’t getting so swept up in the glamour and sophistication of your dream car that you end up paying over the odds, as this defeats the object of buying second-hand.
Secondly, ensure you get hold of a vehicle history report so you can learn more about the car’s past. It would be smart to run a car check before purchasing, too – you can do this easily by visiting Reg Car Check to get access to a vehicle’s full history.
And finally, be sure to take your chosen car for a test drive before you make your final decision to ensure it lives up to your expectations.
Happy shopping!
