Should I buy a new, or used Hyundai?

Almost every week, a customer walks into one of  our Hyundai dealerships in Shrewsbury or Telford, eyeing a specific model, and asks the same question: "Should I buy a new or used Hyundai?"

It's a common dilemma with significant implications for your wallet and peace of mind.

In this article, we'll break down the benefits and considerations of each option to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.

In the UK, sales of second hand vehicles significantly outnumber those that buy a brand new car every year.

According to Statista, on average, more than 80% of cars sold annually in the UK are used vehicles .  

Buying a New Hyundai.

But let's start with the benefits (and there are lots) of buying a brand new Hyundai.

When considering the purchase of a new car, there are several compelling benefits to keep in mind.

Here's a breakdown of the key advantages and a few potential drawbacks:

1: Custom Specifications:

You get to choose the exact specifications you want.

2: Manufacturer Warranty:

You have the protection of a full manufacturer warranty in case something goes wrong.

3: No Unknown History:

There's no unknown history to worry about.

These aren't the only benefits of buying new:

> Advanced Technology:

Newer cars often feature advanced technology, which shouldn't be underestimated.

> Fuel Efficiency:

Significant improvements have been made in fuel efficiency.

> Safety:

Modern cars come with enhanced safety features.

On the downside:

> Electrical Faults:

Most breakdowns in modern cars stem from electrical faults, many of which aren't easily fixed at the side of the road.

Buying a Used Hyundai

It's a well-known fact that more used cars are sold in the UK than new ones.

At JT Hughes, we see this trend firsthand – we sell more used Hyundai cars than new ones.

With almost 60 years of experience in the business, we've helped countless customers find the perfect used Hyundia cars for sale in Shropshire.

Here are the key benefits of buying a used Hyundai:

> Wide Selection:

Around eight million used cars are sold in a typical year, offering an enormous breadth of choice.

> Depreciation Avoidance:

Avoid taking the financial hit of depreciation – a new car loses around 20% of its value as soon as it leaves the showroom. After three years, most new cars are worth less than half their purchase price.

> Extended Warranties:

The introduction of ever-longer factory warranties has added to the appeal of used cars, boosting peace of mind for those buying previously owned vehicles.

> Dealer Sales: More than half of all used car sales are made by car dealers. The best used cars are often found within manufacturers' approved used schemes, offering a customer experience similar to buying new.

> Reputable Dealers: Buying from a reputable dealer may be more expensive than buying privately, but you can expect decent back-up if you experience problems.

> Lower Prices: Private purchases typically offer lower prices, while buying at auction can be the cheapest route to a used vehicle, though genuine bargains are rare and buyers have little recourse.

Drawbacks to Consider:

> Uncertain History:

The biggest downside of buying used is the uncertainty about a car's history. Issues like 'clocking,' or tampering with the recorded mileage, can be a concern.

Ideally, you'll buy a car with a complete service history. This is why it's crucial to purchase from a reputable Hyundai dealership, where you can have greater confidence in the vehicle's background and condition.

At JT Hughes Hyundai, for example, we ensure our used Hyundai cars meet high standards, providing you with peace of mind and reliable support.

Buying Ex-Demo Hyundai

If you want a blend of new and used, consider the nearly new option, often referred to as ex demonstrator models in the trade.

These cars offer a middle ground with distinct advantages.

When you buy nearly new, you'll typically be getting a car from a dealer's demonstration fleet or their 'pre-registered' stock (cars that have been bought by the dealer to meet sales targets).

Here are the key benefits of buying an ex-demo Hyundai:

1: Modern Features: You'll enjoy all the benefits of modern, fuel-efficient, and safe cars.

2: Reduced Depreciation: This option removes a good chunk of the 'out of the showroom' depreciation.

3: Lower Mileage: Nearly new cars usually have only a few thousand miles on them, not enough to impact their appeal or drivability.

4: Dealer's Choice: While the choice of specification is determined by what the dealership considers best for demonstrator appeal and resale, dealers are typically good judges of what the market wants.

Considerations:

> Resale Value: An extra name on the registration document can lower the car's resale value.

> Limited Choice: In terms of specification, you'll get whatever the dealership has chosen, which may not always align perfectly with your preferences.

> New Car Feeling: For some, the slight usage might detract from the 'new car' feeling, though others will appreciate the savings.

> Build Date: Confirm the build date of a pre-registered car before purchase. A car marketed as a 2021 model could actually be a 2020, which will affect its resale value.

When it comes to deciding whether to buy a new or used Hyundai, there is no single right answer. What is best for you is determined by your specific needs and preferences.

On the one hand, if affordability is a priority for you, a used Hyundai may be a better option. The majority of expenses will be reduced, beginning with the purchase price and ending with insurance.

This is especially true if the vehicle is still under manufacturer warranty. If not, you can choose to purchase an extended warranty.

When deciding whether a used Hyundai is a good fit for your budget, keep in mind the additional cost, registration fees, petrol (or charging), and other potential expenses.

On the other hand, a brand new Hyundai may include more advanced technology and safety features.

Furthermore, you will be able to customise it, eliminating the need to look for a used car that meets your specifications and requirements.

However, if you change cars every couple of years to drive the latest model, leasing may be a viable option for you.

Whether you choose new or used, at JT Hughes Hyundai, we offer a no-pressure sales environment and are committed to guiding you through the process, providing all the support you need to make an informed decision.

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