Cheapest Used Cars to Run: Which Type Suits You?

The cheapest used cars to run are usually small, light, well-maintained cars matched to how far you actually drive: a small petrol for mostly short local trips, a hybrid for mixed town and A-road driving, and an electric car if you can charge at home.

What makes a used car cheap to run?

Running costs are more than fuel. Insurance, vehicle tax, servicing, tyres, repairs and depreciation all add up, and a car that wins on one can lose on another.

• Fuel or charging: lighter cars with smaller engines use less, and home charging is usually the cheapest way to run an EV.

• Insurance: lower insurance groups and modest power help, especially for younger drivers.

• Tax: check the rate for the exact car on GOV.UK, as it depends on when it was registered and its emissions.

• Servicing and parts: common models tend to have cheaper, easy-to-find parts.

• Tyres: smaller wheels and tyres usually cost less to replace.

Which type of car suits short local trips?

A small petrol hatchback is often the sensible choice if most of your driving is a few miles at a time. Petrol engines warm up quickly, are simple to look after and do not rely on long runs to stay healthy.

Is a diesel still worth it for high mileage?

A diesel can still make sense if you regularly cover long motorway distances. On mostly short trips it is a poor fit, because modern diesels need regular longer runs to keep the diesel particulate filter clear.

When does a hybrid make sense?

A hybrid suits mixed driving with plenty of stop-start traffic, where the electric motor does more of the work. It needs no charging and servicing is similar to a petrol car.

Is a used electric car cheaper to run?

It can be, particularly if you can charge at home on a good tariff. Electric cars now pay vehicle tax, and there are fewer service items, but tyres can wear faster on heavier cars. Our guide to whether a used electric car is cheaper to run than petrol goes through the sums.

Does a bigger family car always cost more?

Not always. A sensibly sized family car with a modest engine can cost little more to run than a supermini, while a large SUV with big wheels will usually cost more in fuel, tyres and insurance. Buy the size you need rather than the size you might one day need. If you are still deciding on fuel type, see petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric: which should you choose.

How can you compare running costs before you buy?

Write down your typical weekly mileage and journeys, then compare a few cars on fuel or charging, insurance quotes, tax and likely servicing. Our cost comparison calculator helps you weigh up the numbers side by side.

Common questions

Is a smaller engine always cheaper?

Usually for fuel, but a very small engine working hard in a heavy car can be less efficient than a slightly bigger one. Match the engine to the car and your driving.

Do older cars cost more to run?

They are cheaper to buy, but may need more repairs. A full service history and a recent MOT matter more than age alone.

Should I get insurance quotes before buying?

Yes. Insurance can vary a lot between similar cars, so get quotes on the exact models you are considering.

Find a low-cost car in Barnsley

Browse our used cars or visit anycolourcar.com in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Call Sales on 01226 574410, or Service and Customer Care on 01226 574321 to book a service or repair.

This guide is general information, not financial advice. Updated October 2026.