08.12.2025

2026 Used Car Buying Guide: What to Look for in the New Year

A Drift Bridge Group Guide

Introduction

January is one of the busiest and best times of year to buy a used car. With new registrations on the road, fresh part exchanges entering the market and buyers setting goals for the year ahead, the early months of 2026 offer excellent choice and strong value in the used car market.

At Drift Bridge Group, we offer a wide range of Approved Used Audi, Volkswagen, Škoda, and Honda vehicles, all prepared to manufacturer standards and supported by comprehensive aftersales care. This guide explains exactly what to look for when buying a used car in 2026, and how to choose the right vehicle with confidence.


1. Start With an Approved Used Programme

One of the safest ways to buy a used car is through a manufacturer-approved used scheme.

At Drift Bridge Group, our Approved Used vehicles benefit from:

  • Multi-point inspections by brand-trained technicians
  • Full vehicle history and mileage checks
  • Manufacturer-backed warranty
  • Roadside assistance
  • MOT cover where applicable
  • Strict preparation and cosmetic standards

Whether you choose Audi Approved, Volkswagen Approved Used, Škoda Approved Used, or Honda Approved Used, you gain far more protection than buying privately.


2. Always Check the Full Service History

A complete service history is one of the most important indicators of how well a car has been maintained.

You should look for:

  • Services carried out on time
  • Work completed by franchised dealers or recognised specialists
  • Evidence of major maintenance such as brakes, timing belts, DSG services or hybrid checks

At Drift Bridge Group, every used vehicle is fully checked, documented and prepared before it reaches the forecourt.


3. Choose the Right Car for Your Lifestyle

Before selecting a model, think about how you really use your car.

Consider:

  • Urban driving vs motorway mileage
  • Passenger and boot space requirements
  • Towing or roof load needs
  • Running costs and fuel economy
  • Business or personal use

Popular choices across our group include:

  • Audi A3 / A4 – ideal for commuting and company car users
  • Volkswagen Golf / Passat – versatile all-rounders
  • Škoda Octavia / Karoq – space and value-focused
  • Honda Civic / Jazz – reliability and efficiency
  • Audi Q5, VW Tiguan, Škoda Kodiaq, Honda CR-V – family and SUV buyers

4. Understand Mileage and Age in Context

Mileage should always be judged alongside age, service history and condition.

As a general guide:

  • Average UK use is around 8,000–10,000 miles per year
  • A well-maintained higher-mileage car can be a better buy than a low-mileage car with poor history
  • Regular servicing is often more important than mileage alone

Our teams will advise you honestly on whether a car’s mileage represents good long-term value.


5. Choose the Right Fuel Type for 2026

Powertrain choice is more important than ever in 2026.

At Drift Bridge Group, we offer:

  • Petrol – best for short urban journeys
  • Diesel – ideal for high motorway mileage
  • Mild hybrid and full hybrid – excellent for mixed driving
  • Plug-in hybrid – short daily trips with electric range
  • Fully electric – low running costs for suitable users

Across Audi, Volkswagen, Škoda, and Honda, our stock includes a wide choice of hybrid and electric vehicles to suit different budgets and driving habits.


6. Review Warranty and Aftercare Carefully

A strong aftercare package is one of the biggest advantages of buying from a franchised dealer.

Our Approved Used programmes typically include:

  • Manufacturer warranty
  • Breakdown assistance
  • Exchange or return policies
  • Optional fixed-price servicing plans
  • Access to genuine parts and trained technicians

This long-term support protects both your car and your investment.


7. Inspect Condition Inside and Out

Even with approved used vehicles, it is always worth checking:

  • Tyre condition and tread depth
  • Brake wear
  • Interior trim and infotainment operation
  • Alloy wheel condition
  • Windscreen chips or scratches

All Drift Bridge vehicles are prepared to strict cosmetic and mechanical standards before sale.


8. Take a Proper Test Drive

A thorough test drive should include:

  • Cold start behaviour
  • Urban driving and stop-start traffic
  • Motorway speeds
  • Steering and braking feel
  • Parking and low-speed manoeuvring

Our teams encourage extended test drives to ensure the car suits your driving style and daily needs.


9. Consider Finance and Part Exchange Options

January is a strong month for competitive used car finance and part exchange offers.

At Drift Bridge Group, we offer:

  • PCP and HP finance options
  • Flexible deposits and repayment terms
  • Accurate part exchange valuations
  • Business and personal contract hire on selected used vehicles

Our finance specialists will help you find the right solution for your budget.


Why Buy Used From Drift Bridge Group in 2026?

When you buy from Drift Bridge Group, you benefit from:

  • Five major manufacturer brands under one group
  • Brand-trained sales and aftersales teams
  • Multiple dealerships across Surrey and the South East
  • Comprehensive servicing and MOT support
  • Long-term customer care

You can browse our Approved Used stock at:


Final Thoughts

Buying a used car in January 2026 is an excellent way to secure strong choice, excellent value and long-term reliability. By choosing an Approved Used vehicle from Drift Bridge Group, you benefit from manufacturer backing, expert preparation and full aftersales support across all our brands.

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