The deals part 1

Who wants to buy a brand-new car? Choose the right nearly new car and you can save up to 1000s

Haggling on a new car could save you hundreds of pounds, but go for a lightly used model and youll save thousands.

Just 12 months ago there were plenty of great deals on nearly new bargains, but turbulent times in the motor trade mean there are fewer cars and higher prices. There are still some great deals, however if you know where to look.

Weve trawled forecourts and websites to find the biggest bargains. Some of these cars are a year old and have covered up to 12,000 miles, but some have engines that are barely run in. Whichever model you go for, youll save enough for that summer holiday.

Price from 4795 SAVE 5450

Toyota Yaris 1.0 VVT-i T2 3dr
09/09, 4011 miles
List price 10,245
**Target Price** 9530

With an excellent safety and reliability record, the Yaris is a popular used car. Despite the demand, there are plenty of year-old cars around. This 1.0-litre model sits in group two for insurance, has a claimed average of 56.5mpg and costs 35 a year in road tax. Most models are at franchised dealers; the few at car supermarkets and independent dealers arent noticeably cheaper.

Price from 5488 SAVE 2177

Fiat Panda 1.1 Active Eco
09/09, 5743 miles
List price 7665
Target Price 6948

The perky Panda makes a great used supermini its fun to drive and has a decent reliability record. This Active Eco model has a claimed average of 56.5mpg and will cost just 35 a year in road tax. Theres a limited supply of year-old Pandas at dealers and car supermarkets, with the odd one for sale privately. Consider those in brighter colours, such as orange or yellow but only if the price is right.

Price from 5795 SAVE 2700

Citron C1 1.0i VT 3dr
09/09, 9100 miles
List price 8495
Target Price 7771

Of the three almost identical cars from Citron, Peugeot and Toyota, the C1 is the cheapest, with the Toyota Aygo noticeably more expensive. This three-door C1 is 500 less than the equivalent five-door model, so is better value. Its a pre-face-lifted C1 (later models have a smaller front bumper, and slightly better economy and emissions), but youre still saving a tidy sum over the newer car.

Price from 6995 SAVE 3714

Renault Clio 1.2 Extreme 3dr
09/09, 1076 miles
List price 10,709
Target Price 9267

Youll find new-shape Clios at independent garages and car supermarkets as well as franchised dealers. This entry-level model has an economical 74bhp petrol engine, helping to keep insurance and road tax charges down. The Clio is one of the best superminis to drive and, despite this model being a three-door, theres still decent access to the roomy rear seats. The boot is generous, too.

Price from 6999 SAVE 3971

Skoda Roomster 1.2 S
09/09, 7082 miles
List price 10,970
Target Price 9507

The quirky Roomster is cheap, so youre getting a lot of car for a bargain price. Theres space for five adults, the boot is generous and the rear seats recline, fold or can even be removed. Year-old models are scarce and most are at franchised dealers; those at car supermarkets can be far cheaper. These cars get snapped up fast , though, so youll have to be quick to get one.