Skoda Kodiaq: import or buy new?

Hello,

We're thinking of buying a Skoda Kodiaq seven-seat petrol. We have a €10k deposit. We have two options: get a 2017 version from UK for €30k all in or buy a new one on PCP for €37k. Repayments will be the same on a six-year HP vs a three-year PCP, but leaning towards the used option from the UK. Anything we should consider? Is it better to buy new as easier to exchange?

Lee Russell (Dublin)

Jun 2019 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Lee,

There’s a lot of weighing up in this, but it’s mostly about the finances. The car will, to all intents and purposes, be identical in either scenario, PCP deals are tempting, because of their low monthly repayments, but don’t forget that they are a lease, not a purchase, so you have to keep the vehicle to an agreed standard and condition, or there will be penalty costs at the end of the three years.

There shouldn’t be any issue in terms of depreciation, but obviously a 2017 car will be worth less than a new car at the end of three years, but then you’ve paid less up front for it in the first place, so it should more or less balance out.

Of course, buying from the UK, you won't be able to trade in your current car, so you'll have to factor in the hassle of selling that yourself.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe