Which auto SUV for up to €35,000?

Hi,

Can I ask which vehicle you would choose from the following: Hyundai Kona 1.6 Hybrid Excellence or the new MG ZS Hybrid+. I want a reliable SUV with good power, automatic and all the mod cons with a budget of €35k for new.

Also, is it crazy to buy new or would I be better off buying from the following list even if it was 2-3 years old instead: Skoda Karoq Style or Sportline, SEAT Ateca, Cupra Formentor?

Thanks for the advice

Lorraine Rynne (Miltown Malbay)

Nov 2024 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi Lorraine,

The MG is certainly worth a look as it's exceptionally good value and also quite a spacious car. The Hyundai is perhaps a better-known quantity with a wider dealer network, but MG offers a great new-car warranty as well so don't be put off by that. If you're tempted by all the mod cons for that price I expect the MG might win for you, though make sure you go drive both for yourself to see which you prefer.

Buying new suits some people and not others. If you're buying with finance then it works well, and there's nothing quite like that new-car feel either. But others don't want to pay for the early years of depreciation that a new car comes with.

Of the used cars you mentioned, the Karoq and Ateca were never offered as hybrids. The Formentor was available as a plug-in hybrid if you'd consider that. It's a lovely car for sure. 

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D