Currently reading: New cars 'cheaper than used'

Heavy discounts mean new cars are better value

New cars are cheaper than used ones for the first time ever, it has been claimed.

Manufacturers are making huge discounts on the list price of many cars in a bid to shift stock, while a shortage of decent second-hand cars has led to inflated used prices.

At one car supermarket anew Subaru Impreza 2.5 WRXs were being offered for £12,999, a saving of £6000, while a used 2008 WRX on an 08-plate, with 7500 miles, was found for £14,495.

An 08-plate Vauxhall Corsa 1.0-litre Life model with 5160 miles on the clock was £6494, while a new 09-plate is available from a dealer for nearly £600 less at £5995.

However, experts have warned that the price reversal will not last long.

Simon Harris, consumer editor of price guide Parker's, said: “This will only be a temporary phenomenon in the marketplace. A used car is always worth less than a new one, so given time the market will correct itself."

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