Outstanding example of this highly regarded hatchback, combining plenty of room for all the family with economical running costs and that famed Hyundai reliability with a comprehensive specification.  Very well maintained with excellent history, fully valeted, and just given a full service and new MoT, and with new tyres all round recently.  Specification includes cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, traction control, electric windows and mirrors, lane departure warning, remote radio controls, Bluetooth, CD-player and alloy wheels etc etc.

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.  
Seventeen large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

Hyundai have firmly established a place for themselves in the UK car market, with a reputation for cars that are solidly built and hugely reliable, whilst also meeting driver’s needs for comfort, road manners and economy.  The i20 is their smaller hatchback, perhaps not surprisingly larger than an i10 and smaller than the i30! 

This example has been owned by my friend and former work colleague Soren, who bought the car in January 2023 as a car for his adult children to use.  Three years later, and Soren was seduced by the promotional offer of a new Seat Ibiza as replacement – so it’s time for the i20 to find a new home!  I’ve bought several cars from Soren over the years to take into stock – I know he always maintains them well and looks after them.

Soren lives in Edinburgh, and the deal on the Seat Ibiza was from a dealer in Leeds – so we agreed to meet there… he drove the i20 down from Edinburgh to Leeds to collect the Seat, and I took the train to Leeds and drove the i20 back home here to Gloucestershire.  It performed very well on the drive home, being comfortable and quiet on the motorway and very economical too!

Hyundai i20 Ownership in General

This example is one of the second generation of i20, which took over from the first generation in 2015, and continued in production until 2020 when the current generation was launched.  There was a minor facelift of the i20 in June 2018 – this example pre-dates that, as it was first sold in March 2018.

Like all Hyundais, it’s well respected in the trade for its driveability, build quality and reliability – that’s why Hyundai offer their new cars with a seven year warranty.  There’s no hint of a squeak or rattle on this example, and the handling and roadholding remains assured and competent.

As outlined above, I drove this car back from Leeds – a journey of about 200 miles and four hours.  During this, the i20 performed very well indeed.  It cruises smoothly, quietly and comfortably, the audio system is good, there is loads of room in the car, and everything works as it should.   It’s not going to set the road on fire, but that’s not really what this car is designed for.  It has plenty enough power from the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 83bhp and 122NM torque; that gets it up to 60mph in around 12 secs, and on to a maximum speed of 106mph (where legal, of course!). 

This example is the 1.2 SE MPi (multipoint injection).  Hyundai model ranges are confusing, with lots of different trim levels and special editions – but the SE model is roughly in the middle of the specification range, bringing some crucial safety equipment which is missing from the more basic models.  

This version is also super-economical.  Being a Petrol Euro 6, it is ULEZ compliant, and car tax is only £195 a year.  The combined fuel economy is a excellent 58.9mpg and even the cold urban efficiency test produces 47.1mpg, making this car easy to justify on cost grounds!

Specification of this example

Despite being supposedly a “city car”, this example has pretty much everything that you could reasonably want or expect by way of useful equipment!  The equipment roster features air conditioning, 10-spoke alloy wheels, electric windows all round, electric mirrors, cruise control, remote radio controls, Bluetooth, RDS radio with CD-player, aux and USB inputs, front and rear foglamps, and height adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel.

It also boasts a full complement of safety equipment, including driver’s, passenger’s, side and curtain airbags, five seats each with a head restraint and three-point seat belt, anti-lock brakes, Traction Control, Lane Departure warning system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and ISOFIX mountings to the outer rear seats.

This car’s condition

It’s immediately apparent that this Hyundai has been looked after exceptionally well.  I’ve bought several cars from Soren in the past, and they have always been well-presented, in good condition, with good service history.

The Polar White paintwork on this example is bright and shiny, set off by the 15” alloy wheels.  At this mileage, you might expect there to be some signs of use – but this example is much better than you might anticipate.  There’s no trolley dents or scuffs or any significant scratches – just a couple of minor stonechips and some marks to the bottom of the front bumper where it has been caught, to evidence the mileage.  The whole car presents very well indeed and looks smart throughout.  The interior is also immaculate, and is a comfortable place to be, with two-tone grey fabric seats.  The driver’s seat is height adjustable too, for added comfort.  There’s no damage to the upholstery, and with the carpets protected from new with good quality overmats.  There’s no cigarette lighter or front ashtray, suggesting that the car has been owned by non-smokers.   

It’s in great condition mechanically too.  There’s a thorough service history, with a service book showing six services, with the latest one completed by my mechanics prior to this sale.  Like most Hyundais, the camshaft in this engine is driven by chain, rather than by belt – so there is no cambelt replacement to worry about. 

The 39,000 miles from new shown on the clock is warranted, and this is further supported by the service history and MoT printout.  The current MoT is valid through to mid January 2027.  The car has been fully valeted, and comes with an Experian Data Check report (like HPI) which shows no problems and evidences that the car has never been seriously damaged or written off, has no outstanding finance, is not stolen and is a UK supplied vehicle. 

Like all our cars, it also comes with a 100-point mechanical and functional test report.

The Motoring Press view

This example dates from early 2018, just ahead of the mid-life facelift that occurred in the middle of that year.  Praising the comfort, reliability and spacious interior, Parker’s Car Guide awards this generation of i20 an excellent 4 star (out of 5) rating – better than the model that superseded it – and comments:-

“Just like Aldi or Lidl, Hyundai has found itself moving from a left-field value-led offering to a genuine mainstream option, with quality products in recent years. Nowhere is this more evident than with its small cars – like the new Hyundai i20 hatchback here.

All cars get decent levels of kit, such as a 7.0-inch touchscreen, but SE and up get crucial safety kit that could lower your running costs. This is no Ford Fiesta rival when it comes to on-road behaviour; it lacks the taut responses and upper-level of feedback offered by the Ford. But that’s not what buyers in this segment most often desire, and the i20 is a comfortable, relaxing car to drive. It’s damning it slightly with faint praise but this car feels entirely unremarkable on the move, thanks to light controls and soft supple suspension, but that’s actually the mainstay of its appeal.

The cabin feels like it’s constructed from quality materials while rivals should rightfully be worried about the amount of space on offer across the rear bench and in the boot behind.  Thanks to being longer and wider than before, the Hyundai i20’s practicality is better than the model it replaces. Those in the rear will notice generous space too, with excellent legroom and masses of headroom – even for fully grown adults. It’s incredibly logical, if not particularly imaginatively, laid-out with sizable switchgear that operates with a reassuring feeling of solidity. Certainly there’s no questioning the quality of the materials used in that respect, and the dashboard and general front-cabin environment feels far more grown up than before too. The first element to strike you is just how quiet the Hyundai i20 is, with very little road roar, wind noise or engine clatter making its way into the cabin.  There’s no harshness to the suspension at all, gliding over most lumps and bumps.  Wherever you sit in the new i20 you’re treated to a comfortable chair, and up front there’s plenty of adjustment too. Quality has been improved here too, from the materials used surrounding the dashboard switchgear to the fabric on the seats and it certainly looks smart rather than smart-price in there.

The i20 isn’t a large car and its handling means it’s among the easier cars of this type to park. Boot space has been increased over the old car, by 10%, from 295 litres to 326 litres in the latest i20 with all seats in place. Clever design and packaging means the rear bench can be folded completely flat, extending this area to a sizeable 1,042 litres.

The Hyundai i20 scored four stars back in 2015 when it was crash tested by Euro NCAP. A lane departure warning system, which audibly notifies you if you stray past your designated lane markings on the road, rear parking sensors, front fog lights and cruise control with a speed limited function are fitted from SE models upwards.

With 83bhp the 1.2-litre petrol engine is not fast, taking 13.1 seconds to get from 0-62mph. However it doesn’t feel wheezy and can hold its own on the motorway thanks to a useful 122NM of torque. As you would expect from a small petrol unit, there is little engine noise to report, although it does get louder as you push on. On a motorway cruise there’s little wind noise, but you only really notice since the rest of the car is so quiet – the i20 is a relaxing car to tackle a long trip in Conceived from the outset as a car that should be cheap to run and maintain, the Hyundai i20’s running costs are pleasingly low – so whatever model you choose it won’t cost the earth over the course of your ownership.

Should I buy a Hyundai i20?

The Hyundai i20 is designed to be a volume seller and, in all fairness, thanks to its strong reputation for reliability and customer service, it should do well. It’s a practical, comfortable, easy-to-live-with proposition that takes its fight directly to mainstream choices, while still offering incredible value makes is a strong contender for your cash

Equipment and Features

> Finished in Polar White paintwork, with two-tone grey fabric interior trim
> 1248cc 4-cylinder 16-valve fuel-injection petrol engine, producing 83bhp and 122 Nm torque
> 5-speed manual transmission, driving through the front wheels
> Electric Power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Air conditioning with chilled glovebox
> 10-spoke (5xtwin) 15” alloy wheels
> Hyundai multimedia audio system, RDS Radio with CD player, AUX and SD-card input, Bluetooth phone and music functionality, steering wheel mounted controls and roof mounted bee-sting aerial
> Cruise Control with speed limiter function
> Electric front and rear windows, with one-touch operation to driver’s window
> Electrically adjusted door mirrors
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
> Traction control system
> Tyre pressure monitoring system
> Lane Departure Warning System
> Rear parking sensors
> Daytime running lights
> Central locking, with two full remote keys
> Tinted windows
> Map-pocket to rear of front passenger seat
> Height adjustable driver’s seat
> 60/40 split rear seat
> Three rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts and head restraints; ISOFIX mounting points to outer two seats
> Height adjustable steering wheel 
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, side and curtain airbags
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Electrically heated rear window
> Multifunction Trip Computer with current mpg, average mpg, distance to empty, speed since reset, time since reset and speed warning functions
> Rear parcel shelf
> Carpet overmats front and rear
> Electronic engine immobiliser
> 12v charger point
> Sunglasses holder

History and Documentation
> The current mileage is showing as 39,206 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The i20 comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 31^st March 2018, and transferred to its second owner in mid-May of the same year – I suspect it was either a pre-registered car or maybe a demonstrator.  The second owner then kept it four years – until March 2022 – by which time it had 20,000 miles recorded.  The third owner then kept it until January 2023, but added a further 8,500 miles in that nine months.  Soren then bought it from Arnold Clark, and has kept it until now.
> The current MoT expires on the 17^th January 2027.  An MoT history check shows previous MoTs completed at:-

22/03/2021;    16,376 miles, no advisories
14/03/2022;    20,126 miles, advisories for rear brake disc wear and front tyre wear
18/01/2023;   28,466 miles, no advisories
10/01/2024;   33,126 miles, no advisories
13/01/2025;    35,931 miles, no advisories
10/01/2026;    39,160 miles, no advisories
> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems whilst noting that the car was on a personalised registration number between February 2019 and February 2022
> The car has a thorough service history, with stamps in the service book showing :-
             16,376 miles; 22/03/2021
             20,126 miles; 15/03/2022
             28,463 miles; 18/01/2023
             33,156 miles; 11/01/2024
35,932 miles; 13/01/2025
39,151 miles; 07/01/2026 – My mechanics
> The owners manual and book pack are present

Bodywork and Interior condition

> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in excellent condition.  It presents very smartly throughout, and there’s no obvious signs of its age or mileage.  Inevitably at this age and mileage there are a few light surface scratches and a couple of touched-in stone chips, and there’s some very minor scuffing to the bottom of the front bumper, but that’s really all there is – there aren’t even any trolley dents to be found.
> The interior is also spotless throughout, with no damage to the fabric seats or carpets.  It is fitted with carpet overmats throughout.

Mechanical condition and wheels/tyres

> The car has covered just over 39,000 miles.  It goes extremely well – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect!
> All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should
> The 15” alloy road wheels have been reconditioned to repair some surface corrosion, and therefore are now in excellent condition with no marks or scuffing
> The road tyres have been replaced very recently and are a matched set of good quality midrange Kumho Ecowing tyres in 185/65 x 15 size.  All the road tyres have 7mm of tread across the tyre face.  The spare wheel is a space saver wheel, fitted with an unused Maxxis 125/80 x15 tyre
> The tools, jack, locking wheel nut key and wheelbrace are all present

Summary

All in all – this is a highly desirable example of this well-respected small family hatchback, which combines sharp, modern styling, with loads of interior space and comfort, good equipment levels and excellent fuel economy.  For a small car, the equipment level is extensive – almost from the class above – with premium features like cruise control, lane departure warning system, Bluetooth stereo and phone connection, electric windows all round, front and rear foglights, and alloy wheels.  This example is in excellent condition throughout, with a very low mileage (averaging just 5000 miles per year), very well maintained, fully valeted, just serviced, recent tyres all round, and with a new MoT.  I’m not expecting this to be here for long! 

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell. Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.
Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard. However, we are agents for aftermarket warranty provider Warranty Assist.

If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a comprehensive Warranty Assist Warranty for this Hyundai i20 covering 100% of the parts and labour cost on all major components, and labour rates up to £60ph and with a £50 excess, at a cost of £239 for 6-months or £299 for 12-months, or £549 for 24-months.  This will cover repair costs up to the value of the vehicle. Lower or higher levels of warranty cover are available for different premiums if preferred.
Please click on “our services” tab for more details.

Outstanding example of this premium full-size luxury estate car, combining a very powerful yet highly economical 2.0 turbodiesel engine, with S-line styling and a huge specification.  Very well maintained, fully valeted, and just given a full service.  Specification includes colour sat nav, four-zone climate control, full leather interior with electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats to front AND rear, 18” alloy wheels, powered tailgate, DAB radio with multimedia audio system, Bluetooth, parking sensors all round and rear colour reversing camera, Park Assist function, cruise control, headlamp washers, etc etc

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.  
Twenty-seven large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

The Audi A6 is a car that commands respect – for its size, quality construction and sheer road presence.  I can still remember seeing the first generation of them being released at the UK Motor Show and being deeply impressed!  Several years later and that feeling is undiminished – these are a hugely accomplished executive car.   And this is a particularly capable version, with its enhanced sporty S-line styling, 190PS engine, incredible fuel economy and all the kit you can think of.

This example has been owned from new by local facilities-management company director Derek, who is related to one of my outsourced mechanics.  Originally, the car was registered to his company, and then in the name of the company CEO – but in 2021 Derek opted for part-time working prior to retirement, and was given the car as part of his package.  Hence, it shows Derek as the third owner, although he has been its driver from new.  During his ownership, it has always been serviced by local Audi main agents in Tetbury.  Derek has now fully retired, and no longer needs a large, smart car – instead he has bought a van to put his fishing kit in! – and so the Audi is surplus to requirements.  My mechanic tipped me off that the car was available, and I was pleased to buy it into stock and offer it here for sale.

Audi A6 Avant Ownership in General

Introduced in 2011, this sixth generation A6 Avant offered improved handling and sharper styling than the previous generations – both of those factors turned up to Max on the S-line versions.  Like all Audis, its well respected in the trade for its superb German build quality and reliability.  There’s no hint of a squeak or rattle on this example, and the handling remains sharp and taut, yet with comfortable roadholding and cruising. 

This is further enhanced by the Drive Select system which allows the driver to adjust the settings of the suspension and throttle response.  In Comfort mode (ideal for City driving and traffic) it’s a fairly serene experience, with slightly lazier engine characteristic and lighter steering.  Choosing Dynamic means everything is sharpened – throttle response is faster and the steering weight increases. Driving fast in this mode is incredibly rewarding.  Auto switches seamlessly between Comfort and Dynamic, so is probably the best setting for general driving.  Efficiency mode softens the throttle response to improve overall economy.  Finally, you have the choice of Individual mode.  This lets you set up your own profile with all of the characteristics you’d like, including the weighting of the steering, engine response, suspension settings and many more besides.

I’ve driven this one on an extended test drive, and it performs very well indeed.   I haven’t had the chance to fiddle around much with the Drive Select system – but the standard set up of lowered S-line suspension gives terrific handling and roadholding, whilst the cruise control and comfortable seats give relaxed cruising when you just need to eat up the miles. There’s plenty of power from that 190PS turbo-charged diesel engine – the crushing 400NM torque powers it through to 60-mph in just over 8 secs, and on to a maximum of 140mph (where legal, of course!).  Like all German cars – and particularly Audi – the controls are all well weighted and work with beautiful precision, and the fit and finish of the interior is second to none.

This generation of A6 was introduced in 2011, and continued through to 2018 – so this example is near the end of the production run, benefitting from all the revisions and mid-life restyling.

This example is the 2.0 TDI Ultra S-Line derivative – which brings an almost never-ending list of standard equipment – topped off in this example by some well-chosen options – and combines it with Ultra economy too to give running costs that are affordable even in the present costly climate!  It is diesel Euro 6 standard, making it ULEZ compliant, car tax is only £195 a year, and the combined fuel economy is an incredible 61.4mpg, and a cold urban efficiency of 50.4mpg – so it is easy to justify the purchase on cost grounds!

Specification of this example

The equipment specification of this car is like a list of everything you could want.  Dual-zone climate control, colour sat nav via a retractable dashboard screen, DAB-Digital radio with SD-card input, Bluetooth, and CD player, keyless start, electric windows all round with one-touch operation to all, full leather interior, electrically adjusted, memory front seats, heated seats front and rear, auto lights and wipers, powered tailgate, remote folding rear seats, parking sensors front and rear and rear colour reversing camera, electric heated powerfolding mirrors, 18” alloy wheels, xenon headlamps, LED day running lights, headlamp washers, cruise control and a 6-speed manual gearbox.  The list is almost endless.

It also boasts a full complement of safety equipment, including driver’s and passenger’s airbags, five seats each with a head restraint and three-point seat belt, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Hill Hold, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, seatbelt pre-tensioners and ISOFIX mountings to the outer rear seats.

The Ultra TDI engine is tuned for ultimate economy – with just 119g/km CO2 emissions, meaning that road fund licence is just £195 a year….whilst fuel economy is equally incredible – with government test results of 50.4 mpg on the URBAN cycle (!!) and 61.4 mpg combined.  These are figures that would have seemed completely unachievable in a car of this size even just a few years previously.  And all of this is in a car capable of 0-60 in just over 8 secs….

This car’s condition

It’s immediately apparent that this Audi has been looked after exceptionally well.  My mechanic contact told me that whenever there was a hint of something needing attention, Derek would immediately book the car in to Tetbury Audi main agents to be resolved. 

The Tornado Grey metallic paintwork is bright and shiny, set off by the 18” alloy wheels.  At this mileage you’d expect there to be some signs of use – but this example is much better than you might anticipate! There’s no trolley dents or scuffs or any significant scratches – just a couple of minor stonechips to evidence the mileage – and the whole car presents very well indeed and looks smart throughout.  The interior is also immaculate, and is a lovely place to be – with soft charcoal leather seats, with stitched panels and S-line embossed head restraints.  Those front seats are multi-way electrically adjustable, with height and lumbar adjustment to both seats, and with memory settings too.  There’s no damage to the upholstery, and with the carpets protected from new with good quality overmats.  There’s no cigarette lighter or front ashtray, suggesting that the car has been owned by non-smokers.   

It’s in great condition mechanically too – the service intervals are advised by an onboard display depending on vehicle usage.  There’s a thorough service history, with a main dealer electronic printout showing the delivery inspection and five subsequent services  and then after that there are invoices for a further service at a local independent specialist, and then my mechanics have carried out a further full service prior to this sale.  The main agent service in February 2023, at 69,291 miles, also included replacement of the cambelt, tensioner and water pump.  The receipts also show replacement of the battery in November 2025, and also the replacement of the EGR cooler at 61,391 miles in May 2022; a quick google search will show you that EGR cooler problms are relatively common on the TDI Ultra engine, so it’s good that this one has been replaced by Audi.  I’ve summarised all this into a generic service book for ease of reference. 

The 94,000 miles from new shown on the clock are warranted, and this is further supported by the service history and an MoT printout.  The current MoT was valid through to May 2026, but as this was fairly near being due, a new one has now been completed and is valid until February 2027.  Despite the mileage, there aren’t any odd noises, squeaks or rattles – just as you would expect from an Audi, and all the equipment in the car works as it should.  The car has been fully valeted, and comes with an Experian Data Check report (like HPI) which shows no problems and evidences that the car has never been seriously damaged or written off, has no outstanding finance, is not stolen and is a UK supplied vehicle. 

The Motoring Press view

This example dates from mid 2017; there was a mild facelift in 2014, and a further facelift in 2016 which this car obviously benefits from.  Awarding it an excellent 4.1 stars out of 5, and praising the handling (“Best handling A6 Avant ever!”), low running costs and plush interior, Parker’s Car Guide comments:-

“Top quality premium estate offers high mpg or huge performance,
The Audi A6 Avant has rather a lot to boast about. It’s 70kgs lighter than its predecessor thanks to a body that’s 20% aluminium, it’s faster, it has fewer emissions, fuel economy has been improved partly down to the inclusion of stop/start technology, there’s loads more kit and it’s more refined.
There’s a lot of space inside the Audi A6 Avant. Four adults fit easily with loads of head- and legroom, The E-Class Estate’s boot is far bigger than any other in this sector, but that isn’t to say the A6 Avant’s is pokey. It’s actually an incredibly practical car. A powered tailgate is a worthwhile optional extra. As you would expect the interior of the A6 Avant is identical to the saloon. All the switchgear is laid out in an orderly set-up. The focal point in the cabin is the knob that controls the MMI infotainment system – it allows you to control audio, the Bluetooth phone interface and the sat-nav. In the main the materials used in the cabin are of extremely high quality and build quality feels top-class.
The Audi A6 Avant is one of the most luxurious in the sector.  The build quality of the cabin is very good indeed – everything feels very well screwed together.  The car rides well over undulating surfaces which means it’s best on motorways but it can still hold its own on B-roads. Just stick to smaller wheels rather than opting for the larger 20-inch wheels as these can make the ride feel jittery even on smooth surfaces.
The lowest fuel bills come courtesy of the 2.0-litre TDI Ultra diesel engine, which returns up to a claimed 64.2mpg in some specifications. Following the 2014 refresh the Ultra A6 Avants are the ones to pick for lowest CO2 emissions
We’ve heard of no reason to be concerned about the A6 Avant’s reliability. Many of its mechanical parts are tried-and-tested in other Audi products, and there haven’t been any major recalls to be concerned about.
In January 2014 there was a very mild facelift which introduced a number of minor engine changes.
Audi’s Drive Select system is on hand to change the characteristics of the car to your preferences. The car is set up quite well: it has a firm ride and the chassis is good but the big downside is the steering. Whether you tinker with the Drive Select modes or not, it feels a little vague and it is not as engaging as the BMW which is a real shame. Stiffer sports suspension lowers the car by 20mm and that comes as standard when you choose the A6 Avant in S line trim.  This gives the car better turn-in while still retaining decent grip levels.
Despite the majority of its rivals having been updated since the A6 Avant was launched, it remains one of the top cars in its sector – a ringing endorsement of an excellent design in the first place. Sure, it lacks the very latest driver assistance tech of the 5 Series and E-Class, but the infotainment and cabin features Audi built in to start with were best-in-class.
So if you’re after a large, practical car and are able to resist the lure of the SUV, the A6 Avant is a great option”

Equipment and Features

> Finished in Tornado Grey Metallic paintwork, with charcoal leather interior trim
> 1968cc 4-cylinder 16-valve fuel-injection turbocharged diesel engine, producing 190PS and 400 Nm torque
> 6-speed manual transmission
> Power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Four- zone climate control with individual controls for rear passengers
> 10-spoke (5xtwin) 18” alloy wheels
> Audi MMI Navigation and multimedia system – colour screen satellite navigation system, MMI entry, DAB Digital Radio with CD player and SD-card input, Bluetooth phone and music functionality, all in a retractable dashboard display, steering wheel mounted controls and roof mounted shark-fin aerial
> Cruise Control
> Electric front and rear windows, all with one-touch operation
> Electrically adjusted, powerfolding and heated door mirrors
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist
> Electric parking brake with hill hold function
> Electronic Stability Programme and Traction control system
> Driver selected Drive Select system, with efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic and individual options
> Tyre pressure monitoring system
> Front and rear parking sensors and rear colour reversing camera
> Park Assist function
> Automatic headlights
> Xenon self-levelling headlamps
> Daytime running lights
> Headlight washers
> Central locking, with two full remote keys
> Tinted windows
> S-line embossed front seats, with fully adjustable head restraints, defined stitching, height and lumbar adjustment, each with stowage tray underneath and map pocket to rear
> Electrically adjusted front seats with memory function
> Interior tailgate release with powered tailgate
> Heated front and rear seats
> Three rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts and head restraints; ISOFIX mounting points to outer two seats
> Remote rear-seat automatic folding
> Height and reach adjustable steering wheel 
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, and side airbags
> Automatic wipers
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Electrically heated rear window
> Multifunction Trip Computer
> Keyless start
> Start/Stop function
> Automatically folding retractable load cover
> Original Equipment carpet overmats
> Alarm and electronic engine immobiliser
> 12v charger points to front and rear
> Warning Triangle integral to boot lid
> First Aid kit integral to rear armrest

History and Documentation

> The current mileage is showing as 94,470 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The A6 comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 22^nd May 2017, through Audi Bolton, and then brought down to Gloucestershire.  Originally registered to the company itself, it was then transferred into the name of the CEO in April 2021 when it had around 50,000 miles on the clock.  It was then re-registered in to Derek’s own name in June 2021.
> The current MoT expires on the 8^th February 2027, and was issued with no advisory items.  An MoT history check shows previous MoTs completed at:-

13/05/2020;    38,561 miles, no advisories
23/04/2021;    50,251 miles, no advisories
04/05/2022;   61,391 miles, advisory for a loose wing mirror glass and slight wear to a front suspension bush
11/05/2023;   72,533 miles, advisory for a tyre worn close to the limit
16/05/2024;   82,697 miles, no advisories
27/05/2025;    91,662 miles, no advisories
09/02/2026;    94,472 miles, no advisories

> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems
> The car has a thorough service history, predominantly with the local main agent, with records showing :-
18,953 miles; 20/12/2018 – Audi Main Agent Service (Electronic record)
37,498 miles; 10/03/2020 – Audi Main Agent Service (Electronic record)
50,250 miles; 23/04/2021 – Audi Main Agent Service, plus brake discs and pads all round (Electronic record, plus receipt)
61,391 miles; 04/05/2022 – Audi Main Agent – replace EGR Cooler – receipt
69,291 miles 03/02/2023 – Audi Main Agent Service, plus cambelt, water pump and tensioner (Electronic record, plus receipt)
78,994 miles; 20/12/2023 – Audi Main Agent Service (Electronic record, plus receipt)
88,340 miles; 10/12/2024 – Local Audi specialist – full service receipt
93,112 miles; 06/08/2025 – Local independent – Clean DPF and replace manifold pressure sensor – receipt
94,391 miles; 05/11/2025 – Local independent – replace one glow plug and the battery – receipt
94,433 miles; 23/12/2025 – My mechanics – full service receipt
94,469 miles; 03/02/2026 – Local Audi specialist – replace the fuel flap actuator
> The owners manual and book pack are present, together with a generic service book to record all the servicing information more easily

Bodywork and Interior condition

> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in excellent condition.  It looks stunning and there’s no indication that it has covered 94k miles.  Inevitably at this age and mileage there are a few light surface scratches and a couple of touched-in stone chips to the front bumper, but that’s really all there is – there aren’t even any trolley dents to be found.
> The interior is also spotless throughout, with no damage to the leather seats or carpets.  It is fitted with original equipment overmats, in excellent condition.

Mechanical condition and wheels/tyres

> The car has covered just under 94,500 miles.  It goes extremely well – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect!
> All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should
> The 18” alloy road wheels are in excellent condition – there’s a little bit of pitting between the spokes and one or two very very minor marks, but there’s no scuffing or kerbing to the rims or the spokes
> The road tyres are a matched set of good quality midrange Falken Ziex ZE310 tyres in 245/45 x18 size.  The front tyres have between 4mm-5mm of tread, and the rear tyres have 6mm of tread across the face.  The spare wheel is a space saver wheel, fitted with a Hankook 145/60 x20 tyre
> The tools, jack, locking wheel nut key and wheelbrace are all present

Summary

All in all – this is a highly desirable, stylish, top quality executive estate, which combines sporty driving credentials and styling with ultra-economical motoring and plenty of interior space and comfort.  The huge equipment roster is a bonus too – sat nav, DAB radio, heated leather seats front and rear, headlamp washers, powered tailgate, quad zone climate control, 18” alloy wheels, S-line suspension and seats etc etc.  The A6 is hugely respected in the trade, for obvious reasons, and this example is in excellent condition throughout, very well maintained (including cambelt and EGR Cooler replacement), fully valeted, just serviced and with a new MoT.  I’m not expecting this to be here for long! 

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell. Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.
Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard. However, we are agents for aftermarket warranty provider Handler Protect.
If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a comprehensive Handler Protect Gold Warranty for this Audi A6, covering 100% of the parts and labour cost on all major components, and labour rates up to £60ph, at a cost of £275 for 7-months (6-months plus a bonus extra month) or £379 for 18-months (12-months plus a bonus additional 6-months). This will cover repair costs up to the value of the vehicle. Lower or higher levels of warranty cover are available for different premiums if preferred.
Please click on “our services” tab for more details.

Excellent condition example of this iconic load-lugging estate car, with new MoT, fully valeted and serviced.  Huge specification with almost every available option including satellite navigation, heated electrically adjusted front seats, front fog lamps, dual zone climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors, powered tailgate, 17” Canicula alloy wheels and much more! 

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.
Twenty-one large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

Some time ago, one of my regular customers – Brenda – asked me to source a petrol-engined full-size estate to replace the Mercedes E-Class diesel estate which I sold her back in 2022, as she was driving more frequently into ULEZ zones and was fed up of paying the additional charges for a diesel vehicle.  Unable to find her a petrol E350, I instead sourced this rare petrol V70 through the trade.   However, circumstances conspired against us and the Volvo ended up taking much longer to prepare for sale than would usually be the case (see below!) – by which time, Brenda’s circumstances had changed again; instead she is moving house and so is going to hang on to her much-loved Mercedes estate.  Hence, the V70 is now unexpectedly available for sale.

Volvo V70 ownership in General

I’m a huge fan of the big Volvo estates – I have had several myself.  As a car dealer, I can pretty much have any car that I want, so it says something that my own “daily driver” is a V70.  I like the comfort, space, reliability and the sheer usefulness of the cars.  You can throw pretty much anything at it, and it just laps it up and gets on with it.  Trips to the tip, moving furniture, walking the dog, drive to the South of France etc etc – there’s never any drama or fuss – and at the end of it, you give the car a wash and vacuum it out, and it comes up looking great again.  My own V70 has now covered over 190k miles, but you wouldn’t know it – it drives like a car with a fraction of that mileage – and that’s my experience of my other Volvo Estates too – all of which have gone well past that sort of mileage before I’ve finally parted company with them.

Volvos generally have an enviable reputation in the trade for their solid build construction combined with excellent driving manners, interior refinement and outstanding comfort levels – particularly for the seats which are reckoned to be the best available at any price.  The V70 is no exception – it handles well, has good performance, and is one of the largest estate cars on the market. 

The large Volvo estate car has been around in various forms since the late 1960s, becoming the reference standard for such cars.  They have often been known as the “antique dealers’ car of choice” – as you can fit large pieces of furniture in them much more easily than most cars!  As mentioned above, I have personally had several – my current is my fourth – and they have all just been fabulous workhorses, coping brilliantly with everything that family life can throw at them. The whole raison d’etre of a V70 is its cavernous boot – with more than 800-litres of space with the rear seats up and around double that with the rear seats folded.  There’s also plenty of room in the car for five adults – and all the seats are comfortable and supportive. 

This generation of V70 was introduced in 2007 and ran through to 2016.  This example was first registered in September 2008, from the period when Ford owned Volvo.  That business relationship resulted in this model being introduced – as the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine is the same base engine fitted to the Focus ST; that’s no bad thing, as the engine delivers huge gobs of turbine smooth power right through the rev range, powering it to 60mph in only just over 8 secs and on to a maximum of 137mph (where legal of course!).  But this model was only available for around 20 months – between September 2007 and May 2009 – which makes this low-mileage example extremely rare now.

Specification of this example

This example is the range-topping SE Lux version, which brings smart styling coupled with high levels of standard equipment – and on this car, the first owner has ticked pretty-much every available extra in the book too.  I’ve ended up putting a few hundred miles onto the clock of this one, and it has behaved just as I would expect – the 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine is silky-smooth, quiet and powerful, and the road manners are as good as they all are.  

That 2.5-litre 5-cylinder 20-valve turbocharged petrol engine delivers a highly impressive 197bhp and 300NM torque – a torque figure you might normally associate with a high performing diesel engine!  It transmits this to the road via a 6-speed “Geartronic” automatic gearbox to the front wheels; the gearbox also has a manual override function for those times when you want to play.  According to the official fuel economy tests, it is good for 27.7mpg on the combined cycle and is Petrol Euro-4 standard which makes it ULEZ compliant too!  The car tax is pretty horrible at £735 per year (about £61 per month) – but at least you can console yourself that this is in line with the other high performance petrol cars from this period, and can be offset by all those savings in ULEZ charges!!

This car is the top-spec SE Lux trim, which brings you pretty much all the equipment that you could expect – not least because the first owner ticked almost every option box (except the one for a DVD player!).

The equipment roster goes on and on – but includes pop-up colour-screen satellite navigation (powered by a boot-mounted DVD reader), full leather interior with electrically adjustable heated front seats (with 3-position memory function for the driver’s seat), power operated tailgate, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry system, CD-player, front and rear foglamps, headlamp washers, electric windows all round, electrically adjustable, heated and powerfolding mirrors, rear parking sensors, 5-spoke 17” alloy wheels etc

There’s also a whole host of safety and security features, including driver’s, passenger’s, side and curtain air bags, dynamic spin traction control, ISOFIX seat mounts to the outer two rear seats, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), immobilizer, locking wheel nuts etc.

This car’s condition and history

This V70 is now in excellent condition throughout – ready to give excellent service to its new owner.  But it has taken quite a bit of work to get it to that position.

After its initial registration in September 2008, the first owner kept the car through to October 2011, when it changed hands with just under 30,000 miles recorded.  The next owner kept the car for the next ten years – until November 2021 – when it passed to the third and latest owner (a private individual based in Stoke on Trent), with around 70,000 miles recorded.  It was at that point when it seems that the service book got mixed up with another Volvo at the sales dealership – because the one that came to me with the car was originally issued to a different Volvo back in 2003.  To try and understand the service history of the car, I obtained firstly a printout from Volvo of its main agent history (two services with the first owner), and then phoned and spoke to the independent dealer who had stamped up that erroneous book during the ownership of the third owner.  That dealer verified that those service details did indeed relate to this car (they also match the MoT mileages), and they also confirmed that the cambelt and water pump was replaced in October 2023, at 77,587 miles. 

I then asked my mechanics to complete a thorough service and checkover, picking up and resolving all the points raised at the previous MoTs.  This was a substantial and costly exercise:- they replaced the starter motor (which was occasionally a bit sluggish), replaced brake pads all round, replaced rear suspension bushes, cleaned up and rustproofed all the rear suspension and subframe, and replaced two lazy door locks, in addition to changing the oil and all filters.  The bill for that came to over £1500 at trade rates.

They also tried to resolve an error with the rear parking sensors.  They initially diagnosed it as a faulty sensor, which we replaced.  The error remained.  Swapping the sensors found that the fault continued in the same location – so we then replaced the wiring loom to the back bumper – the problem remained.  We then replaced the parktronic (parking sensors) ECU with a secondhand part – the problem remained.  So we took the Volvo to the local Volvo independent specialist who found that they could not reprogramme the parktronic ECU.  A phone call to Volvo, and they quoted a different ECU part number – so we obtained one of those and fitted it – the problem remained and again the local specialist could not reprogramme it.  So finally, we took the car to a nearby Volvo technical specialist, who advised that we had to fit a brand new Volvo ECU, and then reprogramme it from scratch.  This finally resolved the fault – but by this time we had spent a further £750 and delayed getting the car ready by several months – by which time Brenda’s circumstances had changed and she no longer wanted the car….

So now the car is offered for sale, and we can be confident that its mechanical condition is all good, and reflecting its low mileage of 81,000.   I’ve also now consolidated the servicing history information (where we have been able to verify it) into a substitute service book, for ease of reference.

In addition to the servicing records, there is an MoT printout showing that the mileage has increased consistently throughout its ownership period.  A new MoT was completed in October, and so is valid until October 2026.  Since this was completed, the car has only covered a few miles.

The body condition is easier to summarise – there are no dents, scuffs or rusty bits to be found.  There are inevitably a few stone chips and light scratches commensurate with the age and mileage, but all in all the car presents very smartly indeed as can be seen from the photos.  Its metallic Sapphire Black paintwork is smooth and glossy to the touch, and is well complemented by the stylish five-spoke 17” alloy wheels.  Equally, the interior is smart, clean and well-presented, with the grey leather contrasting with the black paintwork.

As you would expect given all this refurbishment work, the Volvo now goes, performs, steers, stops etc, just as you would want and expect it to do.  It has also been fully valeted and Experian Data Checked (like HPI) and is clear, whilst noting that the car has previously been held on private registration plates twice.  An owner’s handbook is present, and like all our cars, the Volvo also comes with a 100-pt mechanical and functional inspection report.

The Motoring Press view

Giving it an excellent rating of four stars out of five, Parker’s Car Guide references its strong build quality, stylish and modern interior, supremely comfortable seats and impressive refinement as its top aspects, and comments:-

“Volvo is best known for large and practical estates and the V70 remains the core model for the manufacturer – a modern version of its archetypal load carrier.  On the road it’s comfortable and quiet, if not especially exciting to drive.  The seats – a traditional Volvo strength – are regarded by many as the most comfortable around, making it an ideal long distance car. The V70 dashboard has a more subtle, curvier design than before and also features the ‘floating’ centre console between the dashboard and centre console, a feature that has become a trademark of Volvo interiors. The finish and quality of the materials used is excellent while the classy design is typically Swedish with a minimalist, understated look. The V70 is roomier than before with almost an extra inch of leg room for those in the back. The exceptionally smooth and refined ride makes this a great long distance car, helped by minimal road and wind noise.

Volvo has long held a reputation for producing very safe cars and the V70 was awarded the maximum five star rating for adult occupant safety in Euro NCAP crash tests, along with four stars for child safety. Safety technology also includes head restraints better able to reduce the risk of whiplash injury in rear impacts, better energy absorbing properties at the front of the car to reduce the extent of injuries to pedestrians and cyclists, pre-tensioners on all five seatbelts and use of ultra-high-strength steel in the door beams.”

Equipment and Features
> Finished in Sapphire Black metallic paintwork, with grey full leather seats
> 2,521cc 5-cylinder 20-valve turbocharged fuel-injection petrol engine, producing 197bhp and 300Nm torque
> 6-speed “Geartronic” automatic gearbox, with manual override function
> Power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Dual Zone Climate Control air conditioning
> Volvo “Premium Sound” radio, with single in-dash CD player,  Bluetooth phone, roof-mounted shark-fin aerial, steering-wheel mounted radio controls, and integrated anti-theft protection
> 5-spoke 17” Canicula alloy wheels, with ultra-low-profile 50-section tyres
> Pop-up colour display satellite navigation system with remote control
> Electric windows front and rear with one-touch operation to all windows
> Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, with automatic powerfolding function
> Cruise Control
> Power operated tailgate
> Rear Parking sensors
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
> Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
> Dynamic Spin Traction Control
> Remote control central locking, with two full remote keys
> Keyless entry system
> Tinted windows
> Electrically operated and heated front seats, with three-position memory function for driver’s seat and lumbar adjustment to both front seats
> Three rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts and head restraints, and ISOFIX seat mountings to the outer two seats, and foldable in 40/20/40 format
> Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, side and curtain airbags
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Projector-style front headlamps with integrated high-pressure headlamp washer system
> Multifunction trip computer including current speed in kmh, average speed, instant mpg, average mpg and distance to empty
> Heated rear window
> Rear wash/wipe system
> Retractable rear luggage cover
> Integrated and foldable parcel net/dog guard
> 12v charger socket
> Tailored front and rear floormats
> Map pockets to rear of front seats
> Twin cupholders

History and Documentation
> The current mileage is showing as 81,284 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The Volvo comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 2^nd September 2008 and transferred to its second keeper on the 16^th October 2011.  That owner then kept it until 4^th November 2021 when it passed to its latest owner – so in total it has had three owners.
> The current MoT expires 25^th October 2026.  It was issued 11^th October 2025 at 81,283 miles, with no advisory items.   
> An MoT history printout shows the following MoTs:-
  29,539 miles;  15/10/2011 – no advisory items
  37,717 miles;  12/10/2012 – no advisory items
  41,347 miles;  11/10/2013 – no advisory items
  44,425 miles;  02/10/2014 – no advisory items
  47,167 miles;  12/10/2015 – advisory items for tyres
  50,076 miles;  19/10/2016 – no advisory items
  53,108 miles;  23/10/2017 – advisory for a side marker lamp not working
  56,353 miles;  13/10/2018 – advisory item for one tyre
  60,857 miles;  12/10/2019 – multiple advisory items
  65,628 miles;  26/10/2020 – multiple advisory items          
  69,742 miles;  13/10/2021 – multiple advisory items
  74,078 miles;  18/10/2022 – multiple advisory items
  77,590 miles;  16/10/2023 – multiple advisory items
  79,616 miles;  03/10/2024 – multiple advisory items
  81,283 miles;  11/10/2025 – no advisory items
> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems whilst advising that the car has been on a private registration plate on two occasions
> The car has been serviced at least five times – see details above.  These are documented in a printout from the Volvo Main Agent system, from two stamps in the erroneous service book, and a stamp from my mechanics in the new substitute service book, as follows:-
  10,665 miles;  01/09/2009 – Volvo Main Agent – system printout
  21,656 miles;  01/09/2010 – Volvo Main Agent – system printout
  77,587 miles;  16/10/2023 – Independent garage, service book stamp verified by phone call.  Service included cambelt and water pump replacement
  81,128 miles;  10/06/2025 – Independent garage (my mechanics), service book stamp
> An owners handbook is present, together with the erroneous Volvo service book and a substitute service book

Bodywork and Interior Condition
> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in excellent condition.  The Sapphire Black metallic paintwork is smooth and glossy to the touch, and there are no nasty scuffs, dents or rusty patches.  There are just a few touched-in stone chips and some light scratches to evidence the mileage.  The whole car presents very smartly.
> There is some minor deterioration to the roof rails and to the silver trim around the windows where the trim has tarnished
> The interior is in excellent condition, with no damage or wear to the seats
> Good condition floormats are fitted throughout 

Mechanical Condition and Wheels/Tyres
> The car has covered just over 81,000 miles.  It goes very well indeed – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect
 > All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should.
> The road wheels are five-spoke 17” alloys.  Two have very minor kerbing marks to the rims
> The road tyres are mostly budget brand tyres, in 225/50 x 17 size.  One front tyre is an Altimax and the other is a Goodyear Efficient Grip – each have 6mm-7mm of tread.  One rear tyre is a Delinte and the other is a Mazzini – each have 4mm-5mm of tread.  The spare wheel is a space saver wheel, fitted with an unused Continental 125/80×17 tyre, with 4mm of tread
> The locking wheel nut key is present

Summary

As it says above, as a car dealer, I really rate the Volvo V70 – and this is a terrific example in great condition.  The colour scheme, contrasting the metallic black with the grey leather interior and shiny alloy wheels, really works well.  The 2.5-litre turbocharged engine is smooth and refined and sounds great – and the performance is as good as you would expect!  This example has a fabulous equipment specification, including all those options – and then to cap it all off, the car has recorded only a very low 81,000 miles.  When you add on its recent MoT and service, and the thorough recommissioning, then it all adds up to make a very compelling case for itself

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell. Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.
Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard. However, we are agents for aftermarket warranty provider Handler Protect.
If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a comprehensive Handler Protect Gold Warranty for this Volvo V70, covering 100% of the parts and labour cost on all major components, and labour rates up to £60ph, at a cost of £275 for 7-months (6-months plus a bonus extra month) or £379 for 18-months (12-months plus a bonus additional 6-months). This will cover repair costs up to the value of the vehicle. Lower or higher levels of warranty cover are available for different premiums if preferred.
Please click on “our services” tab for more details.

Outstanding condition throughout, excellent service history, new MoT, fully valeted, with huge specification including paddle-shift sequential semi-automatic transmission, air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, 8-spoke 16” Abarth alloy wheels, Bluetooth infotainment unit, Sport mode and torque transfer control and much more! This is a fantastic opportunity to acquire one of the most-fun vehicles I’ve driven for some time, and in excellent condition!

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.
Twenty-four large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

Everyone loves a small sporty Fiat – my very first car was a Fiat 127 Sport, which I just loved to drive.  And Abarth are universally known for being bonkers – taking standard Fiat cars and turning them up to ‘11’.  Just watch on You Tube Jeremy Clarkson’s assessment of Abarth (4^th November 2024)…. I’m old enough to remember the original Abarth versions of the Fiat 600, so I’d always fancied trying out one of these newer Abarth 595s.  I saw this one advertised for sale through the trade, so I snapped it up.

With just three former keepers, low mileage, full history, and in the best colour combination of black with black interior (just like my 127 Sport from the 1980s!), I wanted to give this a try!

Once I’d bought it, I wondered if I had made a mistake, buying a semi-automatic version.  That was until I drove it… It is just a HOOT to drive!  And the semi-automatic Tiptronic sequential gearbox, rather than being a hindrance, is a huge bonus!!  Put it into Sport mode and drive the car on the paddle-shift, and the changes are almost instantaneous, without distracting you from the task of hammering the car into the next corner and whooping with fun!  I love it.  It even reminds me of the careless fun I used to have in my 127 Sport, forty years ago!

I’ve driven this car around for a little while, and every journey is an adventure.  It sounds hugely purposeful, corners like it is on rails, handles like a go-cart, and accelerates like a bullet.  My 92-year old mother learned to drive in an original Fiat 500, still owns a new-version 500, and even she insisted on being given a trip out in the Abarth, just to experience it!!

Although the ride is quite firm, it never feels harsh, and if you want to cruise around it is a comfortable place in which to do so. The seats are very supportive and comfy, there’s plenty of room in the cabin despite its small exterior size, there’s all the equipment that you could want, and the stereo is good too!  Outside, the styling cues from the original Fiat 500 from the 1970s are still evocative, set-off by touches like the Abarth Scorpion logo on the wheel centres, the yellow-painted brake calipers, body kit, unique 16” alloy wheels and so on.

Abarth 595 Ownership in General

There aren’t many hot hatches left these days… but of those that are, the Abarth is a class-leader.  It’s renowned for its driving style, road manners, and just sheer good fun.  One reviewer online describes it as “a total funbox on wheels”… I couldn’t have put it better myself!

The Abarth 595 was introduced in 2012, following on from a sporty-version of the 500 which ran from 2008.  This design was then facelifted several times (in 2013, 2015 and 2016) and so this version from 2017 is generally considered to be the “Series 4”.   This brought revised styling to the lights, bumpers and to the interior with the upgraded infotainment unit.

As you might expect, motoring reviewers generally focus on the driving experience (and universally acknowledge it to be one of the best, most-fun things to do on four wheels), whilst grumbling about the hard ride (although I didn’t find it to be so) and small interior space.  It’s all about the experience – and here you get to enjoy it without breaking the bank!

This example is the 595, which wrings 144bhp and 206NM torque out of its 1368cc four cylinder petrol injection turbo-charged engine.  Handily, there is a boost gauge fixed to the dashboard so that you can see the effect of the turbo – it is limited to 0.8 bar in standard mode, but released up to 1.2 bar in Sport mode (when the exhaust is also opened up).  In Sport mode, you can also call up the “G sensor” in the dashboard, and watch the effect of honing about on fast A-roads and back roads.

In practice, this means that the 0-60mph dash comes up in just over 7 secs, with a top speed of around 130mph.  This is delivered through the 5-speed MTA gearbox (see “specification” below!), and whereas many cars feel like they aren’t as fast as the numbers suggest, in this case the reverse is true.  The whole experience feels like you are flying along, even when you aren’t!

The Abarth treatment also brings the smart body-kit of side skirts, roof mounted spoiler, and sporty front and rear bumpers – all to complement the lowered suspension and wider wheels.  It might look sporty and dynamic from the outside – but this car really has the ability to live up to that promise!  That’s further enhanced by the Torque Transfer Control (TTC) button; this mimics a limited slip differential, transferring torque between the wheels in hard cornering and ensuring that the inner wheel doesn’t spin whilst adding more power to the outer wheel, preventing understeer.  It just turns the fun factor up beyond 11, to maybe 12… or 13…

And when you’ve enjoyed all that sportiness, you can comfort yourself in the high equipment levels – cloth and alcantara seats, electric mirrors and windows, air conditioning, Bluetooth phone and audio, DAB radio, split-folding rear seats, front and rear foglamps, and glossy anthracite-painted 8-spoke alloy wheels.

A note of sense for a moment, so that you can convince everyone else who matters that this really is a sensible purchase:- it is Euro 6 compliant, ULEZ compliant, car tax is only £195 a year, and the combined fuel economy is 48.7mpg and a cold urban economy of 37.2mpg.  There.  All very sensible and justifiable.

Specification of this example

Let’s start with that gearbox.  It’s a five-speed MTA box.   Google AI is helpful here:- “MTA gearbox stands for Mechanical Transmission Automatized.  The owner’s manual, somewhat amusingly, refers to it as “robotized sequential transmission”!  It’s a type of automated manual transmission that uses electro-hydraulic actuators to control a standard manual gearbox and clutch, so the driver doesn’t need to operate the clutch pedal or shifter. This system provides either an automatic or a manual shift mode, often through paddle shifters, but is based on a traditional mechanical setup”

Ok – so what does that mean in practice?  It’s essentially a five-speed manual gearbox, with an electrically operated clutch.  You can put it in “automatic” mode, where it will change gears by itself, or you can leave it in “manual” mode and change them using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.  These gearboxes are now commonplace, particularly in smaller cars.  It’s a system that is particularly suited to smaller cars, as it is barely any physically bigger than a small manual box, only adds minimal additional weight, and can actually improve overall fuel consumption.  That’s all a win-win.  In this case, though, the biggest win is that changes become snap-sharp – no faffing about and taking hands off the steering wheel to change manually – and you’ll find yourself (as I did) changing up and down the box just for the fun of it.  Let’s face it, all modern supercars use this sort of set-up these days, so to diss it as a “slushbox” is just not fair. 
The downside is that this type of gearbox is not as smooth in automatic mode as a more traditional fluid-drive fully automatic box, particularly at slower speeds and when moving away from rest – in effect, the automation is having to lift off the acceleration, engage the clutch, change the gear, and re-apply the acceleration, just as you would have to in a manual car.  Changes therefore become smoother once you understand this and work with it, lifting off a little when you feel the car is ready to change gear. 

The paragraphs above tell you what to expect in terms of performance, roadholding and handling, so I won’t repeat them here.  Best to come and experience it for yourself!

Equipment-wise, it’s got everything that you really need – electric front windows, electric mirrors, remote central locking, 16” alloy wheels, air conditioning, Torque Transfer Control, decent DAB stereo with Bluetooth and app compliance including Apple Car play and Android Auto, front and rear foglamps, trip computer, Sport driving mode, split folding rear seats, high-back front seats etc.

There’s also a whole host of safety features, including air bags all round, traction control, ISOFIX seat mounts to the outer two rear seats, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), tyre-pressure monitoring system, immobilizer, locking wheel nuts etc.

This car’s condition

It’s immediately apparent that this Abarth has been well looked after.  There’s plenty of stamps in the service book, and several receipts from specialist service providers to back them up.  The paintwork is smooth and glossy, with no tree sap or bird lime damage, and there’s no kerbing scuffs to any of the wheels.   There’s a tiny dent in the leading edge of the bonnet (might be caused by a stone or something that has been dropped onto it), and a few chips and light scratches as you would expect at this age and mileage, but there aren’t any scuffs, scrapes or dents.  The whole car presents very well.

Inside is very smart throughout too – with no obvious wear to the seats.  Everything works as it should.

The recorded mileage of just over 55,000 is warranted to be correct, and this is evidenced by both the MoT mileages recorded, and the servicing records which align to those mileages.  The first owner is shown as having kept the car until October 2020, by which time it had recorded just over 10,000 miles.  The second owner then took it on to March 2022, when it was sold through specialists Alpha & Yapps Garages of Cardiff with a recorded mileage of 26,465 miles.  The third owner has kept it since then, before trading it in to a Citroen main agent, who I bought it from.

There’s a comprehensive service history recorded in the service book.  This shows six services, with my mechanics having completed the last one when I bought the car into stock in June this year, with 55,339 miles.  At that time we also replaced the rear brake pads.  The previous servicing invoices with the car also show that the cambelt was replaced in January 2024 at 43,500 miles.  There is also a substantial receipt from July 2023 at 38,600 miles, when the steering rack arms, steering box, front discs and pads, shock absorber and a complete set of tyres were replaced.

There’s an MoT history printout with the car, of which the only item of note is those steering rack arms which were advised in January 2023 and replaced in the July of that year.  The current MoT has just been completed, on the 27th October 2025 at 55,590 miles and is valid through to the 26th October 2026.

As you would expect given this attention to maintenance, the Abarth goes, performs, steers, stops etc, just as you would want and expect it to do.

The Abarth has also been fully valeted and Experian Data Checked (like HPI) and is clear.  The owner’s handbook is present, along with the service book and reference cards for the audio system and for the International Security Register. Like all our cars, the Abarth also comes with a 100-pt mechanical and functional inspection report.

The Motoring Press view

Parker’s Car Guide praises its handling and entertainment factor, and further comments:-

“The Abarth 595 is one of the few remaining small hot hatchbacks on the market.
It’s been around since 2008 and, over the past 16 years, Abarth has steadily refined the car’s formula with a series of incremental performance, handling and equipment upgrades to keep it competitive in its class. 

Like the Fiat 500 on which it’s based, the Abarth 595 is very small car. Headroom in the front is good, but elbow room is a bit neat. Just keep your arms tucked in when driving spiritedly – if you’re too exuberant, you’ll bash them on the door cards.  If you’re an adult, you’ll be quite uncomfortable in the back. Headroom is tight and the bench is rather narrow, so you’d better be on good terms with whoever you’re sharing it with. However, there’s a surprising amount of legroom.   With the rear seats in place, there’s 185 litres of boot space. So don’t buy an Abarth if you regularly need to transport wardrobes.  You can liberate a little more space by folding the rear seats flat. That increases the amount of storage space to 550 litres, which is pretty good considering the Abarth’s dinky dimensions. 

Every Abarth 595 comes with a circular digital gauge cluster and a 7.0-inch infotainment system perched atop the dashboard. That almost sounds disappointing – but we found the Abarth’s screen rather refreshing.  It doesn’t occupy as much of your field of view, which leaves more space in your vision for the road ahead.

Look, you don’t buy an Abarth 595 to be comfortable. You buy one because you enjoy driving. So we think it’s a little pointless to complain that the cabin isn’t as well-equipped as a Maybach’s and the seats are less squishy than a Range Rover’s. It’s a pocket-sized race car. It’s supposed to be uncomfortable.  if you consider the front seats in isolation, they’re actually quite comfortable. They have a good amount of lumbar and lateral support, but they’re accommodating enough to give your head and arms full range of movement.

Abarth’s 1.4-litre four-cylinder is an excitable little engine that’s great fun to work hard. It delivers its power in quite an old-fashioned way – the turbo lays dormant until around 3,000rpm, before cramming all its boost down the engine’s gullet in one go and launching you at the horizon. There’s a very satisfying parp from the exhaust as the turbo comes on song, too.

What’s it like to drive? Hilarious. It lacks the finesse of the Ford Fiesta ST and Hyundai i20 N, but there’s something intoxicating about its brutish attitude. The 595’s steering is sharp and transmits plenty of feedback from the road to the wheel. The suspension is well-judged, too, being firm enough to keep the car flat when cornering but just soft enough to not batter your kidneys on the motorway.  Every Abarth feels nimble and darty on a B-road.  However, the car is always a little unsettled. It’s more difficult to adjust your line mid corner than it is in the Fiesta or the i20, while fast mid-corner bumps can make the chassis hop.

Every Abarth also comes with a clever cornering gadget called Torque Transfer Control (TTC). Basically, it’s a rudimentary torque vectoring system that brakes the inside wheel through corners to tighten the car’s line and help the driver carry more speed through turns. It works very well indeed but, like everything else about the Abarth driving experience, it’s rather thuggish in its delivery. If you’re a little too exuberant with the throttle, for example, you’ll spin both front wheels on your way out of a bend when the brakes release and allow all the engine’s torque to run rampant in the wheel arches. It’s enormous fun, but it’s also a sure-fire way to get your collar tugged by the local constabulary if you use it in the wrong place.

We’ve thoroughly tested the Abarth 595’s reliability – and we’re pleased to report there’s little to worry about. 

Should you buy an Abarth 595?

If you want a hot hatchback that’ll set your pulse racing every time you get behind the wheel, then absolutely.  The Ford Fiesta ST or Hyundai i20N offer a more composed driving experience, bigger boots, larger cabins and more comfortable driving positions.  But we reckon it’s worth sacrificing those creature comforts for the excitement the Abarth 595 offers, especially if you’re only buying one as a weekend toy. It’s loud, brash and unsophisticated – and in today’s rapidly electrifying (and increasingly sterile) car market, the Abarth’s raw character is enough to give it an edge over its rivals.  The Abarth 595 is a hoot to drive. It’s quick in a straight line, and entertaining in the corners. It also drips with character and is easily the most engaging car to drive in its class thanks to its complete lack of driver assistance technology and old-school mechanicals.  You’ll struggle to get anything bigger than a weekend bag in the boot. But when it’s this fun to drive, who cares?!

In fact, if you’re a petrolhead looking for a more analogue experience, we think this is the best small hatch on sale for you.

Online reviewer Dedoimedo also summarized it well:-

 A rowdy, sporty car with phenomenal handling, laser-sharp nose, precise steering, lively yet controllable read end, superb dynamics that go way beyond the pure technical data of acceleration and top speed, and finally, that sweet, sweet engine growl. Driving an Abarth isn’t about finesse. It’s about wild, illogical feelings.

Equipment and Features

> Finished in Carbon Black paintwork, with charcoal fabric and alcantara seats
> 1,368cc 4-cylinder turbocharged fuel-injection petrol engine, producing 144bhp and 206Nm torque
> 5-speed MTA Sequential Semi-automatic gearbox, with paddle-shift
> Electric power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Manual air conditioning
> Fiat infotainment and multi-media system, DAB radio, full Bluetooth integration for phone and music, integrated apps, USB and aux input sockets, roof-mounted bee-sting aerial, steering-wheel mounted radio controls, and integrated anti-theft protection
> 8-spoke 16” alloy wheels, painted in anthracite gloss
> Switchable “Sport” driving mode including G-sensor display
> Electric front windows with one-touch operation to both windows
> Electrically adjustable door mirrors
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
> Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
> Electronic Stability Control (ESC) including switchable Torque Transfer Control (TTC)
> Tyre pressure monitoring system
> Remote control central locking, with one full remote key and one fixed-blade manual key
> Tinted windows
> Two rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts and head restraints, and ISOFIX seat mountings
> 50/50 split rear seats
> Height adjustable steering wheel
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, and side airbags
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Daytime running lights
> Sport yellow-painted brake calipers
> Multifunction trip computer including mileage and time since reset, average mpg, current mpg, distance to empty, and average speed since reset
> Heated rear window
> Rear wash/wipe system
> Rear luggage cover
> Cigarette lighter
> Tailored front and rear floormats
> Twin cupholders

History and Documentation

> The current mileage is showing as 55,574 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The Abarth comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 30^th June 2017 and transferred to its second keeper on the 21^st October 2020.  That owner then kept it until 30^th March 2022 when it passed to its latest owner – so in total it has had three owners.
> The current MoT expires 26th October 2026.  It was issued 25th October 2025 at 55,590 miles, with no advisory items.   This MoT was completed earlier than it was due, to give a new MoT on sale of the car, rather than it being due in January 2026.
> An MoT history printout shows the following MoTs:-
  11,651 miles;  21/10/2020 – no advisory items
  26,490 miles;  22/01/2022 – no advisory items      
  34,010 miles;  13/01/2023 – advisory items for steering rack joints and a tyre defect
  43,522 miles;  11/01/2024 – advisory for a cracked fog lamp, a chip to the windscreen and an excessively tinted window
  52,899 miles;  10/01/2025 – no advisory items
> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems
> The car has been serviced six times, recorded in the service book, and some additional servicing receipts as follows:-
    5,648 miles;  01/04/2019 – Independent garage, service book stamp
  10,947 miles;  20/09/2020 – Independent garage, service book stamp
  26,490 miles;  20/03/2022 – Independent garage, service book stamp
  34,010 miles;  13/01/2023 – Independent garage, service book stamp and receipt
  38,674 miles;  14/07/2023 – Independent garage – steering rack arms; brake discs and pads; shock absorber, tyres – receipt
  43,522 miles;  12/01/2024 – Independent garage – service and cambelt replacement, and spark plug replacement – service book stamp and receipt
  44,577 miles;  15/02/2024 – Independent garage – wheel bearing replacement – receipt
  55,339 miles;  12/06/2025 – Independent garage (my mechanics), service book stamp
> The owners handbook and service book are both present

Bodywork and Interior Condition

> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in excellent condition.  The Carbon Black paintwork is smooth and glossy.  There are no nasty scuffs, dents or rusty patches.  There are just a few touched-in stone chips and some light scratches to evidence the mileage.  There is a small mark to the leading edge of the bonnet – could be a stone chip or where something has been dropped onto it.  The whole car presents very smartly.
> There is some minor deterioration to the Abarth badges
> The interior is equally in excellent condition, with no damage or wear to the seats
> Good condition floormats are fitted throughout. 

Mechanical Condition and Wheels/Tyres

> The car has covered just over 55,000 miles.  It goes very well indeed – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect
 > All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should.
> The road wheels are eight-spoke 16” alloys.  None has any kerbing damage.  They are painted in high-gloss anthracite grey paintwork.
> The road tyres are all budget brand tyres, in 195/45 x16 size.  The front tyres are a pair of ThunderUO9 tyres with between 5mm/6mm.  The rear tyres are a pair of Rapid Eco819 tyres with between 4mm/5mm tread.  There is no spare wheel as a tyre inflation kit is provided.
> The locking wheel nut key is present

Summary

Just wow – what a fabulous opportunity.  I’ve been a car dealer for many many years now, and there are only a small handful of cars that I have really enjoyed driving to the extent that I wanted to go back out and drive them again – and this is one of them.  It’s so evocative of the fun that I used to have 40-years ago in my 127 Sport – except that this is a whole lot faster!  Yes, you have to make do without some creature comforts like cruise control, heated seats or parking sensors – but that’s not what this car is about.  It’s all about the fun driving experience, and it delivers that in bucket-fulls.
It’s in the best colour combination, looks superb, it’s in great condition throughout, it has been serviced, had the cambelt replaced, low mileage, spotless Experian data check, and has a new MoT.  What’s not to like?

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell.  Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.  Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard.  However, we are agents for the industry-leading warranty provider – Warranty Wise (Warranty Provider of the Year 2024 for the fourth year running!).  
If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a comprehensive WarrantyWise top-spec Gold vehicle warranty for this Abarth 595, covering 100% of the repair cost on all major components, at labour rates of up to £75ph, at a cost of £275 for 6-months, £399 for 12-months, or £699 for 24-months.  It will cover repair costs up to £3000 for any individual claim, and up to a combined maximum of the purchase cost of the vehicle.   
Lower levels of warranty cover are available at lower cost if preferred.
Please click on “our services” above for more details.

Outstanding condition throughout, with full BMW Main Agent service history, long MoT, fully valeted, with huge specification including 8-speed automatic transmission, dual zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, leather upholstery, parking sensors all round, colour reversing camera, heated multi-way adjustable sports seats, upgraded stereo, touch screen colour satellite navigation, 19” alloy wheels, electric powerfolding mirrors, BMW Connected Drive, and much more!  This is a terrific opportunity to acquire an uber-stylish sports touring estate in perfect condition!

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.
Twenty-four large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

This BMW 320d MSport Tourer has been owned for the last three years by my friend Adam and his family.  With the arrival of a new baby, Adam’s previous Mini was no longer fit for purpose, so I took his Mini into stock and sold that on his behalf, and Adam bought this BMW as an Approved Used BMW from Barons BMW of Cambridge.  At that time, two-and-a-half years old, it had just on 40,000 miles on the clock.

Adam has continued to use the BMW, although living in East London his local travel was always by tube, which has kept the mileage relatively low on the car.  The BMW has been used for a couple of extended continental trips, and for occasional runs to Scotland to visit his family.  During this time, Adam has enjoyed the use of an underground car park with his apartment, which has kept the car free from the usual London city parking dings and scrapes, and out of direct sunlight which has preserved the glossy shiny to the paintwork.

Recently, Adam moved flat and has now lost his underground parking space.  With no continental road trips on the horizon, Adam felt that the best solution is to part company with the BMW, and to use rental cars on the rare occasions that he will need a car for the immediate future.  Hence, I was pleased to take the 3-series into stock and now offer it for sale.

During Adam’s ownership, the BMW has performed faultlessly, as you might expect.  It has provided a perfect blend of sporty motoring with space for all the usual family kit such as a pushchair and baby seat!  As an audiophile and music graduate, Adam has also appreciated the upgraded audio system in this car – it certainly sounds pretty good to me too!

I collected the car from East London and drove it back to the Cotswolds, and it impressed me very much.  The ride is firm, without being uncomfortable, and the pay-off for this is excellent roadholding and handling – as you might expect from a BMW!  There is every creature comfort that you could want, and the interior is airy and spacious.  The boot is well sized and shaped, and the exterior styling is smart and modern.  As you would expect, everything works as it should, and with a precision and quality feel that can only be German manufacture.

BMW 3-Series Ownership in General

The BMW 3-series has been THE definitive executive car for more than 50-years, and has been around in many forms – saloon, Gran Turismo, coupe, convertible and this, the iconic 5-dr Estate, or Tourer.  Originally introduced way back in 1975, the 3-series redefined the genre of executive transport – truly representing that a younger professional had “arrived”.  It achieved this through class-leading style, build quality and performance, matched to slick handling and roadholding, high quality comfort and exceptional equipment levels.  It quickly attained, and has since remained, the aspirational car of the class, and the benchmark against which all other similar sized cars are judged.

The 3-series has been a consistent and repeated winner of motoring awards throughout that 50-year period and across all its seven generations – featuring on Car and Driver magazine’s annual “10 best” list no less than 22 times; and more recently in 2021 What Car? Awarded it five stars out of five in its review.

This example is the Tourer – a stylish 5-door estate combining plenty of room for five passengers together with their luggage or dog!  It may not be the biggest estate – for that you would want a Volvo or maybe the bigger 5-series estate – but it’s plenty big enough for most dogs, pushchairs or similar.  It’s an example of the latest seventh generation G20 designation, introduced in 2019 (and subsequently facelifted in 2022). 

Like all German manufactured cars, it is strong on design, build quality and driveability.  It has a fantastic reputation in the trade for its reliability, the way that all the switchgear and controls function with such precision, and then for the great way that it drives.  The performance and handling really sets that benchmark for the other cars in the class – and that is especially true of the M Sport variant.  This trim level brings a sportier aesthetic and driving experience – one step short, perhaps, of a M-Series (but equally, it doesn’t bring the insurance and maintenance costs of a M-Series!).  You get a sportier body look, highly supportive and adjustable sports seats, and – in this model – an individually configurable driving style encompassing damping, steering, engine and transmission settings.

And when you’ve finished setting up the way that the car drives, you can luxuriate in its equipment levels – with a list of features that is almost never-ending…. Leather upholstery, colour touch-screen infotainment/sat nav screen, cruise control, LED headlamps, powered tailgate, keyless start, 19” alloy wheels, powerfolding mirrors, dual-zone climate control, access to BMW Driver Services, and an upgraded Hertz Digital Sound Signal Processor.  Accessing the features on the infotainment screen is easiest by using the rotary iDrive controller which features on many BMWs.

This example is the 320d – that’s BMW-speak for a 3-series, with a two-litre diesel engine.  That rather undersells it – it is a 4-cylinder 16-valve 2.0-litre turbocharged double-overhead camshaft diesel engine, producing 187bhp and 400NM of torque. That’s enough to propel it to 142mph (where legal of course!), with the 0-60mph dash coming up in under 7 secs.  That engine is coupled to a silky-smooth 8-speed automatic gearbox.  These work together to deliver all that performance, and yet a WLTP combined fuel economy figure of 50.4 mpg – very impressive! 
The 117g/km of CO2 emissions means that road tax is just £195 per year, and according to the v5, the period of additional charge for having had an original list price over £40k has just expired – phew!

Specification of this example

This BMW is fitted with the highly efficient and economical, yet very powerful, 1995cc 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel injection engine, developing 187bhp and a crushing 400NM torque.  It’s also euro 6 standard, for ULEZ compliance.  As you would expect from a BMW, it performs really well on the open road, accelerating with ease and then settling to a comfortable cruise.  The eight-speed automatic gearbox works very smoothly, with indistinguishable, yet responsive gear changes.

This M Sport example comes well up the specification range, offering a more individual sporty style than the more commonly found SE or Sport specifications.  It brings lower, stiffer suspension for a more engaging driving experience, snazzier styling cues such as the blue coloured brake calipers, and multi-way adjustable sports seats designed to hold you firmly in place when you are trying out that enhanced suspension!

The trim level brings with it a whole host of standard equipment, and there are some well chosen options in this example too.  Externally, you get Metallic Sapphire Black paintwork, set off by the 10-spoke 19” alloy wheels with ultra-low profile tyres, and slimline LED headlamps.  Inside, you are immediately drawn to the multi-way adjustable Charcoal leather heated front seats with contrasting white stitching details, before you settle in to the seat and take in features such as the colour touchscreen infotainment, screen mirroring and Satellite Navigation screen, cruise control with speed limiter, configurable main dashboard display, automatic gearbox with paddle-shift and manual override features, colour reversing camera with parking sensors all round, electric windows all round, electric powerfolding mirrors, automatic lights and wipers, keyless start, BMW Assistance and access to BMW Services, dual zone climate control, adaptive driving styles, and the upgraded Hertz stereo system. 

There’s also a whole host of safety features, including air bags all round, traction control, ISOFIX seat mounts to the outer two rear seats, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, Emergency brake assist, lane departure warning, immobilizer, alarm, locking wheel nuts, first aid kit, warning triangle etc. This generation 3-Series also boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

This car’s condition

It’s immediately evident that this BMW has been well looked after.  Whilst Adam has owned it, the car has been in an underground car park most of its time, which has saved the paintwork from any tree sap, bird lime or sunlight damage.  There aren’t any trolley dents that I could see, and obviously no scuffs or scrapes anywhere.  There are a couple of minor stone chips and light scratches, as you would expect at this mileage – but the whole car presents itself very smartly throughout. 

There some minor corrosion and very slight kerbing to two of the alloy wheels, but it isn’t significant and isn’t at a level that justifies refurbishment.

The recorded mileage of just under 55,000 is warranted to be correct, and this is evidenced by both the MoT mileages recorded, and the servicing records which align to those mileages.  The first owner is shown as having kept the car for only eight months and covered 6,300 miles – so it may well have been a demonstrator during that period.  The next owner then kept it for the next couple of years, until Adam bought it with just on 40,000 miles on the clock.  Since then, it has been only lightly used, adding about another 5000 miles each year.

There’s a comprehensive BMW Main Agent service history shown in the onboard computer.  This shows four services with the last one at 47,525 miles, and two brake fluid services.  The system indicates that the next servicing attention required is an oil change in 10,000 miles time.  Despite this, I’ve had my mechanics give the car a full inspection, which showed no issues.  As with almost all BMWs, the camshaft is chain driven, so there is no cambelt to worry about.

The MoT history is also full and clean, passing first time without any advisories on the three MoT tests completed so far.

As you would expect given this attention to maintenance, the BMW goes, performs, steers, stops etc, just as you would want and expect it to do.

The BMW has also been fully valeted and Experian Data Checked (like HPI) and is clear.  The owner’s handbook is held within the car infotainment system, together with the servicing records.  Like all our cars, the BMW also comes with a 100-pt mechanical and functional inspection report.

The Motoring Press view

Giving it an excellent rating of 4.3 stars out of 5, Parker’s Car Guide praises its driving quality, design touches, comfort and its excellent infotainment system, and further comments:-

“The BMW 3 Series Touring certainly does a brilliant job of combining premium-grade comfort and tech with a satisfying driving experience and all-purpose practicality. In that regard, it offers pretty much exactly the same package as the 3-series saloon, with the added appeal of a bigger, more flexible boot. The BMW 3 Series Touring is more than spacious enough for most families and can seat four adults in comfort. It’s a similar story in the back. We found a six-foot plus passenger fits comfortably behind someone of equal height; they’ll also appreciate the bit of extra headroom the Touring has over the saloon thanks to its flat roof line. Several of our testers have done extremely long journeys in the BMW 3 Series Touring and had no complaints about how comfortable it is. The sports seats fitted to certain models are particularly supportive, holding you in place better when going round corners. Back seat passengers aren’t forgotten, either – their seats are almost as comfortable as the fronts. The 3 Series Touring has 500 litres of boot space – a smidge more than the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes C-Class estate.
Nearly two thirds of UK buyers order the M Sport trim level, which has its own style of bumpers front and rear as well as firmer, lower sports suspension as standard. Material and build quality are as high as you’d expect. Everything you touch most often feels nice and tactile, and the whole interior feels like even the most determined children won’t be able to disassemble it.
The 320d has 190hp and 400Nm and we think it’s the best option in the whole 3 Series range, delivering ample performance and excellent fuel economy. It combines lithe agility in town and on country roads with safe and stable cruising in a way that our testers agree few cars of any sort can match. The steering is responsive and accurate – the car feels balanced in corners and completely tied-down when the going gets bumpy. You can tune the driving experience to your tastes by cycling through the various drive modes. They range from Eco Pro to Sport Plus; the former limits throttle responsiveness to improve fuel efficiency, the latter sharpens everything up. The modes make a genuinely noticeable difference and all of our testers have their favourite.
The 3 Series Touring is impressively quiet when cruising along. Every model has double glazing as standard, the interior is hushed at all speeds, and that makes long journeys very relaxing. The car can feel more like a hot hatch than a family estate car, but the suspension never becomes jarring. Add it all together and the 3 Series Touring is deeply satisfying to drive on any road. Though, despite it being so good on a country road, we think it really comes into its own on motorways. You can sink into the car’s comfort, refinement and easy-going power. And then have a bit of fun on the last cross-country bit before your destination. None of rivals come close to offering a similar experience, either. The driving experience is not only fun, but adaptable. This is a car that handles corners with rare enthusiasm, but can also be a comfortable cruiser when required. It’s quiet, untroubled by vibrations and easy to drive, while engines offer strong performance with often surprising fuel efficiency. Buying used, the dearly departed 320d is arguably the best fit of any engine available in the 3 Series Touring, with its ample performance, hushed refinement and a real-world 50mpg.
Being a premium brand, BMW’s servicing charges aren’t exactly cheap, but they’re not outrageous either. Although BMW’s current reputation for reliability varies from model to model, the whole 3 Series range is proving to be very reliable. Indeed, it has topped Parkers sister title Fleet News’ FN50 reliability survey several times. The survey looks at the reliability of the vehicles in company car fleets, which generally do big miles at high motorway speeds, which is a stern test. Our owner reviews suggest people really like their 3 Series Tourings, as well.
This is a very clever car, packed with lots of intelligently thought-out solutions.  There’s a reason for this cleverness, and it’s because the BMW 3 Series is a bit like the VW Golf – both are the product of decades of whittling – with each generation leaving behind what doesn’t work and improving what does.
That means the 320d is arguably all the 3 Series you need unless you want an M3. Models in between, as nice as they may be, are not as well-rounded as this model because it offers just enough of everything – power, refinement, economy and luxury.

Should you buy one?
Yes.   In short, the BMW 3 Series Touring is as good as it gets in this class.  In many ways, the BMW 3 Series Touring is one of the best estate cars. While it can’t offer you the higher driving position of an SUV, its broad combination of driving appeal, practicality, image and technical sophistication makes it suitable for a wide range of uses and buyers, and we feel that you’re very unlikely to be disappointed if you choose one.
In short, the 3 Series Touring sets an exceptional standard, and genuinely offers buyers the best of many worlds despite its advancing years.  It makes for an excellent family car. Its combination of driving appeal, practicality, image and quality makes it one of the very best estate cars you can buy.”

Equipment and Features

> Finished in Sapphire Black Metallic paintwork, with charcoal leather seats with white contrasting stitching
> 1,995cc 4-cylinder turbocharged fuel-injection diesel engine, producing 187bhp and 400Nm torque
> 8-speed Automatic gearbox, with manual option and paddle-shift
> Power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Dual Zone Climate control air conditioning
> Colour satellite navigation system
> BMW infotainment and multi-media system, enhanced with a Hertz H8DSP Digital Signal Processor, full Bluetooth integration for phone and music, colour touchscreen operation, screen mirroring, USB input socket, roof-mounted shark-fin aerial, steering-wheel mounted radio controls, and integrated anti-theft protection
> 10-spoke (5xtwin spoke) 19” alloy wheels
> Electric front and rear windows with one-touch operation on all windows
> Electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors with automatic powerfolding
> Power operated tailgate
> Front and rear parking sensors with audible warning and colour rear reversing camera
> Cruise Control with speed limiter
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with auto hold
> Active intelligent emergency brake assist
> Traction Control / Electronic Stability Control
> Lane departure warning
> Individually configurable driving mode – Comfort/Eco/Sport/Adaptive, with Sport being further individually configurable for damping, steering, engine and transmission settings
> Electric parking brake
> Remote control central locking, with two full remote controls
> Tinted windows
> Three rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts and head restraints, and ISOFIX seat mountings to the outer two seats
> Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
> Configurable dashboard display
> Speed sign identification
> Multiway adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s sports seats including lumbar control
> Heated front seats
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, and side airbags
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Daytime running lights
> LED headlamps
> Automatic lights and automatic wipers
> Sport blue-painted brake calipers
> Keyless Start
> Engine start/stop system
> Multifunction trip computer including mileage since reset, average mpg, distance to empty, average speed, and fuel used since reset
> Access to BMW Assistance
> Access to BMW Connected Services
> Driver’s manual via dashboard system
> Service history via dashboard system
> Rear tailgate window separately opening independent of the tailgate
> Heated rear window
> Rear wash/wipe system
> Rear luggage cover
> Integrated and removeable parcel net/dog guard
> 12v charging points
> Tailored front and rear floormats
> Twin cupholders
> Puddle lights
> First Aid kit and warning triangle
> Integrated anti-theft alarm

History and Documentation

> The current mileage is showing as 54,789 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The BMW comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 11^th February 2020 and transferred to its second keeper on the 9^th November 2020.  That owner then kept it until 2^nd September 2022 when it passed to its latest owner – so in total it has had three owners.
> The current MoT expires 7^th March 2026.  It was issued 27^th February 2025 at 53,529 miles, with no advisory items.   
> An MoT history printout shows the following MoTs:-
  42,172 miles;  09/02/2023 – no advisory items
  47,527 miles;  08/03/2024 – advisory only that a child seat was fitted
  53,529 miles;  27/02/2025 – no advisory items
> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems
> The car has been serviced four times at a BMW Main Agent, and a further two brake fluid services. These are in the onboard service record, as follows:-
         10 miles;  06/02/2020 – BMW Main Agent – Pre delivery inspection
  16,487 miles;  16/06/2021 – BMW Main Agent – Service
  32,818 miles;  10/02/2022 – BMW Main Agent – Service
  40,054 miles;  01/09/2022 – BMW Main Agent – Brake fluid service
  42,171 miles;  09/02/2023 – BMW Main Agent – Service
  47,525 miles;  07/03/2024 – BMW Main Agent – Service
  53,185 miles;  08/01/2025 – BMW Main Agent – Brake fluid service
> The owners handbook is held within the onboard computer system

Bodywork and Interior Condition

> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in excellent condition.  There are no nasty scuffs, dents or rusty patches.  There are just a few touched-in stone chips to evidence the mileage.  The whole car presents very smartly.
> The interior is equally like new.  There are original equipment floormats throughout. 

Mechanical Condition and Wheels/Tyres

> The car has covered just under 55,000 miles.  It goes very well indeed – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect
 > All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should.
> The road wheels are multi-spoke 19” alloys; two have some minor corrosion and kerbing damage to the rim, but none are yet in a condition that justifies refurbishment
> The road tyres are all Premium brand run-flat tyres.  The front tyres are 225/40 x19 size; one is a Goodyear Eagle F1 with between 6mm/7mm tread and the other a Continental ContiSport Contact 5 SSR with 6mm.  The rear tyres are 255/35 x19; one is Goodyear Eagle F1 with between 6mm/7mm tread and the other is a Bridgestone Potenza with 5mm/6mm tread.  There is no spare wheel as the tyres are all run-flat capable
> The locking wheel nut key is present

Summary

Just wow – what a fabulous opportunity.  A sector-leading, premium, stylish family car that drives like a hot hatch, and yet can cruise comfortably and economically when you want it to do so.  An almost never-ending equipment roster and all in outstanding condition and in probably the best colour combination too.  And then you can overlay that with this example’s known ownership history, low mileage, full main agent service history, long MoT, spotless Experian data check, and fully valeted.  It’s hard to think of a reason not to buy it!

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell.  Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.  Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard.  However, we are agents for the industry-leading warranty provider – Warranty Wise (Warranty Provider of the Year 2024 for the fourth year running!).  
If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a comprehensive WarrantyWise top-spec Platinum vehicle warranty for this BMW 3-series, covering 100% of the repair cost on all major components, at labour rates of up to £75ph, at a cost of £379 for 6-months, £499 for 12-months, or £899 for 24-months.  It will cover repair costs up to £5000 for any individual claim, and up to a combined maximum of the purchase cost of the vehicle.   
Lower levels of warranty cover are available at lower cost if preferred.
Please click on “our services” above for more details.

Immaculate condition throughout two-owner car, with full service history, just serviced, cambelt just changed, new MoT, fully valeted, with great specification including automatic transmission, panoramic glass windscreen, colour satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and mirrorlink compatibility, dual zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, massaging front seats, parking sensors all round, electric windows front and rear, electric powerfolding mirrors, and 17” alloy wheels!  This is a great opportunity to acquire a full-size family hatchback in great condition!

In the details below, you’ll find full details of the specification, vehicle history, and a thoroughly detailed condition report.
Twenty-two large-format photos also below!

The Back Story

This Citroen Picasso has been owned for the last seven years by John – my father-in-law.  Sadly, John has recently passed away, and hence his much-loved car is now for sale.

John had bought it from a local dealer when it was just under a year old as a Citroen Select Approved Used Vehicle.  John has since run it on his own private registration plate, but it’s now back on to its substantive registration.  He was drawn to it by the great colour (glossy Ruby Red Metallic) and high specification, coupled to its excellent condition. 

Being in his late 70s when he bought it, John has treated the car carefully – “never raced or rallied!” – and it has rarely carried more than one passenger.  It’s primarily been used for local shopping runs and for visiting their friends and relatives, and I can’t think of an occasion where it has even been heavily loaded.

In his ownership, John added another 28k to the 17000 miles that were on the clock when he bought it – so it now shows just over 45000.  As a former engineer, John was also fastidious about maintenance, so it has an excellent service history, which I have completed for him now prior to sale, with a full service, two new tyres, and an early change of cambelt and water pump.

I’ve given the car a couple of good test runs, and it impressed me on the road.  It drives like new, with smooth changes from the automatic gearbox and no squeaks or rattles.  The panoramic glass windscreen stretches way back into the roof, providing a bright and airy interior.  It’s a big car, although it doesn’t feel it when out on the road – and despite its size, the 1.6 litre BlueHDI diesel engine pulls strongly, providing plenty of power and acceleration.  

Citroen C4 Picasso Ownership in General

The Citroen Picasso maintains Citroen’s long-standing reputation for eye-catching styling, class-leading engineering, and outstanding interior space and comfort.  It’s a big car, but the lithe styling treatment hides that well, and on the move the car shrinks round you to be easy to position on the road.  Of course, Citroen and Peugeot are now part of the same organisation, so many components are shared across the family of French models; this helps to keep down the costs of development when new, and the price of spare parts when required. 

When launched in 2013, this second generation Picasso certainly moved the game on; despite the design being 12 years old now, it still looks futuristic and innovative – both outside and inside.  It utilizes a new platform compared the first generation, and this gives a significantly larger cabin space – around 5 square metres! – and the high roofline, slim screen pillars and panoramic windscreen all further contribute to a particularly airy cabin with loads of light.

This is the five seat model (for the seven-seat version, you need the Grand Picasso) – and every seat slides, and adjusts for back-rest angle, so every passenger can get super-comfy.  Rear passengers get trays in the rear of the front seats, so they can position tablets, books or games etc for long journeys.  Front seat passengers get trays under the seats, and a vast array of storage spaces.  The fabric seats are comfortable and supportive, and passengers don’t get jostled despite the car’s high stance on the road.  The boot is huge too – even before you start folding the rear seats.

This second generation Picasso was introduced in 2013 and ran through to 2018 – so this example is towards the end of the production run.  Prior to 2013, there was, of course, the Xsara Picasso, and after 2018, the range was rebranded as the SpaceTourer. This is the BlueHDI “Feel” model – which combines the highly efficient 1.6-litre 16-valve direct-injection turbocharged diesel engine (introduced in 2015) with the Aisin-sourced 6-speed automatic (a huge improvement over the earlier ET6G Citroen automatic gearbox which was roundly criticized for its jerky changes and slow reactions).  That diesel engine produces 118bhp and develops a substantial 300NM torque, which pulls the car up to 60mph in under 11 secs, and on to a maximum speed (where legal, of course!) of 117mph!  It’s packed full of economical wizardry, including start/stop, which all works together to give some frankly astonishing fuel economy figures in a car of this size:- 74.3mpg on the combined cycle and 80.7mpg on the extra urban cycle…!  It’s Euro Emissions 6 standard (so it is London ULEZ compliant), and with CO2 emissions of just 100g/km means that road tax is free too (currently, at least!) 

Out on the road, the Picasso drives very well – it is comfortable and assured, accelerating with confidence, handling well and cruising smoothly too.  Road noise is all well insulated from the cabin, so your journey is all calm and quiet!  It’s incredibly well equipped too – and this car clearly benefits from the assurance of the low mileage, fresh service, new MoT, new cambelt and valet.  All of those benefits also come before you consider those outstanding economy figures.

Specification of this example

This C4 Picasso is fitted with hugely economical yet powerful 1560cc 4-cylinder 16-valve turbocharged diesel injection engine.  It develops 118bhp and a huge 300NM torque.  It gets up to speed comfortably, and maintains it without a problem out on the open road.  The six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift override works very well, with smooth and responsive changes.

After 2016, Citroen rationalized its range into Touch, Feel and Flair – so Feel is the mid-specification – although you wouldn’t really know it, as it has pretty much everything that you could think of! Dual Zone Climate control air conditioning, Citroen DAB infotainment system with integrated Apple Car Play/Android Auto and Mirror Link, Bluetooth radio and phone, 17” multispoke alloy wheels, parking sensors front and rear, colour satellite navigation, electric front and rear windows, electrically adjustable, heated and powerfolding door mirrors, cruise control with speed limiter, massaging front seats with lumbar control, height adjustable front seats, keyless start, stop/start system, electric parking brake, automatic lights, automatic wipers and remote central locking.  There’s also a whole host of safety features, including air bags all round, traction control, ISOFIX rear seat mounts, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, Brakeforce distribution, tyre pressure warning system, immobilizer, alarm, locking wheel nuts etc.

This car’s condition

I normally pass a comment here that the car’s condition is commensurate with its age and mileage.  That doesn’t really do this Citroen justice.  At eight years old and with 45k miles on the clock, you would be expecting to see some signs of use – but this example really is so clean that you are very hard pressed to do so.  It looks like it is just out of the new-car showroom.  Its overall condition is outstanding throughout, and it certainly catches the eye with that funky styling and Ruby Red Metallic paintwork. There’s literally one or two light stone chips and one bird poo mark to the paintwork to show its age.  The alloy wheels all have some minor corrosion, but there’s no kerbing or scuffing damage.

The recorded mileage of just over 45,000 is absolutely warranted to be correct. The first owner kept the car for about 10 months, and used it well, covering just under 17,000 miles in that time.  John then bought it as a Citroen Select Approved Used Vehicle, and has kept it ever since.  Its been carefully and thoroughly maintained throughout John’s ownership, and never let him down.  It has been serviced each year, so there are eight stamps in the book evidencing John’s annual mileage of about 4000 each year.

As the last service that John had completed was in February 2024, I’ve had a new service completed by my mechanics.  At this service, the mechanics noted that the rear tyres were wearing low, so a new pair of Nexen tyres (to match the front ones) were fitted, and the tyres rotated so that the new ones are on the front.  The cambelt is also recommended for replacement at ten years – so I have also had that replaced together with the water pump, so there should be no major items of expense coming up for some time ahead.

The MoT history shows no problems – other than at the first MoT in February 2020 when an oil leak was noted.  The car had gone in for a service only a couple of months and 300 miles previously, and knowing John as I did I would be pretty sure that he would have taken the garage seriously to task over this!! It comes as no surprise that the fault is then rectified with no charge showing on the invoice!  Ever since then, the car has always passed the MoT first time with no advisory items.  Like the service, the MoT was due in February 2025, so I have had a new one completed early. 

Given this attention to maintenance detail, as you would expect, the Picasso goes, performs, steers, stops etc just as you would want and expect it to do.

The Picasso has also been fully valeted and Experian Data Checked (like HPI) and is clear other than noting its previous private numberplate (again, as you would expect).  The owner’s handbook is present, together with the service book and a stack of servicing receipts. Like all our cars, the Citroen also comes with a 100-pt mechanical and functional inspection report.

The Motoring Press view

Giving it an excellent rating of 4.0 stars out of 5, Parker’s Car Guide praises its space-age looks, driving credentials, practicality and economy, and comments:-

“There’s no doubting that the latest-generation Citroen C4 Picasso stands out from the crowd. The five-seater MPV has morphed into a futuristic looking machine, with a particularly eye-catching headlight treatment. 

Citroen C4 Picasso practicality levels don’t disappoint.  Underneath that striking skin it’s built upon a brand-new platform which enables more space for luggage and passengers than the previous C4 Picasso. The doors open to a wide 65-degree angle to aid access and the three individual rear seats can be tilted forwards or folded completely. There’s no shortage of interior storage pockets and cubby holes. They’re scattered throughout the cabin, with compartments in the floor for rear passengers, reasonably commodious door bins front and rear and a couple of drinks can holders ahead of the gearlever.  Automatic cars also get an extra removable cubby box between the two front seats.

The most striking feature of the C4 Picasso’s interior is the dual digital screen layout. The essential instruments are contained within a huge central 12-inch screen on top of the dashboard. Many of the car’s main functions – air-conditioning, sat-nav (if fitted) and Bluetooth are controlled via a seven-inch touchpad mounted lower down in the middle of the dash. A series of switches, also touch sensitive, surround the pad and act as shortcuts to functions.  As well as making the interior appear high-tech and modern, the thinking behind the touchscreen is that it reduces clutter but the busy layout on the two screens themselves and the large number of buttons on the steering wheel mean that it’s debatable whether this has been achieved. Overall, the interior is styled with similar flair to the exterior and overall fit and finish feels very good. The large wrap-over windscreen lets plenty of light in and forward visibility is excellent too, aided by the split windscreen pillar design.

Citroen C4 Picasso comfort levels are one of the car’s strengths. The seats are comfortable.  Rear passengers are well catered for with three individual seats, all of which can be slid forwards and backwards to aid knee room, rather than a fixed bench. There’s plenty of headroom for tall passengers and you’ll fit three adults alongside each other without too much discomfort.

Reconfigured suspension means less body-roll and the ride quality is very good. Both road and wind noise are impressively well contained, too – the Picasso is a very quiet machine at motorway speeds. Naturally, handling isn’t the primary attribute you would buy a people carrier for but the Picasso makes a fairly decent fist of things in the corners. The steering is nicely weighted, the car turns in keenly enough and feels assured at normal road speeds.  Relatively small overall dimensions and an impressive turning circle make it easy to park and to thread through urban traffic.

Improved aerodynamics and an enormous weight saving of 140kg compared with its predecessor have improved the Picasso’s emissions and economy across the range. Independent body Euro NCAP has awarded the Picasso a five-star overall rating for safety. It scored 86% for adult occupant protection and 88% for child occupant protection in crash testing.

It’s a worthy addition to the compact people carrier class. It drives very well on the road and it has all the practicality you’d expect of a people carrier”.

Equipment and Features
> Finished in Ruby Red Metallic paintwork, with grey and slate blue patterned cloth interior trim> 1,560cc 4-cylinder turbocharged fuel-injection diesel engine, producing 118bhp and 300Nm torque
> 6-speed EAT6 Automatic gearbox, with paddle-shift override and manual option
> Power Assisted Steering (PAS)
> Dual Zone Climate control air conditioning
> Citroen touchscreen infotainment multi-media system, with colour display screen, integrated Apple Car Play, Android Auto and Mirror Link, RDS-DAB Radio with USB and auxiliary input socket, integrated Bluetooth music, roof-mounted bee-sting aerial, steering-wheel mounted radio controls, and integrated anti-theft protection
> Integrated Bluetooth radio and phone system
> Multi-spoke 17” alloy wheels
> Colour-screen satellite navigation
> Electric front and rear windows with one-touch operation on all windows
> Electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors with automatic powerfolding
> Front and rear parking sensors with interior graphical display
> Cruise Control with speed limiter
> Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
> Active intelligent emergency brake assist
> Traction Control / Electronic Stability Control
> Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
> Electric parking brake
> Remote control central locking, with two full remote controls
> Tinted windows
> Panoramic windscreen
> Three rear seats, each fitted with 3-point seat belts, head restraints and ISOFIX seat mountings
> Individually folding rear seats
> Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
> Front seats with adjustable massaging function
> Lumbar adjustment to front seats
> Height adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seats
> Driver’s, Front Passenger’s, side and seat airbags
> Front and rear fog lamps
> Daytime running lights
> Automatic lights and automatic wipers
> Keyless Start
> Start/Stop system
> Trip computer with mileage since reset, average mpg, distance to empty, average speed, and current mpg
> Picnic trays and map nets to rear of front seats
> Pull-out trays underneath front seats and storage bins in the rear floor
> Heated rear window
> Rear wash/wipe system
> Removeable front cubby box
> 12v charging point
> Tailored front and rear floormats
> Twin cupholders
> Integrated anti-theft alarm

History and Documentation
> The current mileage is showing as 45,300 miles which is warranted as correct.
> The Picasso comes with its V5 registration document.  It was first registered 15^th February 2017, and transferred to its second keeper (John) on the 31^st January 2018.  It has had just the two owners.
> The current MoT expires 20^th December 2025.  It was issued 21^st December 2024 at 45,247 miles with no advisory items.   
> An MoT history printout shows the following MoTs:-
  27,695 miles;  18/02/2020
  29,461 miles;  03/02/2021
  32,335 miles;  14/02/2022
  36,713 miles;  25/01/2023
  41,814 miles;  12/02/2024
  45,247 miles;  21/12/2024
> Every MoT certificate is present with the car
> The car has been Experian Data Checked (similar to HPI), and the buyer will receive a copy of the report – which shows no problems, and notes that is has been held on a private registration plate during John’s ownership
> The car has been serviced eight times. The service book has all services recorded, as follows, and most of them are also documented by the servicing receipts:-
  16,670 miles;  01/12/2017  – Citroen Main Agent
  21,549 miles;  03/12/2018 – Ford Main Agent (who John bought the car from)
  27,353 miles;  20/12/2019 – Ford Main Agent
  29,370 miles;  14/12/2020 – Ford Main Agent
  32,170 miles;  29/12/2021 – Citroen Main Agent
  36,713 miles;  25/01/2023 – Citroen Main Agent
  41,814 miles;  12/02/2024 – Independent Garage
  45,238 miles;  18/12/2024 – Independent Garage (my mechanics) incl. Cambelt replacement
> The owners handbook and book pack are all present.

Bodywork and Interior Condition
> As you can see from the photos, the bodywork is in outstanding condition.  There are no nasty scuffs, dents or rusty patches.  There are a few touched-in stone chips and a single bird-poo mark, but that’s all – and the whole car presents very smartly and frankly looks almost new.
> The interior is equally immaculate throughout, with no damage to the seats or carpets, assisted by the black carpet floormats

Mechanical Condition and Wheels/Tyres
> The car has covered just over 45,000 miles.  It goes very well indeed – and runs, steers, stops and goes round corners just as you would expect
 > All the interior warning lights come on and go off as they should
> The road wheels are multi-spoke 17” alloys; one has a kerbing scuff to the rim, which has been touched in, and two have some minor surface corrosion under the lacquer – but none are yet at the stage of needing to be refurbished
> The road tyres are a matched set of good quality Nexen NFera SU1 tyres, in 205/55 x17 size.  The front tyres are new (and so have 7mm of tread), and the rear tyres are evenly worn with about 4mm of tread remaining.  The spare wheel is a space saver type, fitted with an unused Continental 125/85×16 tyre
> The locking wheel nut key, tools and towing eye are all present

Summary

All in all – this is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a spacious, modern family hatchback in immaculate condition.  The Citroen Picasso is a justifiably frequent sight on our roads – and for good reason.  It is well known for its space, versatility and comfort, and this later example with the snazzy styling inside and out just hits all the right buttons.   Couple that with this example’s smart Ruby Red paintwork, impeccable service history, new MoT, new cambelt, thorough valet, excellent equipment levels, free road tax and quite incredible fuel economy, and it’s hard to think of a reason not to buy it!

If you have any questions, please mail me or call me on 07917-234897.  Any inspection or accompanied test drive is welcomed by appointment.

A note about Warranties

We go to exceptional lengths to assure the mechanical condition of any car that we sell.  Cars are generally much more reliable than was the case in the past – but they are ever increasing in complexity and should the unthinkable happen, repair costs can be high.  Many buyers prefer us to keep the price of our cars low, so we do not include a mechanical breakdown warranty as standard.  However, we are agents for the industry-leading warranty provider – Warranty Wise (Warranty Provider of the Year 2024 for the fourth year running!).  If you wish to do so, you can optionally purchase a top-notch very comprehensive WarrantyWise Platinum vehicle warranty for this Citroen C4 Picasso, covering 100% of the repair cost on all major components, at labour rates of up to £75ph, at a cost of £399 for 6-months, £579 for 12-months, or £999 for 24-months.  It will cover repair costs up to £5000 for any individual claim, and up to a combined maximum of the purchase cost of the vehicle.   
Lower levels of warranty cover are available at lower cost if preferred.
Please click on “our services” above for more details.