New year... new car? What better way to kick off 2024 than to trade in your current car for something more up to date, more stylish and which could cost you less to run?

And now is the perfect time to do it. That's because used car prices have fallen by 13.6 per cent since April.* This could mean that cars which were out of budget last year could be within reach this year. 

And if you're looking to upgrade to an SUV, the good news is that there's never been more to choose from. 

SUVs are a popular option, not least for families.

Here's our guide to the best affordable second-hand models you can buy 

You're sure to find some very cost-effective options, whether you want something compact and easy to park or a family-friendly seven-seater.

Here the car experts at Cazoo run through the top 12 for 2024. 

1. Nissan Qashqai 

A great all-rounder: The Nissan Qashqai is excellent value and full of useful tech

A classic for a reason! The Qashqai is a popular family SUV that's hard to beat for value. We particularly like the second-generation model, which was sold between 2014 and 2021 but still looks sharp and offers plenty of space and comfort.

With so many bought there are lots of used ones to choose from. Consider a car from 2017 onwards if you're looking for a slightly upgraded interior and extra tech, but earlier ones will cost less. 

2. Kia Sportage 

A family SUV that looks sharp, the Kia Sportage offers excellent value for money

Sold new between 2016 and 2021, the previous-generation Kia Sportage is one of the best all-round mid-size SUVs you can get. Its sharp styling stands out from the crowd and it's comfortable and well-equipped.

That's lots of boxes ticked already, and we've not even mentioned Kia's seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty which means most used Sportage models are still covered. Talk about a cherry on the cake! 

3. BMW X3

Sporty and sophisticated: BMW X3 brings together sporty driving with an an upmarket feel

BMWs are synonymous with luxury, and usually have hefty price tags to match. But for a great-value SUV offering the full premium brand experience, opt for one of the BMW X3 models sold new between 2010 and 2017.

This stylish SUV is well suited for family duties - with oodles of space and a large boot. All models feature a high-quality interior and powerful engine, but those from 2014 onwards have more up-to-date tech. 

4. Renault Captur 

Spacious with low running costs, the Renault Captur is known for its distinctive style

Like the latest version, the first-generation Captur is a great small SUV - just much more affordable. Sold new between 2013 and 2019, this is a stylish option that's enjoyable to drive and big enough to fit four people.

The Captur has low running costs to match its affordable price, loads of features included as standard and a choice of efficient petrol and diesel engines. 

5. Audi Q3

Comfortable and a pleasure to drive, the Audi Q3 is a compact SUV with a high-quality interior

The Audi Q3 is irrefutable proof that you can get a proper premium SUV for a very reasonable price. 

The previous-generation version, sold new between 2011 and 2018, provides a good amount of space and all the great features the brand is justly famous for, from contemporary, high-quality interiors to a smooth, fuel-efficient engine.

6. Citroen C5 Aircross

With lots of back-seat space, the Citroen C5 Aircross is a comfortable family SUV

It's no secret Britain's roads don't always guarantee the smoothest rides. The Citroen C5 Aircross meets this challenge head on with squishy seats and soft suspension - delivering a wonderfully comfortable driving experience. 

And you won't need to break the bank. This car is impressively affordable, while a roomy interior and big boot makes it handy for families.

7. Land Rover Discovery Sport

A compact premium SUV, the Land Rover Discovery Sport boasts a roomy seven-seat interior

The Discovery Sport is strikingly affordable for a luxurious family SUV, and its go-anywhere ability gives every journey a sense of adventure.

It's a popular car, so you'll have a good number of second-hand cars to choose from, with a variety of trim levels and the option of five-seat or seven-seat models. You can pick between petrol and diesel engines, or a plug-in hybrid for a slightly higher price. 

8. Seat Ateca

Style meets substance with the Seat Ateca, one of the most cost-effective SUVs to own

Here's a car that is fuel efficient, affordable, and super practical - with enough room for four adults, a big boot and lots of storage spaces for bits and bobs. 

All sounds good but, well, a bit boring? Not so! Like the Seat brand overall, the Ateca has a sporty edge that makes it fun behind the wheel. The result is a practical, affordable family car that's also enjoyable to drive.

9. Ford EcoSport

Rugged styling and compact dimensions come together in the Ford EcoSport

The EcoSport offers excellent value for money as a used car and also has low running costs. It's available with a manual or automatic gearbox, while some models even come with four-wheel drive. 

Families may find this SUV a touch on the small side, but for two adults sitting in the front space won't be an issue and it's ideal for zipping around the city. 

10. Nissan X-Trail 

With both five and seven-seat variations, the Nissan X-Trail is a very practical mid-size SUV

Know those cars you see churning across deserts in TV ads? Tough and rugged, the X-Trail is a classic of the genre, with the added advantage of being wonderfully practical for families thanks to a large boot and, in most versions, seven seats.

The version sold new between 2013 and 2021 feels very comfortable on the road, while models with four-wheel drive deliver some serious off-road capability. Diesel versions offer the best fuel economy, but petrol makes more sense if you drive less. 

11. Dacia Duster

One of the least-expensive SUVs around, the Dacia Duster is both roomy and affordable to run

Dacia specialises in offering amazing value for money - and its Duster model is a shoe-in for a list of the best affordable SUVs. 

Yes, they may not be the height of luxury, but Dusters are comfy, roomy and cost less than just about any other SUV of a similar size.

Higher spec models offer more features but remain very cost-effective.  

12. Ford Kuga

Putting the fun in function, the Ford Kuga is spacious while still being a joy to drive

The second Ford to feature on our list, the Kuga is another classic mid-size SUV that's terrifically good value. The version sold new between 2012 and 2020 is a bargain now, offering smart looks and lots of equipment.

It feels sporty to drive and has a good deal of space for a family of four plus a sizeable boot. All models have air con and cruise control, and there are lots of different engines and trim levels to choose from.

*Used car values fall further following 4.2% drop in October - https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/used-car-values-fall-a-further-15-following-42-drop-in-october