If you’re in the market for a new vehicle these days, you may find the prices staggering. And that means the market for pre-owned is growing.
Requirement: You want to experience the power and versatility of a luxury SUV but you’re hesitant to splash out upwards of R1,5-million. So, with R500 000 burning a hole in your pocket (lucky you), these are five second-hand luxury SUVs you could look at purchasing.
These cars have each lost half or more of their value since they were new, but bear in mind that you could end up shelling out big time when it comes to maintenance costs…
In terms of V8 diesel power, this Q7 hits the nail on the head. This hefty SUV is able to propel itself from 0-100 km/h in 6,4 seconds while comfortably seating seven people. If you look hard enough, you can find the 6,0-litre V12 variants, but those will come at more of a cost.
2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 CDI BlueEfficiency 7G-Tronic
In terms of interior space, you can’t really go wrong with the GL. There are many engines options from which to choose, but the 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel might be the safest bet. It also has seven seats, so you’ll be able to cart around quite a few people on your wine-tasting excursions.
Some of these come standard with BMW Motorsport colours on the kidney grill, so you know this is the real deal. It’s hard not to call the X5 M50d a performance vehicle because its figures are highly respectable for an SUV. Some 280 kW and 740 N.m being sent to all four wheels means that this thing will do 0-100 km/h in just 5,4 seconds.
2010 Porsche Cayenne 3,0 Diesel Tipronic
It could be argued that this is the one that started it all. The Cayenne was heavily criticised upon release but the sales statistics can’t be ignored. The 3,0-litre diesel models aren’t exactly as sought after as the GTS models, but that means you can pick these up somewhat cheaper. Despite bearing a Porsche badge, it isn’t really a true performer. But the 176 kW and 550 N.m on offer will certainly get you around swiftly.
Although this may seem like is a steal, the maintenance costs (and fuel bills!) will make many buyers wary. Put this aside, though, and you can find second-hand examples specced to the brim, all offering a pleasing mix of speed and comfort.
