The used car market in Bangladesh is growing every year, as many in the middle class buy their first car.
The pandemic too, has shrunk the pockets of many, making the second-hand market a much sought after option for most.
According to research conducted by LightCastle, it anticipates the volume of the passenger vehicle segment to almost double in size to exceed 46,000 units annually by 2025, given that the high economic growth persists and the impact of Covid-19 doesn’t prolong further.
Today we are going to talk about the top six models you should go for based on their reliability and value for money and here are some of the cars that offer the best value for money under the Tk20 lakh range.
Toyota Premio/Allion: These workhorses are known for their reliability and the value for money. Even when you sell this a few years down the line, chances are you’ll be able to resell these vehicles for a very similar price, as these hold value.
The only drawback to purchasing these vehicles is that a low mileage of below 50,000 is pretty difficult to find. A 2004-2006 model will set you back around Tk12 lakh but the newer shape will cost around Tk18 to 19 lakh.
Suzuki Swift: This is definitely the most fun to drive car among this lot, which is sure going to take you from point A to B faster than anyone else in Dhaka’s traffic.
Not only is it fun to drive, but the compact size of this car is also easy to park as it fits just about anywhere. Talking about the 2011-2014 model, this car gives the best mileage here as well, about 17 km per litre in the city. A used Swift currently sells for around Tk5-7 lakh.
Toyota Fielder: Sharing the same engine as a Corolla, the fielder provides a much bigger boot space to carry all the extra luggage when you plan a trip out of the city. The Fielder is easy to live with and has Toyota’s reliability. With space for five people, this is perfect for families with newborns. The 1.5L engine is more than capable to assist you with your daily errands. A used 2008-2012 Fielder costs around Tk10 to Tk12 lakh.
2006-2010 Nissan Bluebird: If you’re looking for a bit of leg space at the back and a comfortable ride, this car competes with the Honda Accord. With relatively more road presence than your usual Premio or Allion, a used 2006-2010 model Bluebird sells for around 10 lakh. It’s quite reliable too if you’re using original spare parts.
2004 Toyota Harrier: As surprising as it might seem to have a Harrier in the list of cars below 20 lakh, a used SUV can be a little expensive to maintain in comparison to the others in the list.
However, for larger families who tend to go out of the city often, this is the car to go for. The classy badge definitely adds more value and has all the modern features any luxury car has to offer. A 2004 model of the Toyota Harrier will set you back around Tk19-Tk20 lakh depending on the condition of the vehicle.
2008-2012 Mitsubishi Lancer EX: Last but not the least, we had to add the Mitsubishi Lancer EX to the list for the ones looking for a sporty ride. Based on the same chassis as the legendary Evolution, the EX offers both the looks as well as a fun ride. However, there have been issues with its reliability, but when you go for it, make sure you check all the electronic components and gadgets. A Lancer EX will set you back around Tk15 to Tk16 lakh.
All the prices mentioned were based on the current price of these vehicles in the used car market. Even though there are many others that you can go for like the Toyota Mark 2 for example, those cars have bigger engines, which can often mean more expensive to maintain and often have more yearly tax.
