25/05/2020
Devon, a jewel in the South West of England, is a county renowned for its stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and charming villages. Whether you're a local resident seeking a reliable set of wheels or a visitor eager to explore its beauty, navigating the world of vehicles in Devon can seem a daunting task. From trusted local services to a bustling used car market and convenient car hire options, this comprehensive guide will steer you through everything you need to know about getting about in this magnificent county.
Devon Car Services: Your Trusted Local Partner
When it comes to vehicle care and sales, having a reliable local contact is invaluable. Located conveniently on the Marsh Barton Trading Estate, Devon Car Services stands out as a true pillar of the local community. This small, family-run business has been successfully supplying a wide range of vehicles to suit all budgets for nearly 20 years. Their longevity in the market speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction and the quality of their offerings.
Choosing a family-run establishment like Devon Car Services offers distinct advantages. Unlike larger, more impersonal dealerships, you often benefit from a more personalised approach, a deeper understanding of local needs, and a genuine desire to build lasting relationships with customers. Their extensive experience over two decades means they possess invaluable knowledge of the local market and the specific requirements of drivers in Devon. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, their team is likely to provide tailored advice and support, ensuring you drive away with a vehicle that perfectly matches your lifestyle and financial considerations.
Why Support Local Businesses?
Supporting local businesses like Devon Car Services not only benefits the immediate community but also often translates into a more attentive and dedicated service for you. Family-run operations thrive on reputation and word-of-mouth, meaning they are inherently motivated to provide excellent service and high-quality vehicles. Their deep roots in Devon mean they understand the local driving conditions, road types, and common vehicle preferences, making them an ideal resource for anyone seeking a car in the area.
Devon's used car market is vibrant and extensive, offering a vast array of options for every budget and preference. As the fourth largest English county by area, with major towns like Plymouth, Exeter, and Torbay, it's no surprise that thousands of vehicles are advertised daily. Currently, there are nearly 2,000 used cars being advertised across Devon, indicating a healthy and competitive market for buyers.
The most popular car search in Devon is for the Vauxhall Corsa, a testament to its reputation as a reliable, economical, and versatile vehicle. This popularity often means a good selection is available, but it also suggests strong demand, which can influence pricing. Buyers can find vehicles across a broad spectrum of prices, catering to various financial plans.
Understanding Used Car Pricing in Devon
The cost of a used car in Devon can vary significantly based on factors such as make, model, age, mileage, condition, and features. However, the market offers options for nearly all budgets, starting from very affordable vehicles to more premium selections. Here's a general breakdown of what you might expect:
- Cars under £2,000: While limited, a few options are typically available for those on a very tight budget. These often represent older models or those with higher mileage.
- Cars under £3,000: A slightly broader selection emerges, offering more choices in compact and city cars.
- Cars under £4,000: The number of available cars increases substantially, providing more diversity in models and conditions.
- Cars under £5,000: This price bracket offers a decent variety of popular models, often with a good balance of age and mileage.
- Cars under £6,000: At this level, buyers can expect a healthy selection of well-maintained vehicles, potentially with more modern features.
Prices can start from as little as £1,795, making used car ownership accessible to many. For example, some common models you might find in the £5,000-£7,500 range include reliable hatchbacks and compact SUVs, often with practical features for everyday driving.
Example Used Cars and Their Features (Approximate Pricing)
| Model | Year (Plate) | Mileage | Type | Fuel | Transmission | Doors | Key Features (Examples) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat Panda 1.2 Pop | 2017 (17) | 49,898 | Hatchback | Petrol | Manual | 5 | Immobiliser, Cloth Upholstery, ISOFIX |
| Kia Rio 1.25 2 | 2017 (67) | 82,567 | Hatchback | Petrol | Manual | 5 | Air Con, Bluetooth, Cruise Control |
| MINI Hatchback 1.5 Cooper D | 2015 (15) | 64,159 | Hatchback | Diesel | Manual | 3 | Traction Control, On Board Computer |
| Volkswagen Up 1.0 Move Up | 2018 (68) | 75,011 | Hatchback | Petrol | Manual | 5 | DAB Radio, Bluetooth, Daytime Running Lights |
| Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 ecoFLEX Energy | 2017 (17) | 49,000 | Hatchback | Petrol | Manual | 5 | Heated Windscreen, Speed Limiter |
| Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Dualjet SZ T | 2017 (67) | 59,896 | SUV | Petrol | Manual | 5 | Air Con, Bluetooth Audio Streaming |
Finding Reputable Dealers in Devon
Devon is home to a significant number of used car dealers, with over 227 businesses spread across the county. This extensive network provides buyers with ample choice and competition, which can often lead to better deals. Some of the larger dealers, like Select Cars South West, offer a substantial selection of vehicles, currently stocking dozens of cars to choose from. Key areas with a concentration of dealers include Plymouth, Torbay, Newton Abbot, Barnstaple, and Exeter.
Exploring Devon with Car Hire
For visitors or those needing a temporary vehicle, car hire offers unparalleled freedom to explore Devon's diverse attractions at your own pace. The county's blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and family-friendly parks makes a car an almost essential tool for an unforgettable journey.
Where to Hire a Car in Devon: Budget Car Hire, Exeter
One prominent option for car hire is Budget Car Hire, conveniently located at St. Davids Station on Bonhay Street in Exeter. This central location in the county's capital makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city and venturing further afield into the wider Devon countryside.
Making the Most of Your Devon Car Hire
Exeter itself is steeped in history, boasting ancient Roman roots and significant landmarks. With a hire car, you can effortlessly visit sites like Exeter Cathedral, Rougemont Castle, and the fascinating underground passages. However, the true benefit of car hire comes when you venture beyond the city limits.
Devon's natural landscapes are breathtaking and best experienced by car. The county is characterised by its hilly terrain and numerous rivers, with opportunities to spot various wildlife and birds in rural areas, and even wild ponies in the forest regions. Scenic villages and small towns, offering a glimpse into local rural life and featuring historic buildings, are also easily accessible.
Top Attractions Easily Accessible by Car from Exeter
| Attraction | Type | Location (Relative to Exeter) | Why Visit with a Car? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dawlish Warren | Beach & Nature Reserve | South of Exeter | Popular beach, easy access, arrive early for parking. |
| Dartmoor National Park | National Park | South-West of Exeter | Vast moorland, wildlife spotting, scenic drives, hiking. |
| Exmoor National Park | National Park | North-East of Exeter | Hilly terrain, wild ponies, diverse landscapes. |
| Crealy Great Adventure Park | Family Theme Park | Just outside Exeter | Outdoor & indoor attractions, easy transport for families. |
| Exeter Cathedral | Historic Landmark | Exeter City Centre | Architectural marvel, central but car useful for city access. |
| Rougemont Castle | Historic Landmark | Exeter City Centre | Ancient fortress, often combined with city exploration. |
| Underground Passages | Historic Site | Exeter City Centre | Unique historical experience, car for convenience. |
For families, hiring a car offers immense convenience. Transporting children to and from attractions like Crealy Great Adventure Park becomes significantly easier and less stressful than relying on public transport. Similarly, if you enjoy cycling, a hire car allows you to easily transport your bike to scenic routes along the canal system or the River Exe. Remember to always stay alert for cyclists and pedestrians, especially in popular walking tour areas.
Ultimately, a car rental provides the flexibility to create your own itinerary, linger longer at favourite spots, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. It transforms your trip into a more leisurely and hassle-free experience, ensuring you can truly immerse yourself in all that Devon has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cars in Devon
Who are Devon Car Services?
Devon Car Services is a small, family-run business located on Marsh Barton Trading Estate in Devon. They have been successfully supplying a wide range of vehicles to suit all budgets for nearly 20 years, serving the local community and beyond with trusted service.
How much does a used car cost in Devon?
Used car prices in Devon vary widely, but there are options for all budgets. You can find cars starting from as little as £1,795. There are currently nearly 2,000 cars advertised, with a significant number available under £6,000, and a smaller selection under £2,000, £3,000, £4,000, and £5,000. Popular models like the Vauxhall Corsa are commonly found.
Where can I buy a used car in North Devon?
While the provided information doesn't specify particular dealerships solely in North Devon, the county has over 227 used car dealers spread across its main towns, including Barnstaple in North Devon. You can search for local dealers in areas like Barnstaple to find options. Devon Car Services, located in Exeter, also serves the wider Devon area.
Where can I hire a car in Devon?
You can hire a car in Devon from Budget Car Hire, which has a convenient location at St. Davids Station on Bonhay Street in Exeter. This provides an excellent base for exploring the city and the surrounding Devon countryside and attractions.
What are the benefits of hiring a car in Devon?
Hiring a car in Devon offers significant benefits, including the freedom to explore at your own pace, easy access to historical sites, national parks, and family attractions that might be outside city centres. It provides comfort, convenience for families with children, and the ability to transport items like bicycles, making your trip more leisurely and flexible.
What is the most popular used car search in Devon?
The Vauxhall Corsa is currently the most popular car search in Devon, indicating its high demand and widespread appeal among buyers in the county.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking to purchase a reliable used car from a trusted local business like Devon Car Services, understand the dynamic pricing of the county's extensive used car market, or gain the freedom to explore Devon's stunning landscapes with a convenient car hire, this guide provides the essential insights. Devon offers a wealth of motoring opportunities, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can find the perfect vehicle solution to suit their needs and enjoy all that this beautiful South West county has to offer.
If you want to read more articles similar to Your Guide to Cars in Devon: Buy, Hire & Service, you can visit the Automotive category.