A budget of around €25,000 gives you very wide possibilities in Germany. For this amount you can consider a brand new mainstream car or a used premium model that cost significantly more just a few years ago. Many buyers ask: which car under €25,000 will be reliable, comfortable and reasonably priced to run? Below we’ll look at 5 strong options in this budget on the German used market. We’ve included different types — saloons, estates, SUVs — and focused on models with a good reputation for reliability. The key is always the same: any used car needs a proper inspection and history check if you want a good deal without nasty surprises.
Important: every used car has to be checked thoroughly. We use professional diagnostic tools (LAUNCH), compare mileage in control units, measure paint thickness, check the VIN (CarVertical report is included in our standard service) and prepare a written “buy / don’t buy” conclusion.
1. Audi A4 — balanced premium saloon
Audi A4 B9 (from 2015) is one of the best options under €25,000. For this money you can realistically find a car with around 80–120,000 km and a solid specification. The A4 is known for build quality and longevity. Versions with the 2.0 TFSI and S tronic dual-clutch gearbox offer strong performance (0–100 km/h in about 6 seconds in higher-output versions) with reasonable fuel consumption as long as servicing is done properly.
The A4 quite deservedly makes it into any “best buys around 25k” list. It’s a D-segment premium saloon that combines a smart image, modern tech and moderate running costs. In this budget you’ll mostly see the A4 B9 from 2016–2019 with mileage roughly 80–120,000 km. Owners praise the quality of the interior, the ergonomics and the stability on motorways. With 2.0 TFSI and S tronic, serious engine or gearbox issues are rare if the car has been serviced on time.
Most offers in this price range are saloons, but if you need more practicality, the A4 Avant estate is also worth a look. Main rivals are the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. They are strong choices too, but for similar money and year the A4 often offers slightly better equipment or lower mileage. Overall it’s an elegant, efficient car that works equally well for everyday commuting and long trips.
- 🔥 Pros: business-class comfort, high-quality interior, MMI infotainment, modern driver aids.
- 👓 What to check: suspension wear (bushes at higher mileage), correct operation of sensors / cameras and all assistance systems.
- 🚗 Alternative: A4 Avant estate for family use; cross-shopping: BMW 3-Series, Mercedes C-Class.
2. BMW 5-Series — business class and strong reliability
BMW 5-Series G30 (2017–2020) is a great choice if you want something larger and more upmarket. In this budget you’ll mostly find 520d and 530i from 2017–2018 with roughly 100–140,000 km. The 5-Series scores highly for reliability, high-speed stability and suspension comfort.
The G30 generation is a mid-size business saloon that manages to combine a representative image with a very driver-focused character. It also has an excellent reputation for build quality compared to some earlier generations. For sensible running costs, the sweet spots are the 520d (2.0 diesel, 190 hp) and 530i (2.0 petrol, 252 hp). These engines are strong enough and proven in practice. Higher-power six-cylinder engines such as 530d or 540i are brilliant to drive but more complex and expensive to maintain.
- 🔥 Pros: strong brand image, spacious premium interior, lots of modern tech (including semi-autonomous driver aids and gesture control on some cars), excellent motorway stability and comfort.
- 👓 What to check: expensive options such as adaptive / air suspension, condition of all comfort systems, insurance and tax costs for powerful versions.
- 🛠️ Bear in mind: servicing a 5-Series is not cheap, and parts for complex options can be pricey. If you pick a moderate engine and keep up with maintenance, the G30 can serve as a very dependable long-term car.
3. Mercedes-Benz GLC — comfortable premium SUV
GLC X253 (2015–2019) is a compact premium SUV based on the C-Class with excellent ride comfort and sound insulation. For around €25,000 you’ll find GLC 250 (2.0 petrol) or GLC 220d / 250d (2.2 diesel) with roughly 100,000 km, often with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
In the SUV segment, the first-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC is one of the strongest options under €25,000. It combines the feel of a “real” Mercedes with the practicality of an SUV: raised seating position, good space for four people, big boot. Build quality, materials and noise insulation are on a high level, and comfort on long journeys is excellent. Reliability ratings in Germany are also very good; some owners report 150–200,000 km with no major issues, only routine maintenance.
Recommended engines include GLC 250 (2.0 petrol, 211–245 hp) and GLC 220d / 250d (2.2 diesel, 170–204 hp). They offer enough power and are reasonably economical for a premium SUV. 4MATIC all-wheel drive is common and helpful in all weather conditions. Inside you’ll find typical Mercedes comfort: quality materials, dual-zone climate control, electric seats and a wide range of safety systems.
- 🔥 Pros: high comfort, premium feel, good space for a family, 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
- 👓 What to check: battery and electrical systems (comfort electronics, start/stop), occasional interior rattles on cold days, condition of dampers at higher mileage.
4. Volkswagen Passat B8 — one of the best family choices
Passat B8 (2015–2022) is a benchmark for practicality: very spacious interior, huge boot (especially in the Variant estate), economical engines and fair servicing costs. For €25,000 you can often find 2017–2019 cars with relatively low mileage (50–80,000 km) and rich equipment (digital cockpit, adaptive cruise, LED headlights, etc.).
Not everyone wants a premium badge — sometimes practicality and running costs are more important. The eighth generation Passat is a classic all-round car for both family and work. Its popularity on the used market is no accident: it’s roomy, comfortable and durable, while service and parts costs remain reasonable. Many examples cover high mileages without major issues when serviced correctly.
There is a wide range of engines: petrol 1.4 TSI, 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TSI; diesel 2.0 TDI in several power versions; even a plug-in hybrid (Passat GTE). Gearboxes include 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG. Owners appreciate the long-distance comfort (a diesel B8 can easily manage 4–5 l/100 km on the motorway) and the simple, logical interior. For €25k you will often get a very well-equipped ex-fleet car with digital instruments, adaptive cruise, LEDs, good seats and all the useful everyday options.
- 🔥 Pros: very good long-distance comfort, low diesel consumption on the motorway, easy to live with in town.
- 👓 What to check: detailed service history; DSG behaviour (no jerks / delays), timing belt or chain status depending on engine.
- 🚗 Variants: petrol 1.4 / 1.5 / 2.0 TSI, diesel 2.0 TDI, plug-in hybrid GTE.
5. Volkswagen Tiguan — reliable everyday crossover
Tiguan II (from 2016) is one of the most popular crossovers in Germany. For around €25,000 you can find 2018–2019 cars with 60–70,000 km, often still with remaining manufacturer or extended warranty. It’s a very good choice for families and city use: comfortable seating position, good visibility, practical boot.
The second-generation Tiguan combines modern design, strong equipment and everyday practicality. Typical engines are 1.4 TSI (150 hp) and 2.0 TSI (180–220 hp) with a 7-speed DSG. Compared to earlier VW generations, many weak points have been improved. Experts and owners describe the Tiguan II as a reliable, versatile car that feels at home both in the city and on long trips.
- 🔥 Pros: quality close to an Audi Q5 but at a lower price, very good for families (rear seat space, folding tables, big boot), comfortable suspension and decent ground clearance. Good compromise between size and manoeuvrability.
- 👓 What to check: brake wear (the car is not light), correct DSG operation, full check of climate control, cameras and all electrics.
Quick comparison of the models
| Model | Type | Years / budget | Strengths | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A4 B9 | Saloon / estate | 2016–2019 · ≤ €25,000 | Comfort, dynamics, image | Suspension, sensors / cameras |
| BMW 5-Series G30 | Business saloon | 2017–2018 · ≤ €25,000 | High-speed stability, tech | Expensive options, running costs |
| Mercedes GLC X253 | SUV | 2016–2017 · ≤ €25,000 | Comfort, 4MATIC | Battery / electrics, interior noises |
| VW Passat B8 | Saloon / Variant | 2017–2019 · ≤ €25,000 | Practicality, efficiency | DSG behaviour, timing service |
| VW Tiguan II | SUV | 2018–2019 · ≤ €25,000 | Family comfort, 4Motion | Brakes, DSG / electronics |
Buying a car under €25,000: where to start and how not to make a mistake
First, define your priorities: premium feel (A4, 5-Series), family practicality (Passat) or all-round SUV usability (GLC, Tiguan). Whatever you choose, back it up with a full pre-purchase inspection: paint thickness measurement, OBD diagnostics, mileage check in control units, VIN / history report, proper test drive and estimation of upcoming repair costs.
Each of the models above has its own character, and the best choice depends on what you value more — premium badge, driving dynamics or everyday practicality. But one thing is always true: to buy a good used car, simply finding a promising advert is not enough. You need to be sure about the real technical condition. A mistake can become very expensive.
This is where we come in. Our company specialises in car sourcing in Germany and professional pre-purchase inspections. We help you find the right car around €25,000 and check it thoroughly. Our expert travels to the car (often the same day or at another convenient time), carries out a complete inspection with diagnostic equipment, measures paint thickness, reads fault codes, checks the car on a lift (where possible) and identifies all visible and hidden issues.
At the end you receive a detailed written report including a full history check (CarVertical VIN report is included in our standard service) and an honest recommendation: whether it makes sense to buy this car or not. We speak English, German, Russian, Polish and Ukrainian — communication with the seller and support during the deal are also part of our service. In the end you save time and get a reliable car without hidden defects. Get in touch with Sicher-Check — we make buying a car in Germany safer and less stressful.
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