A popular used car expert has shared how used car buyers can get behind the wheel of a luxury model that shares the same platform as a Bentley for as little as £3,000.
Jonny Brighton runs the YouTube channel CarsWithJB and regularly posts videos in which he recommends a variety of used models that offer impressive refinement and performance on a limited budget.
In one of his latest videos, Jonny recommends that motorists looking for a prestige model at a low price should consider the Volkswagen Phaeton, which shares the same platform as the Bentley Continental.
He explained: “The Volkswagen Phaeton was literally built by the brand on the same platform as Bentley Continental in a show of strength to their German competitors, who had been stepping on their turf, building cheaper hatchback-style cars that VW had typically been known for.
“The Phaeton was basically VW telling those brands that they could blow them out of the water when it came to luxury cars, so they should be careful of which markets they tried to operate in. That’s why VW put so much into this car, with so many bespoke parts.”
In the video, Jonny particularly focused on the third-generation version of the Volkswagen Phaeton, which was produced between 2008 and 2011.
The majority of models sold in the UK featured a 3.0-litre TDI diesel engine which, whilst not ULEZ compliant, is certainly powerful, accelerating from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds, whilst averaging around 31mpg.
Volkswagen Phaetons are currently available on the used market from around £3,000, with a £5,000 budget enough to get a low-mileage example.
Jonny particularly praised the Phaeton for its lavish interior, with many examples featuring electronically-adjusted leather seats and a 10-speaker audio system.
He added: “The interiors are well-crafted with nice, premium materials, and you could mistake yourself for being in a Flying Spur if it wasn’t for the badging.”
“The third series is the one you’ll be getting with our price range, which looks a touch more modern on the exterior than the first, though I do like the original for its history.”
Nevertheless, the YouTuber suggested that drivers who are interested in buying a used Phaeton should make sure that all electronic components are in working order to prevent a serious repair bill.
He advised: “Just watch out for the electrics on these, as though the engines have been pretty decent, electronics and complex and can cause headaches.”
In particular, some owners have experienced issues with the auxiliary heating system, with all modules failing if a fault in the system develops.
