The Auto Express Used Car Awards are a great guide for the best nearly new vehicles on the market, but who could have predicted that a French SUV would have won the top prize?

The Citroen C3 Aircross would not come at the top of too many lists when considering the best SUVs on the market currently, but it certainly wowed the judges at Auto Express, claiming the title of ‘Used Car of the Year’ as well as ‘Best Used Small SUV’. Citroen had further reason to celebrate when the Grand C4 Picasso claimed the ‘Best Used MPV’ title.

Auto Express clearly has a liking for the C3 Aircross, it is a former winner in its category at the New Car Awards, and it collected the main prize this week thanks to its good looks, practical and stylish interior, and outstanding value for money.

Speaking about the double victory for the French brand, Auto Express Editor-in-Chief, Steve Fowler said: “The Citroen C3 Aircross makes a fabulous used buy. It’s one of the best small SUVs you can buy with its focus on comfort and practicality, and with plenty now on the used market it’s a bargain for families looking for an affordable, high-quality and fun car.

"The Citroen Grand C4 Picasso has long been our favourite new MPV, and the attributes that make it great - slick design, fantastic comfort and a practical and flexible interior - still ring true. It represents great value for money as a new car, but is the MPV to beat on the used market."

The Auto Express Used Car Awards highlight the best pre-owned models currently available in the UK - though you might be hard pushed to get your hands on the Picasso, only because it changed its name to the SpaceTourer in 2018.

“Winning two category awards, as well as the overall Used Car of the Year title is a huge achievement for Citroën, and a true testament to the quality engineering and enduring appeal of our model range, even as the years roll by,” said Citroen UK Managing Director, Eurig Druce.

Sell or part ex your car today