Cars to beat the slump

16:46, Jul 14 2009 Matt Tumbridge

THE recession is likely to hit families on a budget hardest if they have to change their car because the market is so erratic. Families wanting to be frugal will tend to assume they need to buy a mainstream brand such as Vauxhall or a 'discount' brand such as Citroen. But in fact, looking at the best and worst performers of the last four years, there are surprises among the niche, slightly more expensive cars. Saabs and Mazdas for example both make great sense for nearly new buyers wanting to trade after a couple of years. Here are three good picks that have lost a lot but shouldn't lose much more than two or three per cent in value in the year ahead: Mazda3 If you don't want to look like everyone else, want performance, reliability and value then the Mazda3 is worthy of a test drive. Best used buy: 1.6 TS Most economical: 1.6 D UsedCarExpert.com faults: 10 Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2008 Mazda 3 1.6 TS with 9,375 average miles is £9,340 Saab 9-3 Distinctive and fashionable styling without being controversial. Like its predecessor the 9-3 has an excellent balance of performance refinement handling and comfort. Best used buy: 1.8 t Jet Most economical: 1.9 TiD 50mpg UsedCarExpert.com faults: 12 Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2008 Saab 9-3 1.8 t jet with 7280 average miles is £14,000 BMW 3 Series Expensive and popular but probably worth it. Handling and performance are market-leading. Space and equipment are average. But the badge ensures admiring glances. Best used buy: 318d Most economical: 320i M sport UsedCarExpert.com faults: 14 Used Car Expert price guide: A fair price for a 2006 BMW 325i SE with 41,000 average miles is £14,106