Used cars of the week: Mercedes C-Class rivals priced from just 9000

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has just been unveiled ahead of its launch at the Detroit motor show in January 2014. Mercedes is hoping that the new car's premium interior will shake up the compact executive category and steal back buyers from the competition.

However, if you're not in the market for a new car but are after a used compact executive, here's our picks of the best ones we've found in the What Car? approved used classifieds.

Audi A4

Audi's A4 is a popular choice with fleet buyers, thanks to its generous specification and proven reliability. There's a wide choice of models to choose from on the used market, too. This '10/10 2.0 TDI Executive SE model comes with cruise control, climate control, automatic wipers and just 30,000 miles on the clock. It can be yours for £14,000.

Audi A5 Sportback

The second Audi on the list is the A5 Sportback. It offers a similar amount of space as the A4 but in a more stylish package. This 2.0 TFSI SE is from 2010 and has done 49,000 miles. It's got a great specification including leather seats, air-conditioning and rear parking sensors. You can buy it for £13,899.

BMW 3 Series

BMW's 3 Series is one of our favourite compact executives and one of the best cars to drive in the class. This '09/58 318d SE comes with the preferred automatic gearbox and has done 49,000 miles. It's on sale for just £10,654.

Lexus IS

The Lexus IS might not handle as well as its German rivals but it does boast a generous level of equipment and an excellent reliability record. This '08/08 2.2 TD has covered 59,000 miles and comes with cruise control, climate control, and keyless entry and start. It's the cheapest car on the list, priced at £8995.

Volvo S60

Volvo's S60 is a classy and comfortable car that comes with an array of safety equipment. This '11/61 D3 SE has done just 30,000 miles and can be picked up for £13,480.

Visit our Approved Used Cars finder to uncover hundreds of other choices from Trusted Dealers.