Why buy a second-hand ute? Here are five compelling reasons

Utes have always been popular in New Zealand, but that general love of the trusty work vehicle has skyrocketed into something so much more in recent years.

The ute has well and truly taken over from the SUV in terms of being a vehicle that can do it all, while aggressive styling on some special editions has also made them much more desirable. With utes at the height of their popularity, here are 5 reasons why now is the perfect time to buy a second-hand ute.

1. There’s an amazing selection of utes on the second-hand market

In February of this year, utes accounted for more than a fifth of all vehicles sold in New Zealand that month. And it doesn’t just mean there’s a high volume of second-hand utes for buyers to choose from either, but a massive variety too. 

From long-proven classics like the Nissan Navara and Mazda BT-50 to exciting newcomers like the Great Wall Motors Cannon, the comprehensive selection of second-hand utes available in New Zealand means there’s something to fit every budget and need. 

2. Second-hand utes are a safe choice

Whether it’s a work ute or a family vehicle, it has to be safe. Utes have always been a safe and rugged option.

Popular perceptions aside, we now also have the data to show that second-hand utes are an incredibly safe option. The majority of utes sold in New Zealand in recent years have earned 5 Star ANCAP safety ratings, which gives buyers peace of mind no matter what model they’re looking at.  

3. Everyone else has bought one already

There’s value in letting everybody else be early adopters. The explosion of ute popularity, with more on the roads than ever before means there’s more information about which ones are worthy purchases and how much they’ll cost to service. 

It also means you probably have a good idea of which one you want, so whenever that Nissan Navara drives past you probably find yourself imagining what yours could look like. And that brings us to another point that relates specifically to buying a second hand ute.

4. There are a tonne of aftermarket parts available

Not since the days of hot hatchbacks and other Japanese imports in the late 90s and early 2000s have we seen a type of vehicle be so readily modified. Sure, most utes are already perfectly equipped to do everything from the school run to the weekend Bunnings trip, but there’s so much more you can do with them.

From lift kits and off-road ready tyres to canopies and maybe even a bull bar, there’s a crazy number of ways to personalise your ute or specialise it further. It’s got to the point now with some manufacturers trying to get ahead of the curve by offering their own modified versions. However, we all know that’s never going to be the same as buying the perfect second-hand ute and customising it how you want. 

5. They’re still the best all-round vehicle

SUVs may be an extremely practical family vehicle, but the rise of the double-cab ute (as opposed to the 2-door versions that were common a couple of decades ago) mean they’re all-rounders. The open trays and readily available four-wheel drive options mean utes can go from the construction site to dropping off the kids at rugby practice without looking out of place. 

Chances are you already want a ute, so the real question is why haven’t you bought a second-hand one yet? We have a great range on the lot so drop in at your local Niccars branch soon and see which ute works for you.