Consumers looking for a new vehicle this season have been encouraged to follow recent advice and achieve certain discounts.

According to Which? Car, there are various bargains to be had on forecourts and motorists should try to match or even beat the cost obtained by the magazine.

An example given was for those purchasing a new Ford Mondeo. Which? Car said it was discounted 26 per cent off the total price - a proportion equivalent to some £7,000.

The Audi A8 was brought down in price by 19 per cent (up to £15,100) and drivers looking for a Citroen Xsara Picasso should try to achieve 29 per cent off (a maximum of £4,900).

Its suggestions were given after a recent survey found that three per cent of respondents said they planned to buy a brand-new car in 2009.

The consumer watchdog said it is worth weighing up the savings one could make on a first-hand vehicle versus how much a used car might be.

Editor-in-chief Richard Headland added: "The downturn has thrown the car industry into turmoil and that means there are some amazing car deals available - whether you're looking to buy new or used."

Of course, buying a new car is likely to mean an updated or completely different car insurance policy, so motorists should make sure they complete the relevant paperwork.

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