Top 10 Best Car Dealerships in South Hams

Car Buying in Rural Devon

In South Hams, a car is often essential. Rural villages, limited evening public transport and the need to reach Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay for work, shopping and healthcare make private vehicles a practical necessity for many households. Drivers here have specific needs: compact cars for narrow lanes, reliable four-wheel drive for farm tracks and steep hills, and increasingly, electric vehicles for lower running costs and environmental benefits.

Most franchised dealerships serving South Hams are located in Plymouth, Newton Abbot, Torbay and Exeter, while local garages in towns like Totnes, Kingsbridge and Ivybridge provide sales, servicing and repairs. Online car buying platforms have also grown rapidly. Here are ten of the best options.

What Makes a Great Dealership

Look for transparent pricing, a wide selection of vehicles, knowledgeable and friendly staff, comprehensive warranties, reliable aftersales servicing and positive customer reviews. Flexible finance options, part-exchange services and home delivery add convenience, particularly for buyers in rural areas.

The Top 10 Car Dealerships

1. Vospers

Vospers is a long-established South West motor group with dealerships in Plymouth and across Devon and Cornwall. Representing several major manufacturers, it is well known to South Hams drivers for new and used car sales and servicing.

2. Hendy Group

Hendy is one of the largest family-owned motor groups in the South of England, with dealerships in Exeter and other locations. It offers a broad range of brands, used cars and commercial vehicles.

3. Evans Halshaw

Evans Halshaw is a major national dealer group offering new and used cars with competitive finance options and a strong online presence. Its approved used car programmes provide peace of mind.

4. Marshall Motor Group

Marshall represents a wide range of manufacturers and is known for professional service and quality used vehicles. Its customer focus has earned strong industry recognition.

5. Motorpoint

Motorpoint is a large used car retailer specialising in nearly new vehicles at fixed prices. Its no-haggle approach and online buying options appeal to buyers seeking simplicity.

6. Arnold Clark

Arnold Clark is one of the largest independently owned car retailers in Europe. Its huge stock of new and used cars and competitive pricing make it a popular choice.

7. Tesla

Tesla sells electric vehicles directly to customers online, with delivery and service options across the UK. Its cars and charging network appeal to South Hams drivers making the switch to electric.

8. Cinch

Cinch is an online used car platform offering home delivery, a returns window and transparent pricing. It is convenient for rural buyers who want to avoid long trips to dealerships.

9. Carwow

Carwow allows buyers to compare offers from multiple dealers on new and used cars, helping them secure competitive prices. It also offers a service for selling your current vehicle.

10. Auto Trader

Auto Trader is the UK's largest automotive marketplace, listing vehicles from dealers and private sellers. Its valuation tools and dealer reviews help buyers make informed decisions.

Choosing the Right Car for South Hams

Compact hatchbacks and small SUVs handle narrow lanes and tight parking in Salcombe and Dartmouth well. Four-wheel drive is useful for rural properties, farm access and winter conditions on higher ground near Dartmoor. Hybrid and electric vehicles suit regular commutes to Plymouth or Exeter, especially if home charging is available. Consider boot space for surfboards, bikes and dogs, essential for many South Hams lifestyles.

Electric Vehicles in South Hams

Electric vehicle adoption is growing across Devon, supported by expanding public charging networks in towns, car parks and tourist attractions. Rural drivers with off-street parking benefit most from home charging. Dealers are increasingly offering EV expertise, test drives and advice on grants and charging installation.

Car Buying Trends

Online car buying, home delivery and digital finance applications have become mainstream. Subscription and leasing models are popular for those who prefer predictable monthly costs. Used car demand remains strong, and certified pre-owned programmes offer reassurance. Dealers are investing in customer experience, transparency and EV readiness.

Tips for Buying a Car

Set a budget including insurance, tax, fuel or charging and servicing. Research models and compare prices across dealers and platforms. Always test drive, ideally on roads similar to those you will use daily. Check vehicle history and warranty terms, and negotiate on extras such as servicing packages.

Aftersales and Servicing

Local garages in Totnes, Kingsbridge, Ivybridge and surrounding villages play a vital role in keeping South Hams drivers on the road. Many buyers purchase from larger dealerships but rely on trusted local garages for MOTs and routine servicing, combining choice with convenience.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer a traditional dealership like Vospers or Hendy, a fixed-price retailer such as Motorpoint or the convenience of online platforms like Cinch, South Hams drivers have excellent choices. Take your time, consider your lifestyle and find a vehicle that makes the most of life in beautiful South Devon.