Buying a new or used Hybrid car in Northern Ireland

chrisfroome · 22-03-2026 09:59PM #1

I have found the MG ZS Hybrid+ car which is new and based on the trade in value would cost me €12000 extra including the difference in price between the trade in price on my car to the new car plus VRT and VAT. Altogether €29000 or thereabouts which is amazing for a beautiful small SUV which suits us perfectly. However, I have read that you can avoid VAT if a car has driven over 6000 miles and it at least 6 months old. I have seen a car at the same garage which is 1 year old but has done 11000 miles but or course is cheaper and I would not have to pay VAT. I am wondering is it best to go for the new or the used car? When is putting me off buying new if I am honest is the depreciation and VAT itself. Sorry if this sounds confusing but this is the first time I have done this.

User1998 · 23-03-2026 12:53AM

The used car is the better option

k123456 · 23-03-2026 10:27AM

Hi There, this thread covers most queries

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058323723/vrt-relief-for-ev-039-s-imported-from-northern-ireland

and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t31GjVLSxTw&t=1131s

chrisfroome · 23-03-2026 10:04PM

Appreciate the comments. I am not however buying a EV. I am buying a petrol hybrid. I have decided to go for the used car. and paid the deposit today. Interesting though, he advised that the car is coming from the UK but that he will sign a VAT exemption form so that I do not pay VAT with Revenue here.Has anybody heard of or being part of this process by any chance?

User1998 · 23-03-2026 10:17PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/124335795#Comment_124335795

It's a TSS form or SAD document

k123456 · 24-03-2026 08:58AM

Quick question on the Sad or Tss doc, does the car physically have to be in Northern Ireland for three months to avoid Vrt Vat, or is that time window of three months not relavant

User1998 · 24-03-2026 09:48AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/124336292#Comment_124336292

irrelevant. Been discussed multiple times

Buying a new or used Hybrid car in Northern Ireland

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