Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk Reviews

Based on checking the website, Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk appears to be a legitimate, family-owned used car dealership based in Abinger Hammer, Surrey, UK.

Their online presence highlights over 30 years of industry experience, specializing in pre-owned vehicles, particularly “small first-time cars.” The site emphasizes customer satisfaction, with services like full HPI checks for peace of mind, part exchange options, and finance solutions.

While direct customer testimonials are mentioned and a “Read our reviews” link is present, the website itself doesn’t host a comprehensive, interactive review section for immediate user feedback.

The Highline Group Ltd, as it’s formally known, aims to provide a professional and supportive service, guiding customers through the car buying process.

They operate on an appointment-only basis for viewings, as vehicles are stored off-site, which is a key detail for potential visitors.

Their stocklist, while not exhaustive on the homepage, showcases a variety of pre-owned cars, often detailing key features like mileage, year, body type, and price.

They also cater to various budget ranges by categorizing vehicles under different monthly payment thresholds, aiming to simplify the search for buyers considering finance.

This approach suggests a focus on transparency and customer convenience, even if a direct, on-site review aggregation isn’t immediately visible.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Understanding The Highline Group Ltd’s Operations

The Highline Group Ltd positions itself as a seasoned player in the used car market, emphasizing decades of experience.

This section dives into their core operational model, what they offer, and how they interact with potential customers. It’s not just about selling cars.

It’s about the entire ecosystem they’ve built around that core transaction.

Decades of Experience in Used Car Sales

With over 30 years in the industry, The Highline Group Ltd touts a significant level of expertise. This kind of longevity in a competitive market often suggests a stable business with a strong understanding of vehicle sourcing, preparation, and customer service. They’ve likely navigated various market shifts, economic downturns, and changes in consumer preferences, refining their processes over time.

• Established Presence: Being “well established within the county and surrounding areas” implies a loyal customer base and a recognized name in places like Guildford, Dorking, London, and the South Coast. This geographical reach suggests they aren’t just a local corner shop but a regional player.
• Specialization: Their focus on “pre-owned, small first-time cars” is a clear niche. This means they are likely very good at identifying, acquiring, and preparing vehicles that meet the specific needs and budgets of new drivers or those looking for more economical options. This specialization can lead to better inventory selection and more tailored advice.
• Reputation Building: A business that has existed for three decades relies heavily on its reputation. The claim that “so many of our customers keep coming back to us” points to a high level of customer satisfaction and trust built over time. This is a strong indicator of reliable service.

Appointment-Only Viewings and Off-Site Storage

One crucial detail highlighted on Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk is that viewings are strictly by appointment only, with vehicles stored off-site. This operational model has both implications and benefits for the customer.

• Efficiency: For the dealership, off-site storage can mean lower overheads for a physical showroom, allowing them to potentially pass on savings or maintain competitive pricing. It also enables them to manage logistics more efficiently, bringing the specific vehicle a customer is interested in to the viewing location.
• Customer Convenience with planning: While it requires pre-planning, this model ensures a focused, personalized experience. When you arrive, the car you want to see will likely be ready, clean, and accessible, rather than you having to hunt through a large lot. It means dedicated staff attention without distractions.
• Why It Matters to You:
  • Call Ahead: Always call ahead to arrange an appointment. Failure to do so means you won’t be able to view vehicles.
  • Specific Interest: Be clear about which vehicles you’re interested in when you call, so they can ensure it’s ready for your viewing.
  • Time Management: Factor in the need for an appointment when planning your visit. This isn’t a “drop-in and browse” dealership.

The Highline Group’s Vehicle Selection and Preparation

The quality and type of vehicles a dealership sells are paramount.

Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk emphasizes a careful selection process and thorough preparation, aiming to provide customers with peace of mind.

Let’s break down what they offer in terms of their inventory and how they get cars ready for sale.

Curated Pre-Owned Car Inventory

The Highline Group prides itself on a “wide choice of pre-owned cars” that are “carefully selected by our experienced buyer.” This suggests a strategic approach to inventory rather than simply acquiring any available vehicle.

• Experienced Sourcing: An “experienced buyer” implies a deep understanding of the used car market, knowing which models hold value, are reliable, and meet their niche of “small first-time cars” or well-specified vehicles. This can translate to better quality stock for the customer.
• Variety and Niche: While they specialize in smaller, first-time cars, their displayed stock on the homepage includes models like the Land Rover Range Rover Sport albeit a 5.0 model, suggesting a specific, higher-end niche, Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Golf GTi, Abarth 595, and Ford Focus. This indicates a broader appeal within the pre-owned market, ranging from economical hatchbacks to performance-oriented vehicles.
• Example Stock Highlights as seen on site:
  • Ford Fiesta 1.6 Fiesta ST-2 T 3dr 2014: £5,590 83,000 miles – A popular choice for a blend of performance and practicality.
  • Volkswagen Polo 1.4 Polo Match Edition 5dr 2013: £6,495 66,000 miles – A reliable, efficient option often favored by new drivers.
  • Volkswagen Golf 2.0 Golf R DSG 4WD 5dr 2015: £16,395 61,000 miles – A higher-end performance hatchback, showing diversity in their offerings.
  • Abarth 595 1.4 595 Competizione 3dr 2013: £5,690 101,000 miles – A niche, sporty choice.
• Dynamic Stock: The presence of “DUE IN STOCK SOON” indicators suggests a constantly rotating inventory, meaning customers might need to check back regularly or use their “Request a Car” service if they have specific requirements.

Expert Preparation and HPI Checks

Beyond selection, the site emphasizes the thorough preparation of their vehicles, aiming to instill confidence in potential buyers. This is critical for used car dealerships. North-noir.com Reviews

• “Expertly Prepared by Our Technician”: This statement highlights an internal focus on quality control. Having dedicated technicians ensures that vehicles are not just cosmetically prepared but also mechanically sound before sale. This might include:
  • Routine servicing
  • Addressing any known faults
  • Detailing and cleaning
• Full HPI Check: This is a non-negotiable for any reputable used car dealer in the UK, and The Highline Group explicitly states they provide it. An HPI check is a comprehensive background check on a vehicle, providing crucial information such as:
  • Outstanding Finance: Confirms there’s no money owed on the car that could become your responsibility.
  • Stolen Status: Checks if the car has been reported stolen.
  • Insurance Write-Off History: Reveals if the car has been declared an insurance write-off Category A, B, S, N.
  • Mileage Discrepancies: Verifies the recorded mileage against official databases.
  • Number of Previous Owners: Provides insight into the car’s ownership history.
  • Peace of Mind: For customers, an HPI check is a vital safeguard against purchasing a problematic vehicle, protecting them from hidden liabilities.

Financial Services and Budgeting Tools

Buying a car often involves financing, and Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk addresses this by offering various financial solutions.

They explicitly state they are a “credit broker, not a lender,” which is an important distinction for consumers.

Understanding Their Role: Credit Broker vs. Lender

The Highline Group clearly states: “We are a credit broker not a lender.” This means:

• They don’t directly lend money: They don’t have their own funds to provide loans.
• They act as an intermediary: They work with a panel of finance providers lenders to find suitable finance options for you.
• They facilitate the application: They’ll help you complete the necessary paperwork and submit your application to their finance partners.
• Benefits for the Customer:
  • Access to Multiple Lenders: This can potentially lead to more competitive rates or a wider range of options than if you approached a single lender yourself.
  • Simplified Process: They handle the legwork of finding and applying to different finance companies.
  • Expert Guidance: Their team likely has experience navigating finance applications and can advise on the best options based on your credit profile and budget.

Finance Options and Budget Categorization

The website prominently features vehicles categorized by approximate monthly payment thresholds, which is a consumer-friendly approach to budgeting.

• Vehicles Under £400 per month
• Vehicles Under £350 per month
• Vehicles Under £300 per month
• Vehicles Under £250 per month
• Vehicles Under £200 per month

This categorization is highly beneficial because:

• Focus on Affordability: Many buyers prioritize monthly payments over the total purchase price. This immediately narrows down options to what is financially feasible.
• Transparency: It gives a quick visual guide to what’s available within a specific budget.
• “Adjust Finance Terms” Tool: The presence of this tool on their vehicle listings suggests they can provide instant finance quotes or estimates, allowing customers to play with deposit amounts, loan terms, and annual mileage to see how it affects their monthly payments. This level of interactivity is a significant plus for online car shopping.
• Representative % APR: They display a “Representative % APR.” This is a crucial piece of information.
  • What it means: The representative APR is the annual percentage rate that at least 51% of customers are expected to receive. Your actual APR may be higher or lower depending on your credit score, the lender, and the specific finance product.
  • Why it’s important: It gives you a benchmark to compare finance offers and understand the potential cost of borrowing.

Streamlined Selling and Part-Exchange Processes

Beyond selling cars, The Highline Group also offers services for customers looking to sell their current vehicle or use it as part exchange for a new purchase.

These services aim to simplify the transition for car owners.

Selling Your Car Directly to The Highline Group

The website clearly states, “Got a high spec great car that you are looking to sell? We want to hear from you! Sell Your Car.” This indicates a direct buying service, which can be advantageous for several reasons:

• Convenience: Selling privately can be a time-consuming and often frustrating process involving advertising, dealing with multiple inquiries, test drives, and security concerns. Selling to a dealership streamlines this significantly.
• Instant Valuation potentially: While the website doesn’t provide an instant online valuation tool, the call to action suggests they are ready to assess your vehicle.
• No Haggling Less Stress: Dealerships typically offer a single, non-negotiable price for your car, eliminating the back-and-forth often associated with private sales.
• Quick Transaction: Once a price is agreed upon, the transaction is usually fast, with immediate payment.
• Specific Interest: Their phrasing “high spec great car” suggests they might be looking for specific types of vehicles that fit their inventory profile. If your car matches this, you might get a more competitive offer.

Part Exchange Options

For those looking to upgrade their vehicle, part exchange is a popular and convenient option.

The Highline Group highlights this service: “View Part Exchange.” Internationaldrivingauthority.com Reviews

• Simplifying the Purchase: Part exchange means you trade in your old car as part of the payment for your new one. This reduces the amount of cash or finance you need for the new vehicle.
• Seamless Transition: It avoids the hassle of selling your old car separately while trying to arrange the purchase of a new one. The entire process happens with one entity.
• Potential Tax Benefits: In the UK, if you part-exchange a vehicle, the value of the part exchange reduces the taxable amount of the new vehicle, potentially saving you VAT on a portion of the purchase. Always verify current tax regulations.
• Valuation Process: When considering a part exchange, the dealership will assess your car’s condition, mileage, service history, and market value. It’s always advisable to have a realistic expectation of your car’s trade-in value, which can sometimes be lower than a private sale price due to the dealer’s need to prepare and resell the vehicle.

Customer Service and Support Philosophy

The Highline Group emphasizes a customer-centric approach, focusing on professional service and ensuring satisfaction.

This is crucial for building long-term relationships and maintaining a positive reputation in the used car market.

Professional and Personalized Service

The website states: “Our friendly staff offer a professional service, providing complete customer satisfaction at all times.

We will go the extra mile to guarantee that you receive the advice you require when buying your pre-owned car.” This paints a picture of a dealership that prioritizes the customer experience.

• Friendly Staff: This can significantly impact the car-buying experience, making it less intimidating and more enjoyable.
• Professional Service: Implies efficiency, knowledge, and adherence to high standards in all interactions.
• “Going the Extra Mile”: This suggests a willingness to invest time and effort to ensure customers are well-informed and happy with their purchase. This could involve:
  • Detailed explanations of vehicle features and history.
  • Guidance on finance options suitable for individual circumstances.
  • Post-sale support or advice.
• Personalized Assistance: The invitation to “Enquire online or visit us for personalised assistance” reinforces their commitment to tailoring their service to individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This is particularly important for first-time buyers who may need more guidance.

Accessibility and Contact Information

Clear and accessible contact information is a hallmark of a transparent business.

Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk provides multiple ways to get in touch.

• Phone Number: Prominently displayed: 01306 298228. This is essential for arranging those crucial appointments.
• Physical Address: Unit 15a Home Farm Business Park, Rad Lane, Abinger Hammer, Surrey, RH5 6RA. This gives customers a clear geographical location.
• Directions/Location: “Within easy reach of Guildford, Dorking, London & The South Coast. We are located just 10 minutes from Guildford.” This helps potential visitors gauge travel time and accessibility.
• “Get in touch” / “Enquire online”: These calls to action suggest an online inquiry form or email contact is also available, offering convenience for those who prefer written communication or are outside business hours.
• Social Media Connectivity: The “Connect with us” suggests links to social media profiles, which can be another avenue for customer interaction, updates, and reviews though specific links aren’t immediately visible in the provided text.

Assessing Customer Reviews and Testimonials

While Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk mentions “Read our reviews” and “Testimonials” in its navigation, the provided homepage text doesn’t display them directly.

For a comprehensive understanding, potential buyers would need to seek these reviews externally.

The Importance of External Review Platforms

Given that the website refers to customer reviews but doesn’t host them prominently on the homepage, customers should look to independent review platforms.

These often provide a more unfiltered view of public opinion. Thecolourforge.com Reviews

• Google Reviews: A primary source for local businesses. Google Maps listings often include star ratings and written reviews from customers detailing their experiences with sales, aftercare, and overall service.
• AutoTrader, CarGurus, or Motors.co.uk: Major car sales portals often host dealer reviews. When a dealership lists cars on these platforms, customers are usually given the option to leave a review after a purchase. These can be particularly insightful as they come from verified buyers.
• Facebook Reviews: Many businesses maintain a Facebook page with a review section, offering another avenue for feedback.
• Trustpilot/Feefo if applicable: While not every car dealership uses these, they are common for businesses that want to demonstrate verified customer feedback.

What to Look For in Reviews

When searching for reviews of The Highline Group or any car dealership, consider these points to get a balanced perspective:

• Overall Star Rating: A quick indicator, but don’t rely solely on it.
• Number of Reviews: A higher volume of reviews generally provides a more reliable average.
• Consistency of Feedback: Look for recurring themes in positive and negative reviews. Do many people praise the sales staff’s helpfulness? Or do multiple reviews mention issues with vehicle preparation?
• Dealership’s Responses to Reviews: How a business responds to negative feedback if they do can be very telling. Do they engage constructively and offer solutions?
• Specific Examples: Reviews that provide concrete examples of good or bad service are more valuable than vague statements. For instance, “John was fantastic, he stayed late to help me with finance paperwork” is more useful than “Good service.”
• Date of Reviews: Recent reviews are often more relevant than very old ones, as business practices can change over time.

Key Takeaway: While Thehighlinecargroup.co.uk builds confidence through its internal descriptions, proactively seeking out reviews on external, independent platforms like Google, AutoTrader, or others mentioned is an essential step for any discerning buyer.

Comparing The Highline Group with Industry Standards

To truly evaluate The Highline Group, it’s useful to benchmark their offerings against common practices and expectations in the used car industry.

This helps put their stated services and features into perspective.

Industry Best Practices for Used Car Sales

Reputable used car dealerships often adhere to certain standards to build trust and ensure customer satisfaction.

• Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. The Highline Group lists prices prominently, which is a good sign.
• Comprehensive Vehicle History HPI Check: As discussed, The Highline Group offers this, which is a critical industry standard. Without it, customers face significant risks.
• Pre-Sale Inspections and Preparation: Most reputable dealers perform thorough inspections and necessary repairs/servicing. The Highline Group mentions “expertly prepared by our technician,” aligning with this.
• Warranty Options: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided text, many used car dealerships offer a warranty either their own or through a third party on vehicles, especially those over a certain price or age. This is a common expectation for peace of mind. It would be worth inquiring about warranty provisions.
• Fair Part Exchange Valuations: Offering a competitive, albeit slightly lower than private sale, valuation for part-exchanged vehicles.
• Clear Finance Disclosure: Being transparent about APR, terms, and their role as a credit broker which The Highline Group clearly does.
• After-Sales Support: While not detailed, a good dealership offers support for any issues arising post-purchase.

How The Highline Group Measures Up

Based on the available information, The Highline Group appears to align well with several key industry standards:

• Experience and Reputation: Their 30 years in the business and focus on repeat customers speak volumes about their stability and potential adherence to good practices.
• HPI Checks: This is a strong positive, demonstrating commitment to transparency regarding vehicle history.
• Vehicle Preparation: Stating that cars are “expertly prepared” suggests they meet an internal standard of quality before sale.
• Finance Brokerage: Their clear statement as a credit broker, not a lender, along with displaying representative APR and offering budget categories, aligns with consumer finance transparency.
• Appointment System: While some might prefer a drop-in model, their appointment-only system is a legitimate business model, especially for dealerships with off-site storage. It can lead to a more personalized experience.

Areas for Further Inquiry/Verification for potential customers:

• Warranty: Do they offer a standard warranty on their used vehicles? If so, what are the terms and coverage?
• After-Sales Support: What is their process if an issue arises shortly after purchase?
• Detailed Service History: Do they provide full-service history records for their vehicles where available?

By considering these points, a prospective buyer can form a more complete picture of The Highline Group’s adherence to industry best practices and whether they meet individual expectations for a used car purchase.

Planning Your Visit to The Highline Group

Since The Highline Group operates on an “appointment only” basis with vehicles stored off-site, planning your visit is critical for a smooth and productive experience.

Rushing in without preparation will likely lead to disappointment. Winnsolicitors.com Reviews

Pre-Visit Checklist

Before you even pick up the phone, a bit of groundwork can save you time and ensure you get the most out of your appointment.

• Identify Specific Vehicles: Browse their “Stocklist” online. Note down the make, model, year, and reference number of any cars that genuinely interest you. Don’t just show up hoping to browse a lot.
• Check Vehicle Details: Review the online listing for mileage, body type, colour, key features e.g., FSH, HTD SEATS, RECAROS, and initial pricing. Look for any “DUE IN STOCK SOON” notices, as these won’t be immediately available for viewing.
• Budget Assessment: Have a clear idea of your budget, both for outright purchase and potential monthly finance payments. Use their “Vehicles Under £X per month” categories as a guide. If you plan to finance, consider what deposit you can afford.
• Part Exchange Information: If you plan to part-exchange your current vehicle, have its details ready: make, model, year, mileage, service history, any damage, and ideally, recent photos. Be realistic about its potential value.
• Questions Prepared: Jot down any specific questions you have about the vehicles, their service, warranty, or finance options.

Arranging Your Appointment

This is the non-negotiable step to viewing a vehicle at The Highline Group.

• Call Them: The primary contact method for appointments is via phone: 01306 298228.
• Be Specific: When you call, clearly state which vehicles you are interested in viewing. This allows them to retrieve the car from off-site storage and ensure it’s ready for your arrival.
• Confirm Location: Double-check the address: Unit 15a Home Farm Business Park, Rad Lane, Abinger Hammer, Surrey, RH5 6RA.
• Confirm Time: Agree on a precise date and time for your visit. Arriving early or late without notice might disrupt their schedule and impact your experience.
• Ask About Process: Briefly ask about what to expect during the appointment e.g., will the car be ready for a test drive, who will you be meeting.

During Your Visit

Once you’re there, make the most of the dedicated time.

• Inspect Thoroughly: Even though the car is “expertly prepared,” conduct your own visual inspection. Look at the bodywork, interior, tires, and under the bonnet.
• Test Drive: A test drive is crucial. Assess how the car handles, listen for any unusual noises, and check all controls and features. Don’t rush it.
• Ask Your Questions: Refer to your prepared list. Get clarification on anything unclear regarding the car’s history, condition, or the purchase process.
• Review Documentation: If you’re serious, ask to see the HPI check report and any available service history.
• Be Prepared to Act or not: If you’re happy, be ready to discuss next steps deposit, finance application. If it’s not the right car, politely decline and thank them for their time.

By meticulously planning your visit, you can ensure a productive and efficient experience with The Highline Group, maximizing your chances of finding the right vehicle without unnecessary delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Highline Group Ltd?

The Highline Group Ltd is a family-owned used car dealership based in Abinger Hammer, Surrey, UK, specializing in pre-owned vehicles, particularly small first-time cars, with over 30 years of industry experience.

What kind of cars does The Highline Group sell?

The Highline Group sells a wide choice of pre-owned cars, including small first-time cars and various other models such as Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Golf, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and Abarth.

Where is The Highline Group Ltd located?

The Highline Group Ltd is located at Unit 15a Home Farm Business Park, Rad Lane, Abinger Hammer, Surrey, RH5 6RA.

They are easily accessible from Guildford, Dorking, London, and the South Coast.

Do I need an appointment to view a car at The Highline Group?

Yes, viewings at The Highline Group are strictly by appointment only, as vehicles are stored off-site. You must call ahead to arrange an appointment.

How can I contact The Highline Group to make an appointment?

You can contact The Highline Group to make an appointment by calling them at 01306 298228. Origym.co.uk Reviews

Does The Highline Group offer car finance?

Yes, The Highline Group offers finance solutions for their vehicles.

They are a credit broker, not a lender, meaning they work with various finance providers to find suitable options for customers.

Does The Highline Group perform HPI checks on their vehicles?

Yes, each of their used vehicles comes with a full HPI check for customer peace of mind, verifying its history for outstanding finance, stolen status, write-off history, and more.

Can I part exchange my current car with The Highline Group?

Yes, The Highline Group offers part exchange options, allowing you to trade in your current vehicle as part of the payment for a new one.

Does The Highline Group buy cars directly from customers?

Yes, The Highline Group states they are interested in buying “high spec great cars” from individuals looking to sell their vehicles.

How long has The Highline Group been in business?

The Highline Group has over 30 years of experience in the used car industry.

Are the cars at The Highline Group expertly prepared?

Yes, the website states that all their cars are “expertly prepared by our technician” to ensure quality.

Can I browse cars by monthly payment at The Highline Group?

Yes, the website categorizes vehicles by approximate monthly payment thresholds, such as “Vehicles Under £400 per month” down to “Vehicles Under £200 per month.”

What does “FSH” mean in their car listings?

FSH typically stands for “Full Service History,” indicating that the vehicle has a complete record of its maintenance and servicing.

Do they have new cars or only used cars?

Based on the website, The Highline Group specializes in pre-owned, used cars. Getuvlizer.com Reviews

How do I know if a car is “DUE IN STOCK SOON”?

The website listings for vehicles that are not yet physically available will typically include a “DUE IN STOCK SOON” indicator.

What kind of customer service can I expect from The Highline Group?

The Highline Group emphasizes friendly staff offering a professional service, aiming for complete customer satisfaction and providing advice to help you find the perfect pre-owned car.

Is The Highline Group good for first-time car buyers?

Yes, they specialize in “small first-time cars” and aim to provide the necessary advice and guidance, making them a suitable option for first-time buyers.

How can I get a personalized finance quote?

The website mentions an “Adjust Finance Terms” tool on their vehicle listings, which likely allows you to adjust parameters like deposit and term to get an estimated monthly payment.

You can also discuss options during your appointment.

What should I do if I want a specific car that isn’t currently in their stocklist?

The Highline Group offers a “Request a Car” service, suggesting they can help source a specific vehicle for you even if it’s not currently advertised.

Where can I read customer reviews for The Highline Group?

While the website mentions “Read our reviews” and “Testimonials,” for comprehensive and independent feedback, it’s advisable to search for reviews on external platforms like Google Reviews, AutoTrader, or other reputable car sales portals.