Best small cars 2025
High quality small cars from rated and reviewed dealers
Last updated March 28, 2025 by
Darren Cassey
Best small cars of 2025: our favourite small cars for inner city driving
The best small cars combine their miniature dimensions with surprising space, low running costs and an engaging drive – all while being the perfect cars to navigate tight city streets without falling apart at the first sign of a motorway.
While you might expect small cars to be impractical, the best models tend to prioritise cabin space or boot capacity, usually at the expense of the other. That means that if you carry four passengers regularly you should still be able to find a small car that will keep everyone comfortable. However, if you often pack the boot with luggage you can prioritise small cars with big boots – though an enthusiastic IKEA shop might still be out of the question.
Most small cars are petrol-powered, but there are also plenty of hybrid and electric models too. This list combines the lot, so if you’re considering making the switch to electric you’ll find some of our favourite small electric cars to get you started – though it’s worth noting that if you don’t have access to cheap charging at home or work, this might not be your best option. Hybrid models combine the silent, zero-emission low-speed running of electric with the security of petrol power for longer journeys.
Carwow’s expert reviews team has driven every small car on sale today to help refine your choice. This selection of the best small cars offers a mix of practicality, badge appeal and comfort, with something for every budget.
2025
Smart Spender Award
Highly Commended
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: chic style for cheap
The Renault Clio is a fantastic small car, because while it’s firmly in the affordable car camp, you’d never know it just from the looks.
Up front, those slim headlights and funky daytime running lights mean it can turn heads outside the school gates, making alternatives like the Vauxhall Corsa look like they've turned up in their dad's clothes. Sure, the tweaks at the back aren't exactly groundbreaking, but the Clio still carries itself with enough chic to rival the Peugeot 208 – at a far more wallet-friendly price.
Inside there’s a posh vibe going on, with soft-touch materials and swanky climate controls, although the cheaper plastics lurking lower down remind you you're still firmly in value territory. Tech-wise, you'll either love the top-spec model’s 9.3-inch infotainment screen or tolerate the slightly slow and simple 7.0-inch alternative – luckily, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come to the rescue.
Space up front is good, but passengers taller than six feet will feel cramped in the back, making longer trips a bit cosy. The massive 391-litre boot (in petrol form at least) more than compensates, making it ideal if you haul around sports equipment or just need somewhere to put the big shop.
Under the bonnet, you've got a simple choice: an efficient but leisurely petrol or a pricier hybrid. The hybrid’s punchier and brilliantly smooth around town and returns better fuel economy, but the petrol engine is cheaper to buy so might work out more cost-effective in the long run.
The Clio’s a tad less refined than the VW Polo at high speeds and can become unsettled over bumps, but it’s nothing deal-breaking, and it’s excellent around town, even if rear visibility is a bit disappointing.
Bottom line: if you want stylish looks, generous practicality, and great value wrapped up in a compact package, the Clio's hard to beat.
The Renault Clio is a fantastic small car, because while it’s firmly in the affordable car camp, you’d never know it just from the looks.
Up front, those slim headlights and funky daytime running lights mean it can turn heads outside the school gates, making alternatives like the Vauxhall Corsa look like they've turned up in their dad's clothes. Sure, the tweaks at the back aren't exactly groundbreaking, but the Clio still carries itself with enough chic to rival the Peugeot 208 – at a far more wallet-friendly price.
Inside there’s a posh vibe going on, with soft-touch materials and swanky climate controls, although the cheaper plastics lurking lower down remind you you're still firmly in value territory. Tech-wise, you'll either love the top-spec model’s 9.3-inch infotainment screen or tolerate the slightly slow and simple 7.0-inch alternative – luckily, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come to the rescue.
Space up front is good, but passengers taller than six feet will feel cramped in the back, making longer trips a bit cosy. The massive 391-litre boot (in petrol form at least) more than compensates, making it ideal if you haul around sports equipment or just need somewhere to put the big shop.
Under the bonnet, you've got a simple choice: an efficient but leisurely petrol or a pricier hybrid. The hybrid’s punchier and brilliantly smooth around town and returns better fuel economy, but the petrol engine is cheaper to buy so might work out more cost-effective in the long run.
The Clio’s a tad less refined than the VW Polo at high speeds and can become unsettled over bumps, but it’s nothing deal-breaking, and it’s excellent around town, even if rear visibility is a bit disappointing.
Bottom line: if you want stylish looks, generous practicality, and great value wrapped up in a compact package, the Clio's hard to beat.
2025
Smart Spender Award
Highly Commended
Battery range up to 199 miles
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: going electric on a budget
The Citroen e-C3 is arguably the beginning of a bargain electric car revolution, because it’s the cheapest proper electric car out there.
The e-C3 has ditched its old hatchback shape for a chunkier SUV-lite style. Inside, it cleverly masks its bargain price – fabric on the dash and neat materials lift it above typical budget fare, although cheaper plastics do lurk if you go hunting.
Tech is decent, including the responsive 10.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though annoyingly, there's no traditional volume knob. Thankfully, climate controls remain button-based.
Space is solid up front, and headroom is excellent due to the extra height of the SUV shape. Rear space isn't bad either, though legroom could be tight for tall passengers. Boot space is a handy 310 litres, beating some alternatives like the Vauxhall Corsa Electric, but the high loading lip makes lifting heavy gear in a bit awkward.
Driving the e-C3 is all about comfiness rather than sportiness. Citroen’s 'Advanced Comfort' suspension happily munches potholes and bumps, ideal for Britain's cratered roads. Around town, it’s smooth and easy-going, thanks to good visibility and a tight turning circle.
Motorway driving is manageable, although the top speed of 84mph won’t set hearts racing. It’s stable enough at regular cruising speeds, but high-speed refinement trails more expensive alternatives.
That said, motorway jaunts probably shouldn’t be a regular occurrence – officially, the range is 199 miles, but realistically expect around 150-160 miles, so you’ll be charging often. Fortunately, the small battery means topping up doesn’t take forever – you’ll see 0-80% in under 30 mins at rapid chargers.
So, desirable or just cheap and cheerful? Honestly, the Citroen e-C3 is both. It's far from thrilling, but as affordable electric motoring goes, it delivers comfort, practicality, and exceptional value. If your wallet matters more than thrills on a twisty road, the e-C3 should be top of your shopping list.
The Citroen e-C3 is arguably the beginning of a bargain electric car revolution, because it’s the cheapest proper electric car out there.
The e-C3 has ditched its old hatchback shape for a chunkier SUV-lite style. Inside, it cleverly masks its bargain price – fabric on the dash and neat materials lift it above typical budget fare, although cheaper plastics do lurk if you go hunting.
Tech is decent, including the responsive 10.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though annoyingly, there's no traditional volume knob. Thankfully, climate controls remain button-based.
Space is solid up front, and headroom is excellent due to the extra height of the SUV shape. Rear space isn't bad either, though legroom could be tight for tall passengers. Boot space is a handy 310 litres, beating some alternatives like the Vauxhall Corsa Electric, but the high loading lip makes lifting heavy gear in a bit awkward.
Driving the e-C3 is all about comfiness rather than sportiness. Citroen’s 'Advanced Comfort' suspension happily munches potholes and bumps, ideal for Britain's cratered roads. Around town, it’s smooth and easy-going, thanks to good visibility and a tight turning circle.
Motorway driving is manageable, although the top speed of 84mph won’t set hearts racing. It’s stable enough at regular cruising speeds, but high-speed refinement trails more expensive alternatives.
That said, motorway jaunts probably shouldn’t be a regular occurrence – officially, the range is 199 miles, but realistically expect around 150-160 miles, so you’ll be charging often. Fortunately, the small battery means topping up doesn’t take forever – you’ll see 0-80% in under 30 mins at rapid chargers.
So, desirable or just cheap and cheerful? Honestly, the Citroen e-C3 is both. It's far from thrilling, but as affordable electric motoring goes, it delivers comfort, practicality, and exceptional value. If your wallet matters more than thrills on a twisty road, the e-C3 should be top of your shopping list.
2025
Urban Living Award
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: hybrid fuel economy
The Toyota Yaris Cross takes the compact, fuel-efficient formula of the regular Yaris and beefs it up into a stylish small SUV. It’s taller, chunkier, and looks the part with rugged plastic cladding and sleek LED lighting – imagine a sensible hatchback hitting the gym.
Step inside, however, and things are less inspiring. The interior, though solidly built with soft-touch plastics, lacks excitement compared to alternatives like the Peugeot 2008 or VW T-Cross. It’s functional and straightforward, just missing a bit of flair. On the plus side, the standard touchscreen infotainment (9.0-inch entry-level, 10.5-inch higher trims) is clear, responsive, and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Space upfront is generous, with supportive seats offering plenty of adjustability. Rear space is tighter – two adults fit comfortably, but taller passengers might have to put up with their hair brushing against the roof. Meanwhile, families could find fitting child seats tricky due to narrow rear doors.
The boot offers a respectable 397 litres of space, with clever touches like an adjustable floor and handy storage hooks, though it trails the class-leading Renault Captur.
Driving around town, the Yaris Cross is excellent – light steering, great visibility, and the hybrid engine’s instant electric punch makes nipping about effortless. The hybrid powertrain (116hp as standard or 130hp in GR Sport trim) is efficient, easily achieving around 60mpg. It’s quiet at motorway speeds too, though overtaking demands patience, especially with the lower-powered engine.
Firm suspension means the Yaris Cross corners neatly with little body roll, though the trade-off is a slightly jittery ride over potholes. It's confident, if not thrilling, through bends – if fun is a priority, consider the Ford Puma instead.
Overall, if practicality, efficiency, and reliability top your list, the Yaris Cross is a smart choice – even if it's not the most exciting option in this list. Oh, and Toyota’s reliability record is reassuringly fantastic, backed by a warranty extendable to 10 years with regular servicing.
The Toyota Yaris Cross takes the compact, fuel-efficient formula of the regular Yaris and beefs it up into a stylish small SUV. It’s taller, chunkier, and looks the part with rugged plastic cladding and sleek LED lighting – imagine a sensible hatchback hitting the gym.
Step inside, however, and things are less inspiring. The interior, though solidly built with soft-touch plastics, lacks excitement compared to alternatives like the Peugeot 2008 or VW T-Cross. It’s functional and straightforward, just missing a bit of flair. On the plus side, the standard touchscreen infotainment (9.0-inch entry-level, 10.5-inch higher trims) is clear, responsive, and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Space upfront is generous, with supportive seats offering plenty of adjustability. Rear space is tighter – two adults fit comfortably, but taller passengers might have to put up with their hair brushing against the roof. Meanwhile, families could find fitting child seats tricky due to narrow rear doors.
The boot offers a respectable 397 litres of space, with clever touches like an adjustable floor and handy storage hooks, though it trails the class-leading Renault Captur.
Driving around town, the Yaris Cross is excellent – light steering, great visibility, and the hybrid engine’s instant electric punch makes nipping about effortless. The hybrid powertrain (116hp as standard or 130hp in GR Sport trim) is efficient, easily achieving around 60mpg. It’s quiet at motorway speeds too, though overtaking demands patience, especially with the lower-powered engine.
Firm suspension means the Yaris Cross corners neatly with little body roll, though the trade-off is a slightly jittery ride over potholes. It's confident, if not thrilling, through bends – if fun is a priority, consider the Ford Puma instead.
Overall, if practicality, efficiency, and reliability top your list, the Yaris Cross is a smart choice – even if it's not the most exciting option in this list. Oh, and Toyota’s reliability record is reassuringly fantastic, backed by a warranty extendable to 10 years with regular servicing.
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Best for: Scandi style
The Volvo EX30 is like a trendy Stockholm apartment – stylish, compact, and full of clever design touches.
Despite being Volvo’s smallest SUV, it punches above its weight in the looks department, offering crisp exterior styling and a minimalist, upscale interior. There are some cheaper plastics to be found lower down, but quality touches like metal door handles and a big, bright infotainment screen lift the cabin. Annoyingly, almost everything – down to opening the glovebox – is controlled through the touchscreen, which is fiddly at best.
Practicality is a mixed bag: decent storage solutions upfront include clever pop-out cupholders and hidden compartments, though rear passengers face tight knee space despite comfortable seats and generous headroom. Boot space is small at 318 litres (only 260 litres above the floor), which is behind alternatives like the Volkswagen ID3.
The EX30 impresses on the road, prioritising comfort. It’s outstandingly smooth over bumps, making city driving relaxing and quiet. Visibility is good, steering is light, and one-pedal driving adds convenience. Motorway journeys are smooth, with minor road noise being the only downside.
Electric options range from a 214-mile entry model to a version with brisk performance offering 286 miles and stunning acceleration. Real-world efficiency impresses, too.
The Volvo EX30 is like a trendy Stockholm apartment – stylish, compact, and full of clever design touches.
Despite being Volvo’s smallest SUV, it punches above its weight in the looks department, offering crisp exterior styling and a minimalist, upscale interior. There are some cheaper plastics to be found lower down, but quality touches like metal door handles and a big, bright infotainment screen lift the cabin. Annoyingly, almost everything – down to opening the glovebox – is controlled through the touchscreen, which is fiddly at best.
Practicality is a mixed bag: decent storage solutions upfront include clever pop-out cupholders and hidden compartments, though rear passengers face tight knee space despite comfortable seats and generous headroom. Boot space is small at 318 litres (only 260 litres above the floor), which is behind alternatives like the Volkswagen ID3.
The EX30 impresses on the road, prioritising comfort. It’s outstandingly smooth over bumps, making city driving relaxing and quiet. Visibility is good, steering is light, and one-pedal driving adds convenience. Motorway journeys are smooth, with minor road noise being the only downside.
Electric options range from a 214-mile entry model to a version with brisk performance offering 286 miles and stunning acceleration. Real-world efficiency impresses, too.
Best for: retro style
The Renault 5 isn't just another small electric car – it's a head-turning, retro-inspired hatchback brimming with character. Taking cues from the iconic 1970s model, its futuristic yet nostalgic exterior stands out, especially painted in eye-catching colours like vivid green. Distinctive touches, such as the broken square daytime running lights and an illuminated '5' on the bonnet, cleverly blend classic design with a modern aesthetic.
Inside, the Renault 5 has a simple but stylish interior with high-quality materials, ensuring it feels more premium than you'd expect from its price tag. Two clear digital screens for driving information and infotainment add to its appeal, complemented by easy-to-use physical climate controls.
Taller drivers may find the front seats a bit snug, and rear legroom is tight. However, practicality isn't forgotten; its 326-litre boot is larger than alternatives like the Citroen e-C3 and Hyundai Inster.
Battery options cater to different needs, with ranges of 190 miles or 248 miles, which is a similar ballpark to alternatives. On the road, the Renault 5 feels agile and sporty, perfectly suited to twisty country lanes and busy city streets, although motorway journeys highlight some wind and road noise.
The Renault 5 isn't just another small electric car – it's a head-turning, retro-inspired hatchback brimming with character. Taking cues from the iconic 1970s model, its futuristic yet nostalgic exterior stands out, especially painted in eye-catching colours like vivid green. Distinctive touches, such as the broken square daytime running lights and an illuminated '5' on the bonnet, cleverly blend classic design with a modern aesthetic.
Inside, the Renault 5 has a simple but stylish interior with high-quality materials, ensuring it feels more premium than you'd expect from its price tag. Two clear digital screens for driving information and infotainment add to its appeal, complemented by easy-to-use physical climate controls.
Taller drivers may find the front seats a bit snug, and rear legroom is tight. However, practicality isn't forgotten; its 326-litre boot is larger than alternatives like the Citroen e-C3 and Hyundai Inster.
Battery options cater to different needs, with ranges of 190 miles or 248 miles, which is a similar ballpark to alternatives. On the road, the Renault 5 feels agile and sporty, perfectly suited to twisty country lanes and busy city streets, although motorway journeys highlight some wind and road noise.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: punchy hybrid power
The MG3 has transformed from something you’d only buy because it was really cheap into an attractive and appealing small hybrid car. Its modern exterior is a welcome upgrade from its dated predecessor, and inside it’s similarly improved with a minimalist dashboard and stylish touches like tartan-patterned trims.
Although MG clearly cut some corners – such as flimsy storage compartment covers and hard plastics – the overall feel isn't significantly cheaper than pricier alternatives like the Toyota Yaris or Renault Clio.
Interior tech is impressive, featuring a large touchscreen, digital dashboard, climate control, sat nav, and comprehensive driver assistance as standard. However, the infotainment system can be fiddly due to small menu buttons, and smartphone connectivity lacks wireless capability.
Practicality is merely average. Front passengers have decent comfort but limited seat and steering wheel adjustments. Rear seats accommodate two adults adequately, though the boot is modest at 293 litres, and annoyingly, lacks split-fold seats.
On the road, the MG3 impresses with its 191hp hybrid system, making overtaking effortless and motorway entries relaxed. Driving is smooth around town thanks to significant electric assistance, despite some engine noise when charging the battery. Its handling is unexpectedly delightful, proving agile and engaging on twisty roads.
The hybrid engine’s fuel economy is slightly disappointing, but the MG3’s enjoyable driving dynamics, comprehensive equipment, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice.
The MG3 has transformed from something you’d only buy because it was really cheap into an attractive and appealing small hybrid car. Its modern exterior is a welcome upgrade from its dated predecessor, and inside it’s similarly improved with a minimalist dashboard and stylish touches like tartan-patterned trims.
Although MG clearly cut some corners – such as flimsy storage compartment covers and hard plastics – the overall feel isn't significantly cheaper than pricier alternatives like the Toyota Yaris or Renault Clio.
Interior tech is impressive, featuring a large touchscreen, digital dashboard, climate control, sat nav, and comprehensive driver assistance as standard. However, the infotainment system can be fiddly due to small menu buttons, and smartphone connectivity lacks wireless capability.
Practicality is merely average. Front passengers have decent comfort but limited seat and steering wheel adjustments. Rear seats accommodate two adults adequately, though the boot is modest at 293 litres, and annoyingly, lacks split-fold seats.
On the road, the MG3 impresses with its 191hp hybrid system, making overtaking effortless and motorway entries relaxed. Driving is smooth around town thanks to significant electric assistance, despite some engine noise when charging the battery. Its handling is unexpectedly delightful, proving agile and engaging on twisty roads.
The hybrid engine’s fuel economy is slightly disappointing, but the MG3’s enjoyable driving dynamics, comprehensive equipment, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: plain practicality
The Skoda Fabia is a practical and affordable small hatchback that you buy with your head, rather than your heart. Its design is neat but conservative – nothing flashy, but appealing enough.
Inside, the Fabia offers decent quality with touches of colour and practical features, though some materials feel budget-friendly. The cabin includes a clear, user-friendly infotainment system, although basic models have smaller screens.
Space is a real strength: the Fabia has a generous 380-litre boot – larger than the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza. Rear-seat passengers benefit from excellent head and legroom, easy-to-access ISOFIX points, and practical storage throughout.
Driving the Fabia is comfortable and hassle-free, particularly around town, thanks to its small turning circle, easy parking, and light steering. The suspension effectively smooths out bumps, making motorway journeys quiet and comfortable, though driving excitement is limited on twisty roads.
Engine choices include efficient petrol options from 80 to 150hp, but there’s unfortunately no hybrid or electric version. The recommended 110hp turbo-petrol offers good performance without sacrificing economy.
Overall, the Skoda Fabia prioritises practicality, comfort, and affordability, making it a compelling choice if you're after a sensible small car. It might lack excitement and premium materials, but it excels at what really matters day-to-day.
The Skoda Fabia is a practical and affordable small hatchback that you buy with your head, rather than your heart. Its design is neat but conservative – nothing flashy, but appealing enough.
Inside, the Fabia offers decent quality with touches of colour and practical features, though some materials feel budget-friendly. The cabin includes a clear, user-friendly infotainment system, although basic models have smaller screens.
Space is a real strength: the Fabia has a generous 380-litre boot – larger than the Volkswagen Polo and SEAT Ibiza. Rear-seat passengers benefit from excellent head and legroom, easy-to-access ISOFIX points, and practical storage throughout.
Driving the Fabia is comfortable and hassle-free, particularly around town, thanks to its small turning circle, easy parking, and light steering. The suspension effectively smooths out bumps, making motorway journeys quiet and comfortable, though driving excitement is limited on twisty roads.
Engine choices include efficient petrol options from 80 to 150hp, but there’s unfortunately no hybrid or electric version. The recommended 110hp turbo-petrol offers good performance without sacrificing economy.
Overall, the Skoda Fabia prioritises practicality, comfort, and affordability, making it a compelling choice if you're after a sensible small car. It might lack excitement and premium materials, but it excels at what really matters day-to-day.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: Big car refinement
The Volkswagen T-Cross stands out as a practical and refined choice among small SUVs. Its neat styling has a subtle sophistication, but still works well in playful colours like "Rubber Ducky Yellow".
The latest models have significantly improved cabin quality. Materials now feel more premium, particularly on the dashboard and doors, although some harder plastics remain. The interior layout is logical and user-friendly, although replacing traditional climate controls with touch-sensitive buttons is less intuitive. Every trim comes with a clear touchscreen infotainment system and digital dashboard, supporting wireless smartphone connectivity.
Space and practicality are the T-Cross's strongest points. There's plenty of room up front, and rear-seat passengers enjoy excellent head and legroom, with sliding seats enhancing versatility between passenger comfort and boot space. Boot capacity is impressive, ranging from 385 to 455 litres depending on seat positioning, outclassing many alternatives.
Driving the T-Cross is reassuring rather than thrilling. It feels stable, composed, and easy around town, benefiting from excellent visibility and compact dimensions. However, for more spirited driving, alternatives like the Ford Puma offer greater excitement. Comfort levels are generally good, though motorway refinement suffers slightly from wind noise.
Engine-wise, the mid-range 110hp petrol is the pick, offering a good balance of efficiency and performance. While it lacks hybrid options, the petrol engines are economical enough.
The Volkswagen T-Cross stands out as a practical and refined choice among small SUVs. Its neat styling has a subtle sophistication, but still works well in playful colours like "Rubber Ducky Yellow".
The latest models have significantly improved cabin quality. Materials now feel more premium, particularly on the dashboard and doors, although some harder plastics remain. The interior layout is logical and user-friendly, although replacing traditional climate controls with touch-sensitive buttons is less intuitive. Every trim comes with a clear touchscreen infotainment system and digital dashboard, supporting wireless smartphone connectivity.
Space and practicality are the T-Cross's strongest points. There's plenty of room up front, and rear-seat passengers enjoy excellent head and legroom, with sliding seats enhancing versatility between passenger comfort and boot space. Boot capacity is impressive, ranging from 385 to 455 litres depending on seat positioning, outclassing many alternatives.
Driving the T-Cross is reassuring rather than thrilling. It feels stable, composed, and easy around town, benefiting from excellent visibility and compact dimensions. However, for more spirited driving, alternatives like the Ford Puma offer greater excitement. Comfort levels are generally good, though motorway refinement suffers slightly from wind noise.
Engine-wise, the mid-range 110hp petrol is the pick, offering a good balance of efficiency and performance. While it lacks hybrid options, the petrol engines are economical enough.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: being fun to drive
The Ford Puma is a fun-to-drive small SUV that effectively fills the gap left by the much-loved Fiesta. A 2024 update modernised the exterior, but it's still easily recognisable, featuring sporty styling that sets it apart from more sedate alternatives like the Volkswagen T-Cross.
Inside, the Puma received major updates with a huge 12.0-inch touchscreen dominating the dashboard. While tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the big screen, it replaces nearly all physical buttons, making it tricky to use while driving. Interior quality is a letdown since the update, though – the cabin materials feel noticeably cheaper compared to the Peugeot 2008.
Practicality in the Puma is mixed. Front occupants get comfortable seats and decent storage, but rear passengers might struggle, particularly with three adults or taller people. Its standout feature is practicality: the spacious 456-litre boot includes a clever 80-litre 'Megabox' compartment beneath the floor, ideal for putting muddy boots after a walk because you can hose them down and use the plug to drain the water away.
Driving is where the Puma shines brightest. Quick steering and punchy engines – especially the 155hp mild hybrid – make it genuinely enjoyable on twisty roads, although it can feel a bit stiff over bumps, particularly in sportier trims. Motorway refinement is adequate but not outstanding.
The Ford Puma is a fun-to-drive small SUV that effectively fills the gap left by the much-loved Fiesta. A 2024 update modernised the exterior, but it's still easily recognisable, featuring sporty styling that sets it apart from more sedate alternatives like the Volkswagen T-Cross.
Inside, the Puma received major updates with a huge 12.0-inch touchscreen dominating the dashboard. While tech-savvy buyers will appreciate the big screen, it replaces nearly all physical buttons, making it tricky to use while driving. Interior quality is a letdown since the update, though – the cabin materials feel noticeably cheaper compared to the Peugeot 2008.
Practicality in the Puma is mixed. Front occupants get comfortable seats and decent storage, but rear passengers might struggle, particularly with three adults or taller people. Its standout feature is practicality: the spacious 456-litre boot includes a clever 80-litre 'Megabox' compartment beneath the floor, ideal for putting muddy boots after a walk because you can hose them down and use the plug to drain the water away.
Driving is where the Puma shines brightest. Quick steering and punchy engines – especially the 155hp mild hybrid – make it genuinely enjoyable on twisty roads, although it can feel a bit stiff over bumps, particularly in sportier trims. Motorway refinement is adequate but not outstanding.
What's good
What’s not so good
Best for: bargain hunters
The Dacia Sandero offers exceptional value, making it an attractive budget alternative to pricier alternatives like the Volkswagen Polo. Although it's still understated compared to flashier models, it no longer looks like the bargain basement car of old thanks to a smart design up front.
Inside, the cabin is surprisingly appealing given its budget status. While materials are predominantly hard plastics, clever black and white fabric trims brighten things up. Practicality is good, too, with comfortable seating, generous storage, and clear visibility. Rear passengers enjoy impressive head and legroom, though three adults might feel squeezed. Boot space is decent at 328 litres, though this isn’t quite as big as the Volkswagen Polo’s boot.
Driving the Sandero around town is easy thanks to light steering and comfortable suspension, although it isn't particularly exciting on twistier roads. It handles motorway journeys comfortably, despite some engine noise when accelerating. Both engine choices – a 90hp petrol or a 100hp petrol/LPG bi-fuel version – are economical, offering around 53mpg.
Expression models provide desirable features like an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with smartphone integration, parking sensors, cruise control, and keyless entry, justifying the modest price premium.
Safety ratings aren't stellar due to limited driver-assistance tech, but reliability is strong and owners love them – the Dacia Duster was voted the best car to own in the 2024 Driver Power awards.
The Dacia Sandero offers exceptional value, making it an attractive budget alternative to pricier alternatives like the Volkswagen Polo. Although it's still understated compared to flashier models, it no longer looks like the bargain basement car of old thanks to a smart design up front.
Inside, the cabin is surprisingly appealing given its budget status. While materials are predominantly hard plastics, clever black and white fabric trims brighten things up. Practicality is good, too, with comfortable seating, generous storage, and clear visibility. Rear passengers enjoy impressive head and legroom, though three adults might feel squeezed. Boot space is decent at 328 litres, though this isn’t quite as big as the Volkswagen Polo’s boot.
Driving the Sandero around town is easy thanks to light steering and comfortable suspension, although it isn't particularly exciting on twistier roads. It handles motorway journeys comfortably, despite some engine noise when accelerating. Both engine choices – a 90hp petrol or a 100hp petrol/LPG bi-fuel version – are economical, offering around 53mpg.
Expression models provide desirable features like an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with smartphone integration, parking sensors, cruise control, and keyless entry, justifying the modest price premium.
Safety ratings aren't stellar due to limited driver-assistance tech, but reliability is strong and owners love them – the Dacia Duster was voted the best car to own in the 2024 Driver Power awards.
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How to choose the right small car for you
Petrol, hybrid or electric?
These days you have quite a lot of choice when it comes to what fuels your small car. You could go for the traditional small petrol engine, usually with a manual gearbox, which is likely to be the cheapest to buy. However, if you can pay a bit extra, and do most of your driving in town where you can maximise use of the battery and electric motors, then hybrids could offer really low running costs. Electric cars tend to be a bit more expensive to buy, but if you can charge at home they’re incredibly cheap to run.
Size and space
By their very nature small cars don’t tend to be particularly practical, so the first thing to consider is whether a small car actually suits your needs. Most prioritise either boot space or rear seat space, so you can pick one or the other based on your needs.
Budget
The great thing about small cars is that they tend to be among the cheapest new cars you can buy. Really budget-friendly brands such as Dacia are a great choice if you’re focused on keeping costs low, but none of the cars in this list should break the bank. You could also consider browsing the latest leasing deals to see what’s on offer – you might find you can afford something a bit bigger.
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- Used Jaguar E-PACE
- Used Jaguar F-PACE
- Used Jaguar I-PACE
- Used Kia Ceed
- Used Kia Niro
- Used Kia Picanto
- Used Kia XCeed
- Used Land Rover Defender 110
- Used Mazda CX-5
- Used Mercedes-Benz A-Class
- Used Mercedes-Benz CLA
- Used Mercedes-Benz GLA
- Used MG MG4 EV
- Used MG ZS
- Used Peugeot 208
- Used Peugeot 3008
- Used Polestar 2
- Used Renault Clio
- Used SEAT Ateca
- Used SEAT Ibiza
- Used SEAT Leon
- Used Skoda Kodiaq
- Used Toyota Aygo X
- Used Toyota Yaris Cross
- Used Vauxhall Corsa
- Used Vauxhall Grandland X
- Used Vauxhall Mokka
- Used Volkswagen T-Cross
- Used Volkswagen Tiguan