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Original poster

Best small automatic car

36 replies

stillthinking22 · 14/09/2023 12:07

Advice needed! Looking for a small second car as a run-around for school pick ups etc. Budget up to 10k (new or second hand), must be an automatic, bonus points if eco / hybrid / electric. Ideally with parking sensors / cameras. We have a BMW X3 and while I like being up high I struggle with the size of it and would prefer something more environmentally friendly. Like the look of Fiat 500, VW Up or Polo but would love some tips. TIA!

OP posts:

exexpat · 14/09/2023 22:10

Fiat 500s look cute but their reliability is crap compared to something like a Yaris, from what I have heard and read, eg https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/fiat/500/reliability

Fiat 500 hatchback - Reliability & safety 2023 | Carbuyer

Fiat 500 owners don’t seem too impressed by the city car’s reliability and its safety rating is below par

https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/fiat/500/reliability

wonkylegs · 15/09/2023 08:12

I had a Toyota Yaris for years and truly loved it; cheap to run and maintain, good use of space for a small car, easy to drive and super easy to park, reliable and quite nippy seeing it had a small engine.
Unfortunately it was too small for my needs so I sold it to my neighbour. Would wholeheartedly recommend looking at one if you are downsizing. They may not be as trendy as some other makes but they are a truly hassle free car to own.

Pushkinini · 15/09/2023 08:26

I have a Suzuki Swift mild hybrid with a 1.0l turbo engine. I love her! She's nippy, the back is pretty spacious, has parking sensors and a reversing camera and CarPlay. I paid just under £10k two years ago for a 4 year old model.

pepino · 15/09/2023 08:29

If you don't want to be so low down, try a fiat panda. I loved mine.
Suzuki swift are great too.

BackT · 15/09/2023 08:33

Nissan Note or new shape Micra. You should be able to get a used one for 10k.
Super easy to drive and reasonably high up.

Scienceadvisory · 15/09/2023 12:11

Toyota yaris hybrid fan here too. I tried to test drive a fiat 500 but didn't even get it out of the lot because it was so uncomfortable.

Starbeeees · 15/09/2023 12:48

I have a Honda jazz hybrid and I’m so pleased with it

bettybadger · 15/09/2023 16:13

Was going to suggest a Seat Leon as it's cheaper than a Golf but basically the same car so you'd be able to get lower mileage/newer car for your money. However, it sounds from your subsequent posts like it might be too big for your needs...

trakehner · 15/09/2023 16:20

My daughter has a Kia Picanto automatic and it is a fabulous little car. Hers is a 2005 reg and is super cheap and cheerful to run and drive. Just passed it's MOT again with no advisories! It has 4 doors, 5 seats and tonnes of head room (DD is 6 foot tall) so it never feels cramped - I marvel at the feat of design that managed to pack all that in to such a tiny car. I love the ease of driving it.

Lucia574 · 15/09/2023 16:27

Renault Zoe all electric is really fantastic, but not sure of second hand price. Has a much better mileage range than the electric Mini.

Original poster

stillthinking22 · 17/09/2023 09:49

Thanks again everyone!! These are such useful tips

OP posts:

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