Top 12 Best Cheap Small Used Cars

Small cars are versatile and great for city driving, family use, and fun rides. Besides, choosing a budget-friendly car doesn’t mean compromising on quality. In fact, it comes with several benefits, like low maintenance expenses, low insurance, and less environmental impact.

But with so many options of small hatchbacks and saloons in the used market, picking the right one can be tricky. Don’t worry, though! New drivers, those with more experience, and simply anyone looking for an economical and efficient ride will find something perfect for them.

And remember, Carplus will make buying the small car of your dreams easy, with favourable terms and a hassle-free experience.

1. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta offers great value, fun-to-drive nature, and efficient performance. The engine range offers a 1.1-litre petrol with 69hp or 84hp, and a turbocharged 1.0-litre Ecoboost with 99hp, 123hp, or 138hp. There is also a 1.5-litre diesel with 84hp or 118hp. Newer Fiesta models also have practical mild-hybrid technology in the 1.0 Ecoboost 125/155 variants.

One of Fiesta’s greatest features is how it blends the fun you get from small cars with a comfortable ride of a larger vehicle. Entry-level models have adjustable driver’s seats and steering wheels, so drivers will easily find the right spot.

The backseat space isn’t huge, but it’s sufficient for shorter journeys. The boot is practical for everyday use. With the rear seats folded down, you get a flat floor, which makes it easier to use the Fiesta’s 1,093-litre capacity.

2. Honda Jazz

The Honda Jazz is the small car to beat when it comes to passenger space, thanks to its unique and flexible rear seats. Please note that there are only two engine options — a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol and a 1.5-litre VTEC four-cylinder. For either one, the Jazz provides smooth driving with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox.

With a comfort-focused suspension, the Jazz handles road imperfections well. The quirky design has been streamlined in recent years, so it now features sleek curves and sharp lines. A large front window provides clear visibility over the front corners, while broad wing mirrors and large side windows bring better visibility all around.

The boot size isn’t the largest by any means. However, the Jazz’s Magic Seats and low load lip create the most practical choice among small hatchbacks. The reliability is remarkable despite the car’s cheap price tag.

3. Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa is smart, well-equipped, and offers decent value, even if it’s not the most practical or fun used car. In later models, you’ll find a choice of three conventional engines: two petrols and one diesel, along with a fully electric Corsa-e. The turbocharged 99hp petrol version provides enough flexibility for motorway driving and accelerates briskly. The 101hp diesel offers strong performance from low revs. The Corsa-e, on the other hand, is quick and quiet; plus, it has impressive acceleration.

Drivers with long legs will find that the front seats don’t offer enough legroom as they can’t slide far back. However, rear occupants benefit from one of the most spacious back seats in its class. In terms of reliability, the Corsa fares fairly well in contrast to many small cars. Repairs and servicing from Vauxhall aren’t too expensive.

4. Seat Ibiza

The Seat Ibiza is a phenomenal small car that combines tidy handling, a roomy interior, and low running costs. All of that is for a reasonable amount of money.

Initially, the Ibiza offered a choice of three 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engines, a 148hp 1.5-litre petrol, and two 1.6-litre diesels. Over time, the engine lineup was simplified to include only the 1.0 80, 95, and 115 petrols, and the 1.6 TDI 95 diesel. The latter was later dropped.

Visibility is good upfront — minimal obstruction from the windscreen pillars and tall, easy-to-see-out-of side windows. The steering is responsive in both urban and higher-speed driving. Also, body lean is well controlled, especially with the FR trim’s sports suspension.

The Ibiza’s wider design helps ease discomfort in the rear seats. For instance, three adults get plenty of shoulder room.

5. Škoda Fabia

The Škoda Fabia is a great car that is affordable, has a comfortable ride comparable to larger vehicles, and comes fairly light on your pocket.

There are three petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated with 80hp, and turbo-petrol versions with 95hp and 110hp. The 110hp version can reach 0-60 in under 10 seconds and has a top speed of 125mph.

In town, its short wheelbase makes manoeuvring easy. On the motorway, it feels stable and refined with minimal noise, which isn’t characteristic of small cars. Because of its generous width, there’s ample space inside, and the rear seats can accommodate two tall passengers comfortably. However, fitting three adults in the back is a tight squeeze.

The Fabia has a lot of boot space. There’s even enough room for six carry-on suitcases below the parcel shelf.

6. Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo won’t be the most thrilling hatchback you’ll find. But its widespread popularity makes it an excellent choice, especially with a wide selection of used models available.

The engine options start from a non-turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit with varying power outputs. They go up to a turbocharged version with much higher horsepower. Also, the Polo GTI variant has a capable 2.0-litre engine, while diesel options provide efficiency.

In terms of driving experience, the Polo prioritizes safety and comfort over excitement. For a small car, it manages long-distance journeys well, with hardly any wind or road noise noticeable when driving at motorway speeds.

Interior room-wise, the Polo fits most drivers well and offers a decently sized boot. Although, some models lack split-folding rear seats. To compensate, higher trim levels feature a variable-level boot floor.

7. Citroën C3

The Citroën C3 definitely deserves consideration for your shortlist. You can easily spot the C3 among other small cars because of its one-of-a-kind design.

In its current generation, it offers two petrol and one diesel engine options. The more powerful petrol engine is great for city driving. The diesel variant is best for high-mileage journeys and cheap to run, with fuel economy of up to 83mpg. With its soft suspension, the C3 provides a comfortable ride. Besides, the cabin remains relatively quiet on the motorway.

The front seats are spacious and comfortable, which, according to some testers, resembles a big sofa. The downside is that they lack support during cornering. The back seats offer average headroom. The 300-litre boot provides reasonable storage space and is suitable for everyday items like a pushchair or groceries. An adjustable boot floor would improve loading convenience.

8. Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10 is the smallest car on the list, but don’t let its size fool you — it’s big on practicality and overall great fun. The model can seat up to five people very leisurely and has room for some luggage.

The 67hp entry-level model feels a bit underpowered. If that’s an issue, opting for the 1.2-litre or turbocharged 1.0-litre versions provides more punch for your drive. These models handle highway trips with ease and offer a surprisingly quiet ride for a small car. Plus, with advanced safety features, you’ll feel secure on the road.

The i10’s plastics have a textured finish, which makes them feel better than plain trim. The car is well-built to prevent rattling or creaking, and its steering wheel has a thick, sporty feel with leather covering.

9. Kia Rio

The Kia Rio is a fine choice among small cars — nice-looking and well-built. It comes with a range of petrol engine options, including a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder with 99hp or 118hp and a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 83hp. Diesel engines were discontinued after the 2018 model year. The most economical engine is the 100PS 1.0 T-GDI, with 48.7mpg in WLTP testing.

On the road, the Rio handles safely and sensibly. The manual gearbox is smooth, and the steering is light in town but progressively firms up at higher speeds. One potential concern is that road noise is more noticeable on rough roads.

The interior space is good up front, although rear passengers will definitely find it cosy. You can comfortably handle your daily tasks with this family car that’s easy to drive, park, and maintain.

10. Nissan Micra

The Nissan Micra is another sturdy, small car worth a look at. There’s a 71hp 1.0-litre petrol for entry-level models, as well as more powerful but smaller engines — 89hp 0.9-litre turbocharged petrols. For even more power, there’s a turbocharged 1.0-litre engine in 92hp, 99hp, and 115hp variants. A 1.5-litre diesel option was on sale until 2020, but it’s no longer part of the lineup.

Driving the Micra is a breeze because you get light steering, smooth clutch, and responsive brakes.

Inside, the cabin feels solidly built, although some tech features and soft-touch trims come at an additional cost. The front seats are roomy enough, but the rear feels cramped for adult passengers. The 300-litre boot provides decent practicality, slightly larger than those found in the Corsa, Polo, or Fiesta. However, its tall boot lip gets challenging when loading heavy items.

11. Mazda2

The Mazda2 sticks to its classic design, unlike many other small cars that undergo frequent updates every few years. Since its introduction in 2015, the model has been powered by a selection of 1.5-litre engines. The base 75hp engine isn’t that dynamic. Upgrading to the 90hp or 115hp versions of the 1.5-litre petrol engine offers a more lively driving experience.

The handling is nimble, and visibility is excellent for a city car, so navigating urban streets is effortless. The suspension setup makes the Mazda2 feel stable and secure on the motorway.

Inside, you get a comfortable and stylish cabin with soft-touch materials that add a touch of elegance to the dashboard. A limited shoulder room and a raised transmission tunnel will make three adults feel cramped.

12. Renault Zoe

The Renault Zoe is a small car that’s priced well, practical, and can go longer distances between charges compared to many similar models.

Electric cars like the Zoe have a single gear, so you get smooth and instant acceleration when you step on the gas pedal. Powered by a 134hp electric motor, it can go from 0 to 60 in 9.5 seconds. When you’re driving in city traffic, the Zoe shines with its ability to navigate through tight spots. The large windows offer a clear view ahead, and the controls are light.

Despite its small size, it feels roomier than expected, though the space inside is a bit tight. Owners love the Zoe for its low running costs, and insurance for it tends to be on the cheaper side.

Conclusion

Small cars have numerous advantages that make them a popular choice for many drivers. From lower car prices to easier parking, better fuel economy, and fun driving, there are plenty of good reasons to opt for a small car. Plus, with advancements in technology, compact cars are loaded with features that rival larger vehicles.

So, when considering your next car purchase, don’t overlook the benefits of smaller transport. And when you’re ready to buy, be sure to use Carplus for a seamless finance experience.