Best commuter cars
Take a look at the best commuter cars to make your daily drives a breeze
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Statistics from the UK Government show that the most common way to get to work in 2023 was via car.
This means that you’re sitting behind the wheel for a good part of your day, especially if you've got a school run as well.
For a commuter car, you'll likely want something smart, and driving a car that’s smooth and relaxing.
With that in mind, here are 10 of the best commuter cars you should consider buying:
Ford Fiesta
Tesla Model 3
Hyundai IONIQ
Honda Civic
Kia Sportage
Renault Zoe
Audi A6
Toyota C-HR
BMW 3 Series
Nissan Leaf
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Ford Fiesta
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A used Ford Fiesta is one of the most popular cars to own in the UK because of its small proportions and excellent build quality.
It’s ideal for everyday use and for longer motorway journeys, as well as dropping the kids off at school or doing the weekly shop – it’s a great all-round hatchback.
Power comes from a small, turbocharged petrol engine that is very economical and packs a punch when you need to overtake. It's comfortable for daily driving and easy to upkeep.
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Tesla Model 3
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Much like the Fiesta among hatchbacks, the Tesla Model 3 is at the top of its game in the world of electric cars.
It’s a family car that offers practicality, comfort, and absolute silence – which is sometimes just what you want on your way to or from the office.
There are a handful of model variants on offer, from the entry-level rear-wheel drive variant to the top-spec dual motor all-wheel drive version.
Sam Sheehan, motoring expert, said: "One feature that many find useful is the auto-pilot setting.
"Although it takes a little getting used to, it can take a great deal of the strain out of motorway and dual carriageway driving while leaving you in ultimate control of the car."
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Hyundai IONIQ
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When it first came out in 2016, the Hyundai IONIQ signified a new breed of self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars which have grown and developed into the impressive electric cars we see today.
In fact, you can now get the Ioniq as an all-electric hatchback – if you like a smooth, quiet commute, then this is the one to go for.
The smaller battery options can get up to 273 miles on a single charge, while the biggest model can go for up to 354 miles.
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Honda Civic
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Out of all the cars on this list, the Honda Civic has probably changed the most in terms of its design.
It's always looked sporty, but the modern ones are especially good-looking. But what you probably care more about is what it’s like inside – because that’s where you’ll be spending most of your time.
Inside, you’ll be greeted by a push interior with lots of tech, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’ll make your commute much, much more enjoyable.
Sam said: "Compared to others in its class, the Civic has a noticeably lower and slightly more sporty-feeling driving position.
"So even if you’ve not got a huge engine in front of you, the drive can feel a tad more exciting than perhaps it might in similarly spec’d rivals."
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Kia Sportage
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If you have a family or need more space to carry luggage or work gear, then a used Kia Sportage is a great option for you.
The durable build and great engine options make the Sportage a great all-rounder and a firm favourite for working professionals and families alike.
Thanks to its high seating position, you can see everything around you, so your commute is easier and more relaxing.
Ben Welham, our motoring journlaist, said: "It’s comfortable over long distances, handles confidently, and offers excellent space for both passengers and luggage."
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Renault Zoe
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Small electric cars have seen a real boom in the past few years, and the Renault Zoe is leading the charge.
With a range of up to 238 miles and a great selection of electric motors, the Zoe is the perfect option for those who commute short distances and want to join the EV revolution.
Plus, silent driving on your daily commute is seriously underrated.
It gets a surprisingly large 338-litre boot as well - great for an electric car of this size.
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Audi A6
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Available as either a saloon or estate, the used Audi A6 is a great commuter or long-distance cruiser because it’s comfortable, packed full of amazing tech, and economical.
If you’re a fan of your tunes, then the A6 is one of the better options out there because it’s available with the upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system, which has punchy bass and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
The boot offers a massive 530 litres of space, which really helps when you’re wanting to fill up your car with luggage, camera equipment, shopping – or anything.
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Toyota C-HR
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Having the option of a hybrid powertrain is something commuters across the country will be grateful for because not only does it make your driving experience more comfortable, but it also makes things cheaper because they are so efficient.
This means that in town you can cruise around in electric mode at low speeds in your Toyota C-HR, and at motorway speeds you can let the petrol engine work alongside the electric motor to drive up your MPG rating.
Inside, you’re greeted by a high-tech cabin with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity – helping to make your journey more faff-free.
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BMW 3 Series
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Like the Audi A6, you can get a used BMW 3 Series as either an estate or saloon, and it’s also grateful for some quality German engineering, which is always welcome.
It’s also got a very large boot, measuring up to 495 litres – so you won’t be short of luggage or dog space.
You can have it with either a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid engine – all of which are very economical and sporty when they need to be.
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Nissan Leaf
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Whether you’re moving up from a smaller electric car or entering the world of EVs for the first time, the Nissan Leaf is a great buy.
Not only is it cheaper than the Tesla Model 3 but it also offers a more tried and tested platform, with it being around since the end of 2010.
Since it’s an EV, the interior is far from spartan, and you can enjoy the benefits of the NissanConnect sat-nav and a great sound system.
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Choosing the best commuter car
Finding the best commuter car is important if you spend a lot of your day behind the wheel.
These comfortable picks will be perfect for daily drives, and there are great deals to be had on used models.
Take a look at our full range of used cars to see other options.
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