Best used small cars 2024
Sometimes you just need a small car, and there are plenty of options on the used market for something petite, practical, and great on the roads
There will always be a need for small cars on the roads, and most manufacturers have their own choice offering for something compact and easy to drive.
Whether you’re looking for a premium model with luxury touches or a budget-friendly option that’s efficient to run, there’s plenty of choice for a second-hand small car that will suit your needs.
Take a look at our top picks for a small used car.
Ford Fiesta
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While the Ford Fiesta has always been a top choice for a small car and is one of the bestselling cars in the UK, you’ll soon only be able to buy a used model.
In June 2023, Ford discontinued the Fiesta, and you wouldn’t be alone if you shed a tear.
This used Ford is a true all-rounder for something efficient, easy on the eye and enjoyable to drive.
Its agile handling and compact design make it a dream for roaming around urban areas, while fuel economy figures of up to 65.7mpg means running costs are low.
Plus, the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system is available in Titanium and Zetec trims and adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
SEAT Mii
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The SEAT Mii is essentially a Volkswagen up! and has the same reliable and solid engineering but comes in at a lower price point.
You still get the engineering prowess that the VW badge offers but can save money and still get a quirky little car.
The SEAT Mii is surprisingly spacious inside, with a 251-litre boot that can extend to 959 litres if you drop the rear seats.
The Skoda Citigo is the third sibling of the Mii and the up! and is worth considering if you want something cheaper.
On the road, the Mii feels smooth and comfortable. It’s economical to run as well, offering up to 62.8mpg from official stats, which makes it a brilliant daily runner.
cinch content writer Tia North says: “I needed something small and efficient for a daily driver and the Mii has been spot-on.
"It’s so easy to drive and ideal for squeezing into inner-city car parks."
Renault Zoe
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For an electric option, the Renault Zoe is a top pick for a small car.
It’s also a great example of how you don’t have to get behind the wheel of the Teslas of the world to enjoy electric power, and great options are available at lower price points.
On a full charge, you can expect to reach up to 245 miles according to WLTP stats.
This is ideal for the school run or daily commute, and it can be recharged in just over nine hours using a 7kW wall box charger.
There’s also a 338-litre boot at the rear that can extend to 1,225 litres, so it’s ideal for use as a proper loader when in a pinch.
It’s worth noting that carrying large loads can decrease mile range in electric cars, so it might be worth offloading if you’re on a long trip.
Volkswagen Polo
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A staple on any small cars list and a true icon on UK roads, a used Volkswagen Polo is ideal for a peppy little car with lots of personality.
The timeless styling of the Polo means that even used models look fresh and modern, but some of the interior seat styling gives a nod to the age of the car, with a retro finish.
Signature plaid seats are coveted and offer something a bit different.
When it comes to space, the Polo is comfortable and well laid-out. At the rear, boot sizes go up to 351 litres, but this will vary depending on the model.
SEAT Ibiza
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Another great option from SEAT, the Ibiza is a slightly larger choice but is still compact and easy to manoeuvre.
It also rivals models like the VW Polo and Skoda Fabia, and is a great mid-level option between the two.
There are three engines to choose from in the Ibiza lineup that are economical and smooth to drive, or you can opt for an Ibiza FR if you want something sporty. In standard Ibiza models, you can expect up to 54.3mpg.
The Ibiza also offers a lower and loungier driving position when compared to the upright positioning of models like the Mii.
There’s plenty of tech in the cabin as well, including an 8.25-inch infotainment touchscreen in entry-level models and 9.2-inch screens in the higher trims.
Audi A1
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The Audi A1 is probably one of the most-coveted small cars there is, offering a flashy option for a small car that’s a great first step into the world of premium models.
Used Audi A1 models also hold their value well when compared to other small cars, and this can mean they’re on the pricier side, but it does mean you’ll likely get back much of what you paid when it’s time to sell.
The styling is synonymous with the Audi badge and feels luxurious, with a well laid-out interior that features a 10.1-inch screen if you opt for a model with the Technology pack.
Hyundai i10
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A sleek city car that’s stylish and easy to build on, the Hyundai i10 is a great pick for a small model that’s perfect for cruising around town.
While features in the entry-level models are kept fairly simple, choosing a used Hyundai i10 means you can get flashier trims at a cheaper price.
There are seven trims to choose from, including the top-spec N Line models that add a sportier design and updated grille.
On the road, the i10 is efficient and laidback. You can expect up to 56.4mpg and 120g/km of CO2 emissions, and it’s comfortable on the motorway as well, with a comfortable driving position and a smooth drive overall.
Mini Hatch
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One of the most instantly recognisable cars on UK roads, the Mini Hatch is an obvious choice for an iconic small car that puts style at the top of its to-do list.
While the five-seater cabin is comfortable and spacious, the boot size is slightly smaller than competitors at 211 litres (731 litres if you fold the rear seats).
The five-door model offers a 278-litre boot, so might be the one to pick if you want extra room to load.
The interior stands out on Mini models, featuring circular styling that even extends to the infotainment screen.
Aircraft-style toggle switches are a fun and quirky touch that gives the Mini an aesthetic edge over its competition.
Vauxhall Corsa
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If you were once a 17-year-old boy, then it’s likely a Vauxhall Corsa once topped your dream car list.
If you’re somebody after a small car that’s peppy and available in plenty of trims, the Vauxhall Corsa could still be your dream car.
The Corsa VXR is a great option if you want a small car that’s actually a hot hatch, while the entry-level SE Edition makes an ideal first car.
There are plenty of other trim levels in between, like the Ultimate Edition that offers 17-inch alloys and a 10-inch infotainment screen.
The Corsa also received a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2019 and has a reliable reputation overall.
Toyota Yaris
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If you’re not quite ready for an electric car but are curious about cutting back on fuel, the Toyota Yaris is a perfect small hybrid that will help you take the first steps.
In fact, Toyota offers WLTP fuel economy figures for the Yaris that range between 57.6 to 68.8mpg – it’s a seriously economical drive.
Despite its smaller stature, the Yaris also offers a 286-litre boot that will be enough for most motorists cruising around the city.
You can increase this to 786 litres by folding down the rear seats, so it can be a large load-mover if needed.