
Best small cars
By Motor Match • 29/07/2025
While more buyers might be choosing crossover these days, there are still plenty that prefer a smaller car.
Small Cars
These vehicles are often more affordable to buy and also cheaper to run and insure.
Though the choice on offer might have declined slightly in recent years, especially with the recent demise of the Ford Fiesta. But there are still plenty of new models available, and there’s an increasing choice of hybrid and electric models on offer. Let’s take a look at the best small cars on offer today.
Volkswagen Polo
If you want a small car that’s able to do the job of a much larger model, it’s hard to beat the Volkswagen Polo. It’s been a key part of this German firm’s line-up for a long time, and remains an impressive choice, especially when it comes to its comfort and refinement levels.
The Polo is available primarily with small, efficient petrol engines, though a sportier GTI model is also available if you want more in the way of performance.
Average MPG: 43.5 to 55.4
Boot Size: 351 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Spacious and well-built interior
- Smooth ride
- Fuel-efficient engine options

Honda Jazz
Honda’s Jazz is an ideal small car if you want something with plenty of space, as it boasts a big boot and a huge amount of rear seat space, aided further by its clever flip-up ‘Magic Seats’.
The Jazz now exclusively comes with a hybrid powertrain, which delivers some impressive fuel consumption figures if this is a priority.
Average MPG: 62.8mpg
Boot Size: 304 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Spacious
- High driving position
- Fuel Efficiency

Seat Ibiza
If you want a stylish small car, there are few more eye-catching small cars than the Seat Ibiza. Based on the Polo, it feels more engaging to drive and costs slightly less to buy as well.
The Ibiza has plenty more to offer as well, not least a surprisingly practical interior that makes it ideal for use as a small family car. Its 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines also deliver a great balance of performance and efficiency
Average MPG: 42.2 to 61.4
Boot Space: 355 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Practical and Fun
- Low Running Costs

Ford Fiesta
Though Ford might have recently discontinued its Fiesta as it switches its focus more towards EVs, don’t forget that there will – for a long time – be a plentiful supply on the used market.
The Fiesta still has so much to offer as well, as it’s one of the most fun small cars on the market, especially in the case of the ST hot hatch. It’s well-equipped and very practical too.
Average MPG: 40.4 and 57.6
Boot Space: 292 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Compact Yet Spacious Design
- Advanced Technology
- Affordability and Low Running Costs
Mini Electric
If you’re looking for a small EV, they don’t get much better than the Mini Electric. This pint-sized EV might only have a small electric range of around a claimed 145 miles, but if you drive mainly around town or only do small trips.
The Mini Electric remains every bit as good as the petrol Hatch on which it’s based, being great fun to drive, characterful in the styling department and featuring a high-quality interior.
Average Range: 145 miles - 250 miles
Boot Space: 210 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Advanced Technology
- Efficiency

Audi A1
If you think a small car can’t be premium, you should take a look at the Audi A1. Though it might sit on the more expensive end of the spectrum, it feels worthy of its cost when it comes to its high-quality interior.
It gets a lot of the same technology as Audi’s far more upmarket models, including the digital Virtual Cockpit, as well as a large touchscreen. Despite its small size, the A1 still gets a decent amount of interior space.
Average MPG: 48.4
Boot Size: 335 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Variety of trims available
- Premium Feel
- Advanced Technology

Peugeot 208
Peugeot’s 208 is now Europe’s most popular car and really is a superb choice when it comes to small cars. There’s a choice of a petrol 208 or the electric e-208, which will soon boast an electric range of up to 250 miles.
The 208 also has a stunning interior that feels especially upmarket, while its compact size means it’s a great choice for those that need something small to drive and park.
Average MPG: 44.3 and 66.3
Boot Size: 311 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Stylish and Modern Design
- Affordable Maintenance
- Good Technology

Mercedes A-Class
The Mercedes‑Benz A‑Class redefines what a premium small car can be, offering a compelling blend of luxury, safety, and youthful energy. With its sleek styling, high‑end materials, and sophisticated infotainment system, the A‑Class is ideal for those seeking a compact car with the premium flair and tech of a Mercedes, without the size or price of larger models.
The exterior sports sharp lines, dynamic proportions, and signature Mercedes grille paired with optional AMG styling. Inside, ambient lighting, quality soft‑touch surfaces, and a widescreen MBUX infotainment interface create a near‑executive feel.
Average MPG: 30.7 to 47.9
Boot Space: 370 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Stylish and Modern Design
- Advanced Infotainment System
- Safety Features

Skoda Fabia
The Škoda Fabia stands out as one of the most practical and value‑packed superminis in the UK and broader European market. Known for its spacious cabin, clever features, and sensible pricing, it appeals to budget‑conscious drivers who still want comfort and modern connectivity.
While styling is understated, the Skoda Fabia’s clever packaging means superb rear legroom and a large boot that's exceptional for its class. Light controls and soft ride tuning make it comfortable around town, though it remains stable on motorways. Handling is predictable rather than sporty.
Average MPG: 47 to 55
Boot Space: 380 Litres
Key Highlights:
- Spacious and practical interior
- Impressive boot space
- Variety of driver assistance systems

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