What’s the best supermini?

[Dominic Hanley]

I’m in need of some practical advice as I’m getting swept up in colour palettes and upgrades! I want a new car that’s reliable and has low running and maintenance costs, but that also looks good. No ugly wheels! I don’t drive lots of miles - it’s main purpose will be for commuting. What would people recommend?

[CX53]

Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo

[ZX10R NIN]

Budget? Auto/Manual? 3/5 Doors?

[Willy Nilly]

CX53 said:

Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo

My parents have had Skodas for getting on for 40 years. There last one was a Monte Carlo and the ride was unacceptable, their current Fabia has sensible tyres on it.

The correct answer to the OP is Jazz

[steve-5snwi]

Fiesta 1.0 ecoboost

[exelero]

JCW Mini

[AmitG]

Honda Jazz or Toyota Yaris Hybrid.

[caelite]

New Twingo looks like a fantastic bet for a city car.

MX5 is supermini sized...

[ambuletz]

if you're buying new pretty much all cars these days are reliable with japanese (honda, mazda, toyota, suzuki) being the most reliable ones. Buy whatever you like the look of as your criteria has alot that is rather subjective.

[ZX10R NIN]

OP do you have anymore criteria?

[Dominic Hanley]

ZX10R NIN said:

Budget? Auto/Manual? 3/5 Doors?

Ah yes, good question! I'm looking up to £15k and have always driven manual. It's usually just me on the commute but I prefer a 5-door if possible. Cheers.

[Dominic Hanley]

ambuletz said:

if you're buying new pretty much all cars these days are reliable with japanese (honda, mazda, toyota, suzuki) being the most reliable ones. Buy whatever you like the look of as your criteria has alot that is rather subjective.

Yes, looking to buy new. Been told before that Japanese is the reliable way to go! Is there a preferred make for you? You're definitely right about looks being subjective! I'm leaning toward sleek/sporty. Any advice greatly appreciated.

[Dominic Hanley]

ZX10R NIN said:

OP do you have anymore criteria?

I'd like something sporty/nippy for city driving. Would prefer 5-doors, good tech - especially music! It's mainly for commuting so something I can enjoy getting around in. I'm open to hearing everyone's preferences and check lists for a car in this class. Ta!

[MorganP104]

With sensible hat on = Honda Jazz

With Stig racing boots on = Ford Fiesta

All depends on what floats your boat.

ETA: Another sensible choice = Toyota Yaris Hybrid

[ambuletz]

Dominic Hanley said:

ambuletz said:

if you're buying new pretty much all cars these days are reliable with japanese (honda, mazda, toyota, suzuki) being the most reliable ones. Buy whatever you like the look of as your criteria has alot that is rather subjective.

Yes, looking to buy new. Been told before that Japanese is the reliable way to go! Is there a preferred make for you? You're definitely right about looks being subjective! I'm leaning toward sleek/sporty. Any advice greatly appreciated.

'sleek/sporty' is going to be subjective. just go through all the manufacturers and see what you like the look of, paying attention to trim levels as the higher up or 'sport' trim levels will make it look 'sporty'. as for features then check out channels such as carbuyer/carwow for reviews on cars.

but as for cars that would be the most fun to drive then you'd be looking at the fiesta, mazda 2, MINI, seat ibiza, pug 208. that's off the top of my head.

[timbo999]

Just bought my missus a Clio and it's lovely to drive with a good balance between 'sporty' and comfortable. Actually 5 door but looks like a 3 door, loads of tech in the higher specs and the 120 DCE is a great engine with a 6 speed manual box - smooth and silent! You can get good nearly new/ex dem/pre reg deals as well.

Also some lovely colours, ours is Iron Blue but the metallic red is nice too.

[matsoc]

I own a VW Up! TSI and I love it. It is way more fun to drive most of the time than the 530xd which is my daily driver.

[w00tman]

If you can live being 3 door, Abarth 500?

[Biggles delivers the goods]

I have a 595 Abarth Turismo for commuting in London. It does only have the 3 doors but it does feel like you're driving a go kart. it makes a fantastic noise.

[Pugmitch]

I'm prejudiced but any of the VAG group, VW Up, Seat Mi, Skoda Citigo....all are an absolute hoot. All the same but terrific economy, 5 doors and nippy, so if you're not a badge snob go for the Citigo. SWMBO has one and I try to use it instead of my Golf! Buy one you won't be disappointed.