Ford Puma replacement

[IanOE]

I need to replace my modified Ford Puma because I have recently moved home and have gone from secure underground parking to parking on the street and my insurer won't insure the car at my new postcode, so I need to look for a non modified car.

Also, due to the coilover suspension on the Puma it is difficult over the local potholed roads and ridiculously large speed bumps, so I would like something that rides much smoother, although I also would like a car that handles well.

I don't need anything large because it's just me and my wife and the smaller the car is the easier it will be to park on the street

I have done track days and autosolos in the Puma and it would be good if I could do these in my replacement car, but that is a bonus, not essential.

As I live within the expanded 2021 London ULEZ zone I'd rather get a car now that is compliant for 2021.

London ULEZ compliant.
Cheapish insurance.
Smallish.
Not slow.
Good handling.
Good ride.
Budget up to £2,500 (but slightly flexible if there is a great option slightly more expensive).

If I can't find a suitable car then I will look to join a local car rental car club, so please help me to avoid that.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[MOBB]

My first thought was a Clio 172/182 - I've had a 182 and a couple of Pumas before, and the 182 is like a faster sharper Puma IMO.

Not sure if the ride will be good enough as they are firm, but great cars at that sort of money.

[IanOE]

MOBB said:

My first thought was a Clio 172/182 - I've had a 182 and a couple of Pumas before, and the 182 is like a faster sharper Puma IMO.

Not sure if the ride will be good enough as they are firm, but great cars at that sort of money.

Thanks for the suggestion, I was also looking at Clio 172/182s when I got the Puma.

I've checked the insurance and it's quite expensive for a cheap car.

Also I think that you're right about the ride, I'd need something softer although I do appreciate that there is usually a compromise on the handling factor.

[MOBB]

I reckon a Suzuki Swift Sport might be the ticket then - similar to the Puma in a lot of ways

[RSTurboPaul]

I'm not sure anything new with even a smidge of sportiness will have a good ride, in that it will all be firmly sprung.

You could consider a Twingo 133 (with Cup pack if you're a glutton for punishment, lol).