Hyundai Getz 1.5 CRDi GSi

On the move, it's hard to believe you're not driving the more powerful model. With 215Nm of torque, response is strong and 0-60mph takes 12 seconds (only a second down on the 109bhp car). Economy is even better, at 63mpg. In fact, when it comes to the driving experience, only the roly poly handling deserves any real criticism - although the soft set-up does mean it's comfortable. It's spacious, too; tall adults can sit in the back, while access is easy thanks to wide-opening doors.

Apart from the room, however, the Hyundai's cabin doesn't offer much else. Plastic quality is poor, and although air-con is standard, remote central locking isn't. Still, the £9,145 price tag means the Getz is at least £1,500 cheaper than the equivalent Ford Fiesta - which makes it one of the best-value budget diesel superminis on the market. With few drawbacks over the more powerful oil-burner, the 87bhp model is the pick of the range.