Chevy Spark vs rivals

This sector is never easy. With so much of the decision being driven by cost, it really is a case of the head ruling the heart.

However, that makes picking a winner in this test simple. The Hyundai is hugely talented, with broad appeal. It’s also cheap to buy and run, and has a brilliant five-year warranty. But deciding the order of the rest is tougher.

Runner-up spot goes to the excellent Aygo. In £9,841 Platinum trim, it’s pricey – we’d recommend the cheaper and better-equipped Blue model. Take into account the great residuals, low running costs, strong build and fun driving experience, though, and it’s hard to argue against the Toyota.

There are no complaints about the Alto’s £8,940 price. It feels built to a budget, but is well equipped and can be run on a shoestring.

That means the new Chevrolet Spark brings up the rear. It has lots of kit, plenty of space and a powerful engine – on paper, it’s a winning formula. In reality, the engine is coarse, the design fussy and its high specification comes at too much of a cost. In the talented city car class, it’s off the pace.

Overall results
1st - Hyundai i10
Multi-talented i10 is hard to beat. Attractive packaging, a willing engine, capable handling, high specification and excellent value for money set it apart here.

2nd - Toyota Aygo
While it isn’t the cheapest here, the Toyota is desirable for buyers on a budget. Great residuals and low running costs are highlights, as are fun driving dynamics.

3rd - Suzuki Alto
It isn’t the most polished car,
but the Suzuki is cheap to buy and well equipped. The Alto is an honest, no-frills model that gets the job done with minimal fuss.

4th - Chevrolet Spark
In this company, the Spark lacks the polish to be competitive. It provides plenty of space and decent performance – but just doesn’t make sense at this price.