DS 3 - best small cars

Our pick: DS 3 1.2 PureTech 110 S&S ElegancePrice: £16,395

The DS 3 was Citroen’s first attempt at separating its upmarket sub-brand from the more mainstream models. In 2015, it dropped the Citroen tag altogether to create further differentiation – though its roots are still evident, with familiar styling and the signature double chevron grille.

Positioned as a stylish, youthful and more luxurious alternative to the Citroen C3 supermini, the DS 3 is aimed directly at the MINI Cooper, Audi A1 and Alfa Romeo MiTo. There’s no denying it’s more desirable than its humble sibling, and with various personalisation options, it’s been altogether more successful with younger buyers.