Best Used Supermini
Supermini buyers are spoilt for choice, with a number of good-looking cheap cars that are fun to drive, we pick our favourites.
Winner: Renault Clio
(2005 to date) Prices: £4,000-£12,000
It’s a third year at the top for the Renault Clio! The hatch has been a favourite in this class with our judges since 2008 thanks to its winning blend of handsome looks and great handling. An excellent safety score and a practical interior add to the appeal.
Early models are now very affordable, and they can only get cheaper, as the Clio was facelifted last year. This will force down the price of outgoing cars. What’s more, the Renault was so popular new that second-hand supply is plentiful. Car supermarkets usually offer fantastic deals on Clios, but don’t discount private sellers or dealerships.
The engine line-up is vast, but the 86bhp 1.5-litre dCi diesel is a great all-purpose choice. It’s immensely cheap to run – combining 64.2mpg fuel economy with CO2 emissions of 118g/km – but it’s punchy enough to provide brisk pace. Reliability hasn’t always been a strong point for the company, but the Clio finished in a mid-ranking 54th place in our Driver Power 2010 reliability survey – which is impressive considering that early examples are now five years old.
It was the second highest-placed Renault after the new Mégane, which finished fifth in our poll, so the manufacturer has clearly improved its build quality. But it’s worth checking with your local dealer to find out if any potential buy was subject to a recall for failed brake lights or issues with the gearbox.
There is a huge array of trim levels, which would cause confusion even if Renault hadn’t tweaked them throughout the Clio’s lifecycle. Dynamique models are a good bet, as they come fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels, electric heated door mirrors and sports trim, as well as a more luxurious, soft-touch dashboard.
Nearly New: Ford Fiesta
(2009 to date) Prices: £8,000-£14,000
The Fiesta is a future used car champ. A great driving experience, solid cabin and fine engines make Britain’s best-selling car a class leader new, but it’s still too young and expensive to beat the Clio here. Main dealers are the places to buy, with used prices tempting compared to new costs
Value Choice: Mazda 2
(2007 to date) £6,500-£12,000
Stylish looks and a driving experience to match make this hidden gem a top used buy. Running costs are low whatever engine you choose – from the 1.3-litre petrols to the rarer, more economical, 1.6-litre diesel. The 2’s biggest weakness is its compact boot and cabin.
