4. Hyundai i10 - Best city cars
Running a city car no longer means putting up with an unrefined buzz box – and the Hyundai i10 proves it.
Running a city car no longer means putting up with an unrefined buzz box – and the Hyundai i10 proves it. With its current generation i10 city car the Korean brand dramatically boosted refinement and space inside the five-door body, bucking the trend for personalisation options and instead offering a grown-up, spacious and good value compact hatch.
Unlike the Skoda Citigo, it’s only available in five-door form, showing its focus on usability. But with solid build quality and some decent materials inside, it feels more upmarket than ever.
It’s a shame there’s not more advanced equipment on offer, but at least the engine technology under the bonnet gives good results. There’s a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder – both petrols. The small engine offers better efficiency and enough performance for day-to-day driving, while it’s also nicely refined for a three-pot.
It’s lower, longer and wider than its predecessor, so the i10 offers almost as much space as a supermini, with practicality and a driving experience to make you feel like you’re in a larger, more expensive car. The ride is refined and the i10 handles well, even if it isn’t the sharpest driving car in its class.
There’s a good range of trim levels to choose from, including the entry-level S and top-spec Premium SE models. However, it’s the mid-range SE version that offers the best balance of equipment and price, with air conditioning, electric windows, cruise control and USB connectivity standard.
Best city cars
- 1. VW up!
- 2. Skoda Citigo
- 3. Kia Picanto
- 4. Hyundai i10
- 5. Vauxhall Viva
- 6. Toyota Aygo
- 7. SEAT Mii
- 8. Renault Twingo
- 9. Citroen C1/Peugeot 108
- 10. Suzuki Celerio
