Must have extras - small cars

The essential kit for small cars

City cars and superminis are popular with young and inexperienced drivers thanks to their low prices and running costs; but these models are the least likely to get electronic stability control as standard. And if you’ve only just passed your test, this safety device is a must. The electronic kit won’t be cheap (it costs £315 on Fiat’s new Panda), but it could prevent an accident if you ever have to change lanes at high speed.

Mobile phone addicts should also specify Bluetooth. It lets you make hands-free calls – and integrated systems are easier to use, with better sound quality, than aftermarket plug-in kits.

Small car buyers should also look out for useful extras like height adjustable driver’s seats, split rear seats and extra rear seatbelts. They’re usually affordable and will make your car more user-friendly and easier to sell.

Don’t spend on… Heated steering wheels: costly luxury that will rarely be used. Parking sensors: not necessary on tiny city cars. Integrated sat-nav: plug-in systems are cheaper.

Our pick: Skoda Citigo Elegance (From £9,470)We love the Citigo, and the pick of the range is the Elegance model. It has all the basics, including electronic stability control, multiple airbags and an auxiliary input for connecting digital music players. Best of all, you get a brilliant dash-top touchscreen infotainment system with sat-nav and Bluetooth as standard.

Most Popular

New Renault 5: price, specs, launch and on sale dates
Renault 5 EV concept at 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed
News

New Renault 5: price, specs, launch and on sale dates

Renault’s reborn Renault 5 will start from €25,000 in Europe, suggesting a circa-£30k price in the UK. It's due on sale in the summer of 2024. Here's …
1 Dec 2023
New BMW X3 replacement to grow in size and feature a minimalist dash
BMW Neue Klasse SUV exclusive image - front
News

New BMW X3 replacement to grow in size and feature a minimalist dash

BMW’s first Neue Klasse electric SUV could carry the iX3 nameplate and our exclusive images preview how it might look
30 Nov 2023
New 2024 Dacia Duster: third generation of Europe’s best-selling SUV revealed
Dacia Duster - front
News

New 2024 Dacia Duster: third generation of Europe’s best-selling SUV revealed

Dacia has taken the wraps off the latest Duster, which arrives with a new look and fresh technology
29 Nov 2023