While there’s no denying how popular SUVs have become, a large number of buyers still prefer a smaller hatchback, often known as a supermini.
These models still regularly top the sales charts in the UK and across the rest of Europe and are famed for their affordable pricing, low running costs and ease of use, though buyers’ expectations of these models have increased dramatically in recent years. The need for more space, creature comforts and safety technology makes it a particularly competitive market.
But what are the best superminis on sale today? Here we look at the best.
Ford Fiesta
While Ford might have recently announced it will stop production of its well-loved Fiesta as the brand puts an increased focus on EVs, these models will be produced until the middle of 2023 – giving you ample time to get behind the wheel of a new example.
Though its days might be numbered, the Fiesta remains a brilliantly competent product, as it’s fantastic to drive, offers plenty of interior space and comes with a good level of standard equipment, A whole range of versions is also available, including rugged-looking Active versions and the ST hot hatch.
Enquire on a new Ford FiestaVolkswagen Polo
If you want one of the most well-rounded small cars on the market, it’s hard to beat the Volkswagen Polo. Refreshed at the end of 2021, it now gets a more angular look and additional standard equipment – all versions now feature LED headlights, a digital dash and adaptive cruise control.
The Polo also offers a very spacious interior considering its relatively compact size, while its refinement and comfort are excellent. If you want a sportier Polo, VW also offers a GTI model, using a 204bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen PoloMini
If you want a fun small car, it’s very hard to beat the Mini Hatch. Rolling off the production line in Oxford, the Mini remains as stylish and customisable as ever, which is a key part of its popularity.
The Mini is also fantastic to drive and has a particularly high-quality interior that feels a cut above other superminis. There’s also a five-door version available, as well as the well-loved three-door Hatch. Sporty Cooper S and John Cooper Works hot hatch models are also on offer, as well as the Electric model bringing a 145-mile range.
Enquire on a new MiniVauxhall Corsa
Vauxhall’s Corsa is now the best-selling supermini, with this latest-generation model only going from strength to strength. Offering a more modern design inside and out, the Corsa has never appeared so fresh and current.
Available with a choice of petrol engines, a Corsa Electric model is also available, offering an excellent range of up to 225 miles and fast charging speeds – hooked up to a 100kW charger, it will take just 30 minutes for the battery to reach 80 per cent capacity.
Enquire on a new Vauxhall CorsaSkoda Fabia
Skoda’s Fabia is another established choice in the supermini segment, and is a very accomplished choice. Based on the VW Polo, the Fabia trades a bit of equipment and a slightly lower-quality interior for a big cost saving, while also offering more interior space – the boot measuring an impressive 380 litres, the same as a Ford Focus from the class above.
The Fabia is also comfortable and easy to drive, while standard equipment includes 15-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 6.5-inch touchscreen and rear parking sensors.
Enquire on a new Skoda FabiaRenault Clio
Renault’s latest Clio is a welcome step up compared to its predecessor, bringing a more modern design and a much higher-quality interior. There’s a lot to like about the Clio, particularly on the equipment front, with 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and a seven-inch touchscreen all coming as standard.
The Clio also offers an impressively deep 392-litre boot, while it’s good to drive as well. Renault recently introduced an E-Tech hybrid model as well, returning up to 64.5mpg, and with CO2 emissions of 96g/km.
Enquire on a new Renault ClioToyota Yaris
On the subject of hybrids, we’ve got the Toyota Yaris, which is only sold with a self-charging hybrid setup. Returning impressive efficiency figures of up to 68.8mpg and 92g/km CO2 emissions, it’s one of the most efficient non-plug-in cars on the market.
This latest Yaris is also much more stylish than its predecessors, while the level of equipment on offer – particularly on the safety side of things – is seriously impressive.
Enquire on a new Toyota YarisPeugeot 208
Peugeot is a brand that’s really taken a step upmarket in recent years, with the Peugeot 208 now sitting at the top end of the supermini class. Offering a stylish and distinctive design, the 208’s interior is well-built and feels more high-end than many in this class.
All versions come with a good level of standard equipment, too, while – alongside petrol and diesel models – there’s also the option of the electric e-208. Set to gain an improved powertrain later in 2023, it will offer up to 248 miles from a charge.
Enquire on a new Peugeot 208Dacia Sandero
If value for money is important it’s hard to do better than the Dacia Sandero. A starting price of £12,595 makes this model the most affordable car in its class, yet there’s far more to the Sandero than just what it costs.
Delivering a spacious interior, this latest Sandero model is decent to drive and has a far more pleasant interior too. You can also choose a more rugged-looking Stepway version if you want something a touch more stylish.
Enquire on a new Dacia SanderoSeat Ibiza
The Seat Ibiza is another sibling car to the Skoda Fabia and Volkswagen Polo, yet offers far more in the way of style than those models, while also having the sportier edge when it comes to the driving experience.
The Ibiza is another great supermini all-rounder thanks to plenty of interior space, along with a well-finished cabin and generous equipment levels. It looks particularly good in FR trim, which gets upgraded alloy wheels and a sportier exterior design.
Enquire on a new Seat Ibiza
