Best Small Automatic Cars

MINI Cooper 

Key Features:
- TwinPower Turbo technology
- MINI Driving Modes
- 8.8-inch touchscreen with MINI Navigation
- Apple CarPlay
- Optional Head-Up Display
- MINI Connected services for real-time traffic and remote features

Interior and Space:
- Premium materials with retro-inspired design
- Circular central display with LED ring
- Comfortable front seats, tight rear space

Fuel Economy: Up to 47.9 mpg WLTP Consumption (combined)

Driving Experience:
- Renowned "go-kart" handling
- Responsive steering
- Firm ride, especially with larger wheels

Running Costs:
- Efficient engines, especially the 1.5L
- Strong residual values

Pros:
- Iconic styling
- Fun driving experience
- Premium interior quality
- Highly customisable

Best for: Style-conscious drivers who prioritise fun handling.

BMW 1 Series 

Key Features:

- BMW Live Cockpit Plus with BMW Curved Display
- BMW Operating System 9

Interior and Space:
- Automatic air conditioning
- Sports steering wheel
- High-quality materials throughout
- Driver-focused cockpit design
- Improved rear seat space compared to previous generation

Fuel Economy: Up to 52.3 mpg WLTP consumption (combined)

Technology available:
- iDrive infotainment system
- Optional BMW Digital Key
- Intelligent Personal Assistant for voice commands
- Active Guard Plus safety system
- Parking Assistant incl. Reversing Assistant, Active Park Distance Control and Reversing Assist Camera
- Cruise Control with brake function

Driving Experience:
- Balanced handling with good grip
- Comfortable for long journeys

Running Costs:
- Efficient engines
- Strong residual values

Pros:
- Strong performance
- High-quality interior
- Excellent infotainment system

Best for: Drivers wanting a premium small car with sportier handling and cutting-edge technology.

Volvo EX30

Key Features:

• Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play Store)
• 12.3-inch central touchscreen
• Advanced driver assistance systems
• Sustainable interior materials

Interior and Space:

• Minimalist Scandinavian design
• Streamlined dashboard with central screen
• Compact exterior with surprisingly roomy interior
• Innovative storage solutions

Range:

• Up to 209.4 miles (Combined WLTP Consumption) for single-motor version
• Up to 279.6 miles (Combined WLTP Consumption) for dual-motor version

Technology:

• Over-the-air updates
• Smartphone as key functionality
• 360-degree camera available
• One-pedal driving mode

Driving Experience:

• Quick acceleration (3.6 seconds 0-62 mph for dual-motor version)
• Agile handling due to compact size
• Quiet and smooth electric driving

Running Costs:

• Low running costs due to electric powertrain
• Potential savings on road tax and congestion charges
• Minimal maintenance requirements compared to ICE vehicles

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design
• Excellent safety features
• Quick acceleration
• Zero tailpipe emissions

Best for: Environmentally conscious drivers looking for a premium compact electric SUV with cutting-edge technology and Volvo's renowned safety features.

Volkswagen Polo

Key Features:
- Digital Cockpit
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Wireless App-Connect

Interior and Space:
- Well-built with quality materials
- Spacious for its class, especially rear seats
- Clear, logical layout of controls

Fuel Economy: Up to 52.8 mpg (|WLTP consumption combined)

Technology:
- Digital Cockpit with customisable displays
- Optional IQ.DRIVE travel assist for semi-autonomous driving

Driving Experience:
- Refined and composed on the road
- Comfortable ride, especially on smaller wheels
- Easy and reassuring to drive, if not the most engaging

Running Costs:
- Efficient engines keep fuel costs down
- Fixed-price servicing plans available
- Good reliability record

Pros:
- Refined driving experience
- Spacious for its size
- Good build quality

Best for: Those seeking a practical, well-built small car with a mature feel and advanced tech features.

Kia Picanto

Key Features:

• 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist

Interior and Space:

• Simple, functional design
• Brilliant front space
• Good visibility due to large windows

Fuel Economy: Up to 54.3 mpg (WLTP consumption combined)

Technology:

• 4.2-inch supervision cluster in instrument panel

Driving Experience:

• Nimble in urban environments
• Light controls make it easy to drive
• Less comfortable on motorways

Running Costs:

• Very economical engines
• Low insurance groups
• 7-year/100,000-mile warranty

Pros:

• Great value for money
• Long warranty
• Easy to park and maneuver

Best for: City dwellers on a budget who want a new car with warranty peace of mind and good standard equipment.