they come in 3 different sizes – tiny 3.5m city size, 3.7m super minis and 4m super-sized. They mostly have about the same space in the front. It’s in rear passenger space and/or boot size you’ll find the difference. There’s an added difference when some models favour rear passenger space at the expense of the boot or vicky verky. So it’s not easy deciding.
Otherwise only a few are reasonably quick at the entry level. And a few are painfully slow.
Most small cars have similar economy, emissions and car insurance groups. There are some that are outstanding.
Only older models have less than a 4-star Euro NCAP ratings. Some newer models now achieve 5-star ratings.
Let’s look at a super-size VW Polo vs a tiny Citroen C1.
The Polo is at 3.9m a lot larger than the C1 at 3.4m so the Polo is more spacious in the rear and boot than the Citroen. The C1 is very tight for rear passengers and has practicaly no boot.
However the C1 is far better for performance, economy, emissions and car insurance.
So you can see the 2 cars suit different lifestyles.
The VW Polo is very similar to Aveo, C3, Getz, Colt, Micra, Ibiza, Fabia and Swift. The Polo is cheaper than newer small cars like the Fiesta, 207 and Clio.
The Citroen C1 is not particularly cheap and has about the same entry price as the Polo. The C1 is the same as the Peugeot 107 and Aygo. All the value brands undercut them on price.
Confused? That’s the idea so manufacturers can charge different prices. But when you look at cars in comparison charts – bearing in mind 3 sizes – they are very similar. So you should be able to find value and a car to suit your lifestyle.
Regards
Ralph
