DRIVERS looking for a no-fuss motor that won’t cost a fortune may think finding a sub-£15,000 set of wheels is hopeless.
After all, the increase in the price of new cars over the last 10 years is somewhat frightening.
Even in the last five years, motorists have felt the squeeze.
According to AutoCar, the cheapest car in 2019 was less than £8,000, whereas now, even spending £15,000 or £200 per month on a finance scheme leaves few options available.
However, it can be done – just about – with five excellent budget options that are cheap, efficient and simple. No fuss, no muss.
The little hatchback was once famously a running gag for Top Gear legend James May – but now it’s one of Europe‘s most popular motors.
That’s “good news” for fans of the model, which can be picked up brand new for under £15,000.
The Sandero sold 143,596 units across the continent in the first six months of 2024 – up 16% on the same time last year.
The Sandero’s popularity may be something to do with the fact that it is the cheapest new car currently available in the UK that offers a range of excellent features.
That includes a surprisingly spacious interior, comfortable driving position, good fuel economy, and basic but functional gadgets – all at a very affordable price point compared to its competitors.
Described by Sun Motors supremo as a “corking little runaround” in his review in July, the Picanto – the 1.0 1 iteration, that is – squeezes under AutoCar’s £15,000-mark.
The little motor, which resembles the Hyundai i10 in more ways than just looks, is fun to drive, with a lightweight build that makes it very agile.
Naturally, for the ultra-cheap base model, it lacks some modern conveniences and has minimal equipment.
Gone are the days of MG being a maker of nippy, good-looking roadsters.
The iconic British-blooded but Chinese-owned brand has now become renowned for its brilliant, budget family motors.
For £14,320, drivers can pick up the basic MG 3 ‘Excite’ – which includes air-con, four electric windows, electric mirrors, parking sensors and a leather steering wheel.
It’s also surprisingly spacious inside, nearly matching the supermini-sized Sandero for family-friendly accommodation, but it suffers from poor fuel economy and a less refined driving experience.
Like its label-mate, the Picanto, the i10 is another Korean-made supermini that won’t break the bank – as it’s also incredibly cheap to insure.
It’s surprisingly roomy inside and even offers a considerable boot, as well as a smooth gearbox.
What’s more, its compact size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre.
The charming C3 is about as relaxing as it gets, with its exceptionally soft suspension offering a comfortable ride that absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road.
The budget-friendly ‘You’ iteration is brilliantly fuel-efficient, with a 45-litre fuel tank and a Stop/Start system, while its light steering makes it easy to park and manoeuvre in tight spaces – with rear parking sensors coming as standard.
