Compare the best small automatic cars
High-quality small automatic cars from rated and reviewed dealers
Best small automatic cars of 2022
Small cars have come on in leaps and bounds over the past decade and moving from a larger, older car need not mean a step down in specification levels or refinement. Especially if you pick one with a modern automatic gearbox. Here are some of the very best ones you can buy today.
1. Hyundai i10
carwow price from
£161* / month
(£12,547)
Over the years Hyundai has gradually evolved its smallest i10 model into a truly impressive little city car. It is very easy to drive although the base models are a bit sparsely equipped. Mid-range versions can be equipped with an automated manual transmission which is a boon in traffic.
2. Volkswagen Polo
carwow price from
£174* / month
(£17,956)
For a big car experience in a small package look no further than the accomplished VW Polo. It may not be the most fun to drive and the options can get pricey, but it has a very comfortable ride and the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is quick and smooth.
3. Peugeot 208
carwow price from
£220* / month
(£17,271)
The 208 is one of the most striking cars in its class thanks to its adventurous exterior design and smart looking interior. A slick 8-speed automatic is an option on the petrol models. The only real negative points are a slightly fussy infotainment screen and tight rear legroom.
4. Ford Fiesta
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£234* / month
(£16,244)
The default sporty drive in the small car segment is also comfortable and comes well equipped. It’s a bit short on luggage and rear passenger space, though. Higher-spec petrol models can be fitted with a seven-speed automatic, making the Fiesta an even better traffic-friendly hatchback.
5. Vauxhall Corsa-e
Battery range up to 222 miles
carwow price from
£290* / month
(£25,387)
The Vauxhall Corsa is already an accomplished small hatchback, and it’s made even better in fully electric Corsa-e guise. It can get a bit tight in the rear for adults but you get nippy performance, impressive range and a decent amount of kit. Being electric means there are no gearchanges to worry about either.
6. Honda Jazz
carwow price from
£231* / month
(£19,671)
The latest Honda Jazz is all about space, efficiency and ease of use. It has a fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain which comes standard with an automatic gearbox making it great for town use. It is a bit pricier than some alternatives and isn’t the most exciting to drive, though.
7. MINI Hatch
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£222* / month
(£17,421)
The MINI hatch offers an engaging driving experience and offers tons of customisation options. Every model can also be fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which is sharp and suits the fizzy nature of the car. It is a bit tight inside though, so pick the five-door if you plan on carrying passengers.
8. SEAT Ibiza
carwow price from
£184* / month
(£16,791)
The Ibiza is an accomplished little hatch with a recently updated interior and an eye-catching design. The larger petrol engine can be paired with a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, making it quicker than the manual with only a slight fuel economy penalty. Avoid the higher spec models though as they can get pricey.
9. Audi A1
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£217* / month
(£20,168)
Classy and sophisticated, the Audi A1 is like a shrunken down luxury car. To go along with the hi-tech interior, it can also be fitted with an impressive seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It isn’t the most exciting to drive though and it is a bit pricier than most rivals.
10. Kia Picanto
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£138* / month
(£10,989)
The Picanto looks great, has a decent boot and comes with a class-leading seven-year warranty. It’s also easy to drive around town, especially when fitted with the optional five-speed automated manual transmission. It’s worth noting that some rivals have more rear passenger space and cope better on the motorway.
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