What cheap to run small automatic for under £3000 do you recommend?

We are looking at 2008 Toyota Aygo automatic as run about for my wife, attracted by £20 tax, fuel economy and reliability. But it seems expensive compared to others. Can you suggest better option where purchase price of slightly larger car would offset higher running costs. Ideally something reasonably high off the ground for ease of access.

Asked on 30 November 2023 by Robin

Answered by Andrew Brady
The issue with the Aygo auto is it's an automated manual gearbox rather than a 'proper' auto - so it's slow to respond and can be less than reliable than a traditional torque-converter. The Aygo is very popular with first time drivers, too, which might explain why they're relatively expensive. Have you considered a Honda Jazz? It's a bigger car than the Aygo, with easy access and a reliable CVT automatic gearbox. Alternatively, look for a Hyundai i10 or i20 with a conventional automatic transmission.
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