Could you recommend a small, cheap to run car with a bit of oomph?

My 2003 Renault Megane convertible is about to die. I LOVE this car; it's so easy to drive, decent acceleration, good for longish journeys. But read tax is over £200 a year and insurance is fairly high. It also only does 35mpg. So, I'm looking for a 3-door, smaller car but I want something fun to drive that looks nice. Is there anything that looks funky, lovely to drive, has bit of power — but also has low road tax and insurance? Budget £3000, possibly £3500. I know I want the earth... Suzuki Swifts look cool but I've never driven one. Polos look boring, Corsas are too common, Fiestas don't really excite me. Thanks!

Asked on 7 April 2021 by Andrew

Answered by Andrew Brady
A Suzuki Swift sounds like a good option. They're very reliable, cheap to run and represent excellent value for money on the used market. We rate the Fiesta, too, but it's certainly not an exciting choice. How about a SEAT Ibiza? It's a very trendy little car with low running costs.
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