Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Buying a new supermini

Buying a new supermini

I need to buy a new 5 door petrol supermini, Fiesta type size - max budget around £9k. I've been looking at the i20 1.2 comfort, but haven't found a decent second hand one - and was concerned by some corrosion I saw. Would you recommend a new i20 or a second hand Fiesta, Mazda2, Yaris or Corsa?

Asked on 31 May 2011 by kirstyb

Answered by Honest John
I like Mazda 2s because of the way they drive. But the economics of a new Hyundai i20 capable of 50mpg and with a 5 year warranty package are a stronger argument.

Our honest used car pricing is a little bit different to all the others. You can get to our values through make or model - you don’t have to follow a prescribed route. Plus, it’s live, which means we can react to changes in the market quicker than any printed price guide.

Honest Used Car Prices

From which small car to buy at which price point to the best UK-built cars, our Top 10s have the lot. Click now for your shortlist.

Unsure of what to buy? Our Top 10s are here to help you....
Similar questions
We are wondering what car to buy and have narrowed it down to a Hyundai i20 Comfort or Mazda 2. Both can be purchased for £8995. I assume that they share the same tax band and are both cam chain...
I am looking to part exchange my Land Rover Freelander (2005 -05 plate diesel, 49,000 miles) for a new car with five doors, diesel engine, long warranty, cheap road fund licence and low emissions. I do...
I am considering downsizing. Do you regard the 2010 model Toyota Yaris auto a best buy or do you recommend something else?
Related models
Easy to drive and refined. Very well built. Five-year warranty as standard. Neat and tidy styling. Decent room in the back seat. Good economy from entry-level 1.2-litre.
Enjoyable and fun to drive. Economical engines. Sensibly priced. Feels well built. Ride harshness over bumps improved for 2011.
More room and better handling than the previous version. Excellent crash test rating. 1.4 D-4D does 50mpg +.
Solid and decently equipped. Reasonable handling and some frugal engines.