With agile handling, eager yet economical engines, generous levels of equipment and sensible pricing, the Suzuki Swift is a great car. It’s practical and well made, but it doesn’t feel quite as plush or substantial as a SEAT Ibiza. Even so, it’s still one of our favourite hatchbacks. It might look...

The Skoda Fabia has always been a sensible choice of small car and the latest incarnation keeps up the tradition. It’s reasonably priced, cheap to run, comfortable and practical, but gets an added dash of upmarket appeal thanks to new Skoda family styling and extra technology, including standard DAB...

The Honda Jazz is something of an unsung hero among small hatches. Unfairly derided for its sensible image and traditionally more 'mature' owner - the average buyer age is ober 60 - the Jazz has never quite had the appeal of the likes of the Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta. But maybe this third generation...

I don't have to persuade people into buying a Jazz. They love it anyway, for all of the sensible reasons I'd have used in my sales pitch. So it's not an emotional decision based on looks alone, as it might be for a Fiat 500 or a MINI. It's the whole package: a car that's going to do everything you...

The Ford Fiesta is a stylish and well built car that leads the way among small hatchbacks. No car this size manages to match its all round abilities, from the keen handling to its refined interior and stylish looks. It really does have it all. In fact, it's so good, the Ford Fiesta is a genuine rival...

The A1 has proved to be a real success for Audi creating as much interest as the likes of the R8. The small hatchback is no bigger than a Fiesta yet it's proving very desirable for people wanting a small car that still has a premium feel. Initially available as a three-door, Audi has taken the obvious...