Best buys: City cars

Best in class

Hyundai i10

We're starting to think that the Hyundai i10 might have some staying power. Even with the introduction of its impressive larger brother, the i20, the little i10 probably remains the pick of the whole Hyundai range. For everyone who thinks that carmakers put less effort and time into their small cars (because they payback is necessarily smaller) take a look at this – terrific build quality, proper big-car refinement and comfort and the same five-year warranty from which the rest of the Hyundai range benefits. The only flaws are rubbery, inaccurate steering and a boot that's on the small side. Otherwise, this is a car which can take on and embarrass many a larger, supposedly grander, model. Best one: 1.0 Deluxe for €13,745

Also consider 

Renault Twingo

The only shame is that, as yet, Renault hasn’t gone the whole hog and made a proper, revvy, snorting Renault Sport version of this car. Not that the world really, truly needs yet another hot hatch but just because it would be gloriously hilarious to have a performance car with a turning circle this tight. It would be unbeatable on hairpins. As for the cooking Twingo, it’s lovely. Not great to drive but a great thing to have in town, and surprisingly comfy on a longer journey. Oh, and there is a 120hp GT version on the way…

Volkswagen Up

Or you could have a Seat Mii or Skoda Citigo – all three are basically identical (bar the badges and equipment lists) and all three represent the grown-up face of small car motoring. If the Twingo is the city car essayed by Fisher Price then the Up is the small car by Hugo Boss; sober, perhaps but beautifully executed. Space in the back and boot isn't that great but it's very comfy up front by city-car standards and exemplary to drive. The 1.0-litre engine does 50mpg no matter how or where you drive it.

Worth waiting for

Opel Karl

We’re unsure of how the name is going to play, but the Adam doesn’t seem to have been too badly held back by its moniker so there’s hope. Hope too that Opel can bring some of the updated Corsa’s cabin quality and refinement to this cheaper segment. Launches: This summer

Underrated

Fiat Panda

Oft-overlooked with the i10 and Up sitting at the top of the city car ziggurat, the Panda is a funky, good-looking small-car choice with a lofty driving position, surprising space and real driving zest. Sharp steering shows the i10 how to do handling too and there’s even a hilariously capable and ludicrously expensive 4x4 Panda Cross version for those who fear snow.