Our selection of top second-hand economical cars
It’s still possible to bag yourself a bargain amongst the used cars out there, with those watching the pennies able to pick from plenty of cheap to run options. Not only will they sip fuel gently, many cost very little to tax and there are ULEZ compliant cars, too.
This is our pick of the top second-hand economical cars available to buy in 2022, all to be found for less than £3,000. Although most are tiddlers, there are more spacious temptations in our list including a handy estate.
10. Fiat Panda (2012-)
Unlike most of the cars on the list, the Fiat Panda is still on sale today largely unchanged. Although it’s hard to recommend as a new car due to its dated design, it makes a great deal of sense at less than £3000. It’s cheap to tax and insure, frugal, good to drive around town and even got the option of four-wheel drive.
9. Citroen C3 (2010-2016)
You’ll need a post 2013 facelift C3 diesel for ULEZ compliance, but it’s well worth hunting one out for its blend of economy and performance. That makes it a good option for those who do a lot of motorway miles, something the diesel engine needs to run at its best.
8. Skoda Fabia Estate (2008-2014)
Despite its diminutive size the Fabia Estate can carry a surprising amount of stuff. Even the hatchback is more spacious than a Volkswagen Polo of a similar vintage while the Estate has a cavernous boot that makes it a god pic for families. Pick the 1.2 petrol for ULEZ compliance or the diesel if you chalk up plenty of time on the motorway.
7. Nissan Micra (2010-2017)
The Micra offers no-frills motoring that should prove reliable if you stick to the regular 1.2-litre engine, not the more powerful but also more complicated DIG-S. It’s a great option for those that need an automatic as they shouldn’t cost too much more than the manual.
6. Vauxhall Corsa (2014-2019)
It’s popularity as a new car means there’s plenty out there and with a wide variety of engines, too. The diesel is ULEZ compliant at this age and a frugal option, just make sure you get one with a comprehensive service history as they don’t appreciate neglect.
5. Toyota Yaris (2006-2011)
It’s trickier to find a Yaris in this price bracket than some of the other cars on this list as Toyotas hold onto their value well, but get lucky and you could nab yourself a very reliable little car. Expect to see higher-mileage examples for the money, but that shouldn’t put you off if there’s been regular servicing.
4. Hyundai i10 (2007-2013)
This was a popular choice during the scrappage scheme a few years back, so there are plenty to pick from. The lower power engines are best left to town dwellers, and the automatic is plentiful and smoother than many rivals.
3. SEAT Ibiza (2008-2017)
Pick an Ibiza if you want your hatchback served with a bit of flair. They’re attractively styled inside and out while keen drivers will enjoy the sporty handling. Even better, they’re cheap to run and also to maintain.
2. Ford Fiesta (2008-2017)
We’d stick to the petrol Fiesta to avoid some common issues with high-mileage examples of the 1.6-litre diesel. Do this and you’ll have a fun to drive little car that’s available with plenty of equipment if you stick to Zetec trim or above.
1. Renault Clio (2012-2019)
Not only is the Clio a genuinely safe small car that achieved very high scores for child and adult protection at the time, it’s refined and smooth to drive. The diesel engine is shared with many marques, including Mercedes, and the interior feels classy.
