Best Small Automatic Cars – Quick Overview
The Renault Clio E‑Tech tops our list of the best small automatic cars, offering hybrid efficiency, city‑friendly size, and a smooth drive.
Best Small Automatic Cars 2024 – Price, Mileage & Features Reviewed
Image: Best Small Automatic Cars 2024 – Price, Mileage & Features Reviewed – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Modern super‑minis have stepped away from the boxy, utilitarian look of the past. The Clio’s sleek front grille, sharp LED lights, and a compact yet sporty silhouette make it easy to park and pleasant to spot on a busy street. The Ford Fiesta Hybrid keeps a youthful edge with a curvy roofline, while the Toyota Yaris Hybrid adopts a more conservative, clean design that still feels fresh.
Performance & Mileage
All the models listed use mild‑hybrid or full‑hybrid systems that pair a small petrol engine with an electric motor. This combo gives a peppy low‑end torque for stop‑and‑go traffic and improves fuel consumption. The Clio E‑Tech delivers around 55 mpg (4.5 L/100 km) in real‑world city driving, and the Fiesta Hybrid is close behind at 58 mpg. The Yaris Hybrid edges out the competition with a best‑in‑class 60 mpg, thanks to its efficient 1.5‑L engine.
Price & Rivals
Pricing for these small automatics stays under £20,000, making them affordable first‑car options. The Clio starts at £19,495, the Fiesta at £18,799, and the Yaris at £19,150. Competing models like the Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio offer comparable prices but lack a hybrid powertrain, meaning higher running costs over time.
| Model | Engine | Mileage (mpg) | Price (GBP) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renault Clio E‑Tech | 1.6 L hybrid | 55 | £19,495 |
|
| Ford Fiesta Hybrid | 1.0 L EcoBoost + motor | 58 | £18,799 |
|
| Toyota Yaris Hybrid | 1.5 L hybrid | 60 | £19,150 |
|
| Hyundai i20 (Auto) | 1.2 L petrol | 45 | £17,990 |
|
| Kia Rio (Auto) | 1.2 L petrol | 44 | £17,750 |
|
FAQ
- What is the fuel‑economy of the Renault Clio E‑Tech? It achieves about 55 mpg (4.5 L/100 km) in mixed driving.
- Is a small automatic hybrid worth buying for city commutes? Yes – the automatic gearbox removes clutch fatigue in traffic, while the hybrid system cuts fuel costs and emissions.
- How does the price of a hybrid small car compare to a conventional automatic? Hybrid models are typically £1,000‑£2,000 more expensive up‑front, but lower running costs usually offset the difference within a few years.
What do you think? Share your favourite small automatic in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
