Top 10: Used City Cars

The Peugeot 108 is the successor to the popular 107 and adds a more grown-up element for those who want a city car that is just as capable in the depths of thick traffic as it is in the outer reaches of the suburbs.

The 108 is surprisingly well-equipped too; opt for the 'Allure' trim and you get Apple CarPlay, air conditioning, Bluetooth, and DAB radio. You can opt between a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre petrol engine, both of which are peppy enough to make decent progress when required. It's the low fuel consumption and emissions that take centre-stage with the 108 though.

Because the 108 was never a majorly expensive car when it was released, there is a number of very reasonably priced used examples on the market for you to choose from.

Would you believe us if we told you that the Nissan Micra has been around since the early 1980s? Although, it's easy to see why, because the Micra has always represented reliable motoring for a very reasonable outlay. Better yet, they've always driven well and offered plenty of ownership satisfaction.

Those who remember the original Micra will notice that the latest generations are much larger than their predecessors, but that doesn't mean the latest Micra has any issue dealing with the city; in fact, Nissan have only improved on the formula. With five doors, a spacious interior, a host of driving aids, and a frugal selection of engines, the Micra is one of the best modern city cars you can currently buy.

A city car doesn't have to be completely sensible, which is why we're placing the Abarth 595 on this list. Known for its characterful design and fun drive, the Fiat 500 on which the Abarth is based on is already a popular city car. So, add bolder exterior features, and a potent engine that has a raucous exhaust note, and you find yourself with a vehicle that is incredibly good fun!

Under the bonnet is a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine that helps shift the 595 from still to 62 mph in under 8 seconds (under 7 seconds if you go for the more powerful variant). Despite the punchy engine, the 595 can return up to 43 mpg on a combined cycle. The compact nature of the Abarth pairs nicely with the engine, meaning gaps in traffic can be exploited with ease.

Hyundai have firmly established themselves in the past decade as a car manufacturer that builds quality cars that represent excellent value for money. The little i10 city car is no exception, offering grown up manners in a compact package that is a genuine joy to drive around the town.

Opt for a 1.0-litre petrol engined i10 and you will only have to pay £20 annual road tax, which rises to a dizzying £30 if you opt for the more sprightly 1.2-litre engine. A combined cycle of up to 55 mpg is possible, which makes the i10 very affordable to run on a monthly basis. Spec is pretty good too, opt for the mid-range 'SE' trim and you get air conditioning, cruise control, and electric windows all-around. In conclusion, the i10 is a fine performer and offers excellent value on the used car market.