A guide to the best city cars

City cars have not only remained popular over the past few years, but they've also continued to develop, getting better all the time. The days of the small, cramped, cheap run-around are gone, and although fewer manufacturers are still competing in the city car market, those who are have ensured their cars are extremely desirable.

With more technology, improved ride comfort, better fuel efficiencies, and even a range of fuel options now available, there is so much going on for city cars. Here is our list of the top 5 used city cars that are well-rounded, practical and overall ideal cars for town and city driving - without compromise.

Fiat 500

This small Italian car has to be a consideration for your next city car. The Fiat 500 has a retro design and has kept a similar iconic style throughout its life. Offering plenty of space up front, you and your passenger will have plenty of rrom as you nip around the city, with the compact boot offering enough room for a few bits of shopping. As with many city cars, the technology has kept up to date and there is plenty of mod-cons to keep you satisfied.

Although the most recent model is available in fully electric, if you're not ready to make that jump yet, there are many second-hand 500s which are petrol run. Due to their size and power, most Fiat's will be clean air zone or ULEZ compliant - ideal for environmentally-conscious city living.

Volkswagen up!

With a smart interior and a style which still seems fresh, the up! is a great city car option. Thanks to the traditional Volkswagen design, it has a high-quality feel with a comfortable drive, ideal not just for city driving but for any longer journeys as well. The up!'s unrivalled performance also handles the motorways well, so this car is ideal if you're thinking of heading outside the city limits any time soon.

This Volkswagen is also an extremely practical choice. It offers ample space inside, especially with the 5-door option which allow easy access for passengers in the back. The boot is also reasonable so you'll be able to fit a little more in than just your shopping.

Hyundai i10

A popular choice for many, the Hyundai i10 is a high-quality option for your next city car. Often in high demand, this car is known for being extremly comfortable, quiet to drive, very spacious, and it lives up to those expectations. As well as its comfortable ride, the interior won't let you down either, giving a stylish and high-quality feel whilst also delivering on the cars tech.

It may not be the most eye-catching from the outside, but this user-friendly car has plenty of room inside, with adults able to comfortably sit in the back without their knees around their ears. And although you won't be able to fit a sofa in the boot, there is plenty of space for your overnight bag and other essentials for your next trip away.

Kia Picanto

This Kia offers a more sporty feel compared to our other city cars, and its driving style is there to match. The Picanto is fun to drive whilst also offering a comfortable interior - not a bad combination in our eyes! Available in both 3 and 5 doors, this car is a practical and cheap-to-run city car, plus its light steering makes it a breeze to park - ideal for a small city car.

 A big benefit of buying any Kia, even used, is that they come with a manufacturer's warranty for 7 years as standard. As long as the car has full-service history, the warranty is transferred to each new owner so you'll still be covered even if you aren't the first owner. The main catch? If the car has done over 100,000 miles, the warranty expires so check the mileage before you try to claim.

Toyota Aygo

The Toyota Aygo is a stylish and economical small city car, ideal for nipping around the streets. Popular with first-time drivers thanks to its low insurance group and low running costs, it's also extremely user-friendly, fuel-efficient and cheap to repair. As well as its economical benefits, this Toyota drives well on the road, handles well and is incredibly light - ideal for parking in small city car parks.

Recently replaced by the Aygo X, the original Aygo is still a great purchase. It may only measure under 3.5 metres in length, but this car has plenty of space with enough space for 2 adults to travel in comfort in the front and the rear seats will handle smaller passengers for long journeys.

Need help buying your next city car?

Small city cars are ideal for town and city life - fuel-efficient, small, nippy and perfect for parking in tiny underground city car parks. Many can even cope with those longer motorway journeys so you're no longer restricted on where you can go.

Here at Carbase, we stock a variety of used cars, including the best city cars on the market. We have a wide range of makes and models with low mileage and budgets to suit everyone.

Explore our used cars, or get in touch if you have any questions - we'd love to help!