What are the Best Used Small Cars for £5000?

Looking for a small car that’s reliable, affordable, and easy to drive? Whether you’re looking for your first car or you’re downsizing your current car, we’re here to try and help.

With so many makes and models on the market to choose from, the choice can feel overwhelming. So to help you decide, we’ve listed some of the best used small cars to buy on the market and what you may want to look for when you’re choosing.

Finding the Perfect Used Small Car

The best used small car for you comes down to what you’re looking for. But whether you’re after something practical for everyday errands or sleek new set of wheels, understanding the market is key when buying used. And it’s equally as important to know what to look for and the checks you’ll need to make. 

Here are the things to keep in mind.

Understanding the Used Small Car Market

The good news is, you might have a wide range of choices. The used car market is full of compact cars from lots of different brands, in a wide range of conditions and prices. 

This is something you’ll need to consider, as prices vary a lot with used cars. A newer small car with low mileage and a full service history will often cost more than an older one with more miles on the clock or one that’s in worse condition. But it could be worth it if you can afford it. Paying a little extra for a car that’s been well looked after could save you money in the long run if you factor in repairs.

It’s a good idea to compare a few cars before making a decision about which is the best used small car for you. Read some reviews, take your time, and be sure to check the car’s history first so you can make an informed decision.

Remember: Make sure to assess your budget carefully and only borrow what you can afford to repay. Applying for finance may involve a credit check which could impact your credit score if you decide to proceed.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Small Car

When you’re shopping for the best small used car to buy it’s important to look beyond just the price and the colour. A car might seem like a bargain at first glance, but it’s worth taking the time to make sure it’s safe, reliable, and good value for money. Here are some key things you might want to consider:

1. Condition: Check both the inside and outside of the car. Look for scratches, rust, dents, or signs of a crash repair. Inside, make sure the seats, dashboard, and electronics are all in good shape.
2. Mileage: A car with lower mileage usually has less wear and tear, but don’t necessarily rule out higher-mileage cars if they’ve been well looked after with regular servicing.
3. Service history: Also ask to see a service history. A full or part service history shows the car has been maintained properly.
4. Running costs: Smaller cars are usually cheaper to insure, tax, and fuel, but it’s important to check things like miles per gallon and road tax before deciding.
5. Reputation: Some small cars are known for being more reliable than others. It’s worth checking reviews and seeing what other drivers say about the model you’re interested in.

Documentation and Checks

Before agreeing to buy, always ask to see the car’s paperwork. This can tell you a lot about its past and whether it’s a smart buy. Always check the following:

• V5C logbook: This proves who owns the car and how many previous owners it’s had. You need to check if the seller’s name matches the name on the logbook.
• MOT certificate: Check the MOT is valid and when it was last carried out.
• Service history: Ask for a stamped service book or digital service record. Regular services are a sign the car’s been looked after.
• HPI or history check: This shows if the car has outstanding finance, been written off by an insurer, or been reported stolen. 
• Mileage check: Make sure the mileage matches what’s shown in the MOT history and on the dashboard.

What to Look for During a Test Drive

It can be a good idea to give the car a test drive first to make sure you’re happy with how it feels and that there aren’t any issues.

Start by checking how easily it starts up, and pay attention to how the steering feels when you start to drive. If the car pulls to one side or the wheel vibrates, there could be an issue with the suspension or alignment. It’s also important to try the brakes at different speeds. They should stop the car smoothly and straight, without squealing, grinding, or pulling. If the car has a manual gearbox, gear changes should be easy and smooth. A stiff gear lever or a high clutch bite point could mean wear and tear. 

Other than that it's down to your comfort and whether you can see clearly out of all the windows. Just remember to take your time and check everything feels okay before you make a final decision.

Best Used Small Cars by Category and Budget

Best Used Small Cars for under £5000

Ford Fiesta

The Fiesta could be one of the best used small cars under £5000, and for a very good reason: it is a remarkable all-rounder. The Fiesta isn’t just great fun to drive, it’s also remarkably quiet, comfortable and practical for such a small car. The driving position can be adjusted for all shapes and sizes and there’s a decent boot.

It might also be more affordable to run with low-cost insurance, cheap maintenance and the ability to sip rather than gulp its fuel. For drivers who’ll be using their car round town, the petrol model could be the one to pick. A tip for buyers who want to cut their running costs is that the 1.0-litre version is exempt from road tax. And you may want to go for the Style trim.

Renault Clio

 

The Clio is another of the best small used cars to buy on a budget. Though it’s affordable, the cabin has an upmarket feel to it, the engines are quiet and the suspension’s ride is forgiving of Britain’s pot-holed streets. Even rear seat passengers will appreciate the difference with more space compared with other small cars.

The huge range of models includes the popular TomTom variants which come with sat nav. And even the most basic Expression versions are well equipped, with electric front windows, front and side airbags and electric door mirrors.

Honda Jazz

 

The Jazz is a hugely popular used small car, because it has a well-founded reputation for faultless reliability. £5000 will get you an older Jazz model, because price is dictated by supply and demand. The Jazz is popular with used car buyers, because it has a well-founded reputation for faultless reliability. Therefore, people who have them tend to hang onto them.

The reason for this is that beyond the exceptional reliability, they could offer class-leading practicality and cabin comfort (the interior is not only spacious but versatile and the boot is big for a car of this size) as well as good fuel economy and cheap running costs. So don’t be put off by its older image!

Best Used Small Cars Under £10,000

Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid

The self-charging Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid could be a great option if you want something efficient without feeling basic. The Ioniq stands out for its low emissions and high mpg, making it ideal for commuters. The ride is smooth and quiet, and it holds up well on the motorway too. 

Inside, the Ioniq offers a good amount of space for a small car; it’s got a large boot, and plenty of tech. It’s one of the best small used cars to buy if you want a sensible, low-cost hybrid that still feels modern and up to date.

Kia Niro Hybrid

The Kia Niro Hybrid is a compact crossover that offers the best of a hatchback with the added practicality and height of a small SUV. One of the best small hybrid cars in the UK, It’s reliable, economical, and simple to drive because it’s an automatic and has a handy self-charging hybrid system.

There’s plenty of room inside, with comfortable seating and a decent-sized boot. If you want a hybrid that’s versatile and family-friendly without feeling bulky, the Niro could be a great option.

Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The Toyota Corolla Hybrid could be another smart, no-fuss option if you want a small car that’s efficient and easy to live with. It’s smooth to drive, and doesn’t need to be plugged in. It’s a small hatchback, but it feels stable and has light steering and enough power to handle longer journeys well.  

Inside, there’s a decent amount of space for passengers and shopping, and many used models come with handy features like a touchscreen, reversing camera, and lane assist. If you’re after something reliable, efficient, and straightforward, the Corolla Hybrid ticks a lot of boxes.

Best Used Small Electric Cars

Peugeot e-208

One of the best used small electric cars on the market is the Peugeot e-208. It’s got quick acceleration, and a decent range (depending on the model, around 200 miles on a full charge) It’s great for city driving and easy to park, but equally suited to faster roads too.

Inside, it’s well put together with a digital display and other handy tech features. Most used models come with useful extras like rear parking sensors too. It could be ideal if you want a small EV that doesn’t feel stripped back.

MINI Electric

The MINI Electric keeps the charm of the original MINI but runs on battery power. It delivers quick acceleration, confident handling, and works especially well for towns and cities thanks to its small size (which also makes parking a dream). 

With a range of about 140 miles, it’s best suited for shorter trips. The interior still feels premium, with playful styling and quality materials throughout. It’s definitely one of the best used small electric cars on the market if you’re looking for something with a lot of character!

Fiat 500 Electric

If you like your cars small, stylish, and simple to run, the Fiat 500 Electric could be the best used small car for you. It keeps the charm of the original but adds modern tech and it’s fully electric. The range is around 180 miles, depending on the battery size.

Inside, it’s got a clean, modern layout with touchscreen controls and a digital driver display. It’s not huge, but it’s popular for single drivers or small couples that mostly stick to city driving.

Best Used Small Luxury Cars

Audi A1

Though it’s a compact car, the Audi A1 gives you a premium feel. It’s quiet, smooth, and feels more luxurious inside than most other small cars. The engines are efficient too, especially the 1.0-litre petrol, which is ideal for everyday driving.

Despite its compact size, the A1 doesn’t feel cramped. It’s easy to drive, handles corners well, and has a boot big enough for shopping or weekend bags. It’s undoubtedly one of the best used luxury small cars if you want a premium feel without going up in size.

MINI Cooper

The MINI Cooper mixes classic styling with a more upmarket interior than most small cars. It’s fun to drive, with sharp steering and a firm but comfortable ride. The cabin has a unique design, but it doesn’t sacrifice on quality or tech.

It works well around town but doesn’t feel out of place on the motorway either. It could be a great all-rounder for drivers who want something stylish, compact, and well-made.

DS 3 Crossback

The DS 3 Crossback stands out with its bold design and luxurious interior. It’s particularly quiet, and has a smooth ride. Plus, a cabin that feels really premium, with a digital dash, supportive seats, and lots of attention to detail.

It’s not the most spacious, especially in the back, but it feels comfortable and luxurious. If you want something small that still feels different from the usual premium brands, the DS 3 could be worth a look.

Best Used Small SUVs

Volkswagen T-Cross

The T-Cross offers the feel of a larger SUV without the bulk. It’s built with typical Volkswagen quality, featuring a smart dashboard, a comfortable driving position, and practical storage. The boot is a decent size and the rear seats slide to create extra space.

It’s an easy car to drive, with light steering and good visibility. It suits a wide range of drivers, from city commuters to small families.

Ford Puma

The Ford Puma blends SUV practicality with fun handling. It’s slightly raised, making it easier to get in and out of, but it still feels sharp on the road. The interior is modern and functional, and there’s an impressive amount of space for a small SUV.

One of the standout features is the MegaBox in the boot, which adds hidden storage for muddy boots or sports gear if you need it.

SEAT Arona

The SEAT Arona is a compact SUV that doesn’t feel basic. It shares parts with other VW Group cars but has its own character. It’s easy to drive, with a smooth ride and good fuel economy.

Inside, it’s practical and user-friendly, with clear controls and plenty of space for passengers. The Arona could be a solid option if you want the raised feel of an SUV without going too big.

Best Used Small Family Cars

Volkswagen Polo

The Polo has long been a go-to for drivers who want something compact but not cramped. It offers good build quality, a comfortable ride, and a cabin that feels more mature than most in this class.

There’s enough room for a small family, with a decent boot and ISOFIX points in the back. It’s easy to drive, fuel efficient and has been known to hold its value well.

Kia Ceed

The Kia Ceed gives you more space than a typical small hatchback, which could make it a practical option for families. It has five doors, a roomy boot, and a cabin that’s well laid out with plenty of tech features.

With a smooth drive and plenty of space, it could be a solid choice for anyone looking for reliability, practicality and value in a small family car.

Hyundai i30

The Hyundai i30 has the perfect balance of comfort, space, and affordability. It’s easy to drive, with supportive seats and a sleek interior. There’s also plenty of room in the back for kids or extra luggage if you need it.

Running costs can be low, and the i30 tends to be well-equipped even in older models. If you want a small family car that doesn’t feel cramped, this one could be ideal for you.

Best Used Small Sports Cars

Mazda MX-5

The MX-5 is one of the most popular sports cars for good reason. It’s light, rear-wheel-drive, and fun to drive on both city roads and country lanes. It handles corners well, and the manual gearbox is smooth and easy to use.

With only two seats and a small boot it’s not the most practical of the bunch, but it could be great for a single driver or as a second car if you don’t need a huge amount of space.

Toyota GT86

The GT86 delivers rear-wheel-drive fun with a bit more space than a traditional two-seater. It’s got a low driving position and a naturally aspirated engine that rewards drivers who enjoy a more involved experience.

It’s not overly fast, but it’s well balanced and agile. You’ll find a basic but functional interior, and it’s relatively affordable to run for a sports car. It suits those who want a real driving experience without going overboard.

Abarth 595

The Abarth 595 is based on the Fiat 500 but packs in a lot more power and attitude. It’s compact but loud and playful, with a turbocharged engine and distinctive looks. The ride is firm, but it feels quick and responsive.

Inside, it keeps the retro design but adds sportier touches like bucket seats and performance gauges. It’s not the most practical car, but it could be ideal for drivers who want something small with a lot of personality.

Find the best used small cars with Car Finance 247

Finding the right small car doesn’t have to be complicated. With Car Finance 247, you could explore a wide range of reliable used cars that fit your budget and lifestyle. Start your search today and see if you could drive away in the best used small car for you.

Disclaimer: Car Finance 247 Limited is a credit broker, not a lender. Finance is subject to status and terms. Always ensure you understand the terms and conditions before applying. This guide is for informational purposes and not financial advice.