Best Small Automatic Cars
Looking for a small automatic car that's easy to drive and packed with features? We've rounded up five top contenders from MINI, BMW, Volvo, Volkswagen, and Kia. Each offers a unique blend of style, technology, and performance to suit different needs and budgets.
1. New MINI Cooper
2. BMW 1 Series
3. Volvo EX30
4. Volkswagen Polo
5. Kia Picanto
![MINI Cooper](/ImageLibrary/images/MINI/Retail/Master/Split%20Content/MINI-New-Cooper-Split-Content.jpg?mode=max&upscale=true&width=340)
1. MINI Cooper Automatic
MINI Cooper
Key Features:
- TwinPower Turbo technology
- MINI Driving Modes
- 8.8-inch touchscreen with MINI Navigation
- Apple CarPlay
- Optional Head-Up Display
- MINI Connected services for real-time traffic and remote features
Interior and Space:
- Premium materials with retro-inspired design
- Circular central display with LED ring
- Comfortable front seats, tight rear space
Fuel Economy: Up to 47.9 mpg WLTP Consumption (combined)
Driving Experience:
- Renowned "go-kart" handling
- Responsive steering
- Firm ride, especially with larger wheels
Running Costs:
- Efficient engines, especially the 1.5L
- Strong residual values
Pros:
- Iconic styling
- Fun driving experience
- Premium interior quality
- Highly customisable
Best for: Style-conscious drivers who prioritise fun handling.
![BMW 1 Series](/ImageLibrary/images/BMW/Retail/Master/Split-Content/BMW-1-Series-New-Car-Model-Gallery-1-1599x498.jpg?mode=max&upscale=true&width=340)
2. BMW 1 Series (120 S Automatic)
BMW 1 Series
Key Features:
- BMW Live Cockpit Plus with BMW Curved Display
- BMW Operating System 9
Interior and Space:
- Automatic air conditioning
- Sports steering wheel
- High-quality materials throughout
- Driver-focused cockpit design
- Improved rear seat space compared to previous generation
Fuel Economy: Up to 52.3 mpg WLTP consumption (combined)
Technology available:
- iDrive infotainment system
- Optional BMW Digital Key
- Intelligent Personal Assistant for voice commands
- Active Guard Plus safety system
- Parking Assistant incl. Reversing Assistant, Active Park Distance Control and Reversing Assist Camera
- Cruise Control with brake function
Driving Experience:
- Balanced handling with good grip
- Comfortable for long journeys
Running Costs:
- Efficient engines
- Strong residual values
Pros:
- Strong performance
- High-quality interior
- Excellent infotainment system
Best for: Drivers wanting a premium small car with sportier handling and cutting-edge technology.
![Volvo EX30](/ImageLibrary/images/Volvo/Retail/Split%20Content/volvo-ex30-split-content.jpg?mode=max&upscale=true&width=340)
3. Volvo EX30 (Electric)
Volvo EX30
Key Features:
- Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play Store)
- 12.3-inch central touchscreen
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Sustainable interior materials
Interior and Space:
- Minimalist Scandinavian design
- Streamlined dashboard with central screen
- Compact exterior with surprisingly roomy interior
- Innovative storage solutions
Range:
- Up to 209.4 miles (Combined WLTP Consumption) for single-motor version
- Up to 279.6 miles (Combined WLTP Consumption) for dual-motor version
Technology:
- Over-the-air updates
- Smartphone as key functionality
- 360-degree camera available
- One-pedal driving mode
Driving Experience:
- Quick acceleration (3.6 seconds 0-62 mph for dual-motor version)
- Agile handling due to compact size
- Quiet and smooth electric driving
Running Costs:
- Low running costs due to electric powertrain
- Potential savings on road tax and congestion charges
- Minimal maintenance requirements compared to ICE vehicles
Pros:
- Stylish and modern design
- Excellent safety features
- Quick acceleration
- Zero tailpipe emissions
Best for: Environmentally conscious drivers looking for a premium compact electric SUV with cutting-edge technology and Volvo's renowned safety features.
![Volkswagen Polo](/ImageLibrary/images/Volkswagen/Split-Content/split-content-used-vw-polo.jpg?mode=max&upscale=true&width=340)
4. Volkswagen Polo (1.0 TSI Automatic)
Volkswagen Polo
Key Features:
- Digital Cockpit
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Wireless App-Connect
Interior and Space:
- Well-built with quality materials
- Spacious for its class, especially rear seats
- Clear, logical layout of controls
Fuel Economy: Up to 52.8 mpg (|WLTP consumption combined)
Technology:
- Digital Cockpit with customisable displays
- Optional IQ.DRIVE travel assist for semi-autonomous driving
Driving Experience:
- Refined and composed on the road
- Comfortable ride, especially on smaller wheels
- Easy and reassuring to drive, if not the most engaging
Running Costs:
- Efficient engines keep fuel costs down
- Fixed-price servicing plans available
- Good reliability record
Pros:
- Refined driving experience
- Spacious for its size
- Good build quality
Best for: Those seeking a practical, well-built small car with a mature feel and advanced tech features.
![Kia Picanto](/ImageLibrary/images/Kia/Retail/Master/Split%20Content/Kia-Picanto-Split-Content.jpg?mode=max&upscale=true&width=340)
5. Kia Picanto (1.0 Automatic)
Kia Picanto
Key Features:
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
Interior and Space:
- Simple, functional design
- Brilliant front space
- Good visibility due to large windows
Fuel Economy: Up to 54.3 mpg (WLTP consumption combined)
Technology:
- 4.2-inch supervision cluster in instrument panel
Driving Experience:
- Nimble in urban environments
- Light controls make it easy to drive
- Less comfortable on motorways
Running Costs:
- Very economical engines
- Low insurance groups
- 7-year/100,000-mile warranty
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Long warranty
- Easy to park and maneuver
Best for: City dwellers on a budget who want a new car with warranty peace of mind and good standard equipment.
Each of these small automatic cars offers a unique set of features and benefits. Whether you prioritise style, technology, safety, practicality, or value, there's an option to suit your needs. Consider test driving a few to see which best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
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