Which car to choose for the city: expert advice. Looking for the perfect city car The best family crossovers

Of course, you have heard: they say, this car is ideal for the city. Usually they say this about discreet small cars and the so-called "urban hatchbacks". However, no less, and perhaps even more, on our streets of conservative sedans and pretentious crossovers. Ask their owners if they think they need to change cars. At least 2/3 of them will answer in the negative. And nothing strange: Russia is not Europe, where economy and modesty are valued, various values ​​are relevant for our megacities.

Let's go analytically and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each of the classes of cars.

1.Class A-B urban hatchback- the same Fiat 500, Chevrolet Spark, Chery Kimo, Opel Corsa, Ford Fiesta, Seat Ibiza, Mini Cooper. The advantages of such machines are obvious: compactness and efficiency. Agile in heavy traffic, it will not cause unnecessary headaches - how to park, squeeze through where others "stand up". Having stumbled upon a traffic jam, it can easily turn around literally “on the spot” and go in a different direction in search of detours. Add to this a high (urban) landing and aquarium visibility ...

But if you take a closer look, it becomes clear that such machines are far from ideal. To begin with, for a comfortable and safe ride, they usually not enough power. If we assume a “charged” version like Fiat Abarth, then its cost will be simply astronomical - for the same money you can buy an impressive sedan ...

Do not forget that compactness is not always synonymous with safety - and even just the opposite. Same Chevrolet Spark or Daewoo Matiz can hardly be called a safety standard. Well, the more expensive Mini and Fiat 500 are again disproportionately more expensive and still do not stand up to price comparison with more solid cars of other classes. Such machines have versatility issues- as a rule, a modest trunk, a cramped rear row of seats and a not too comfortable suspension. After all, we do not have such a thing as city roads - a fatal hole can be caught both on a suburban highway and next to your own home. There is no escape from the facts: the bigger the car, the smoother it rides.

Another point - rather from the mental realm - compact cars are inevitably equated in the minds of a Russian person with women's. Only Mini managed to destroy this stereotype - and even then not completely ...

A little more practical in this regard are larger hatchbacks like the Seat Ibiza - there is more power and a more energy-intensive suspension. But - the reverse side of the coin - such jewelry compactness no longer exists. Needless to say, in order to save money and weight, cars are made of a metal that deforms at the slightest accident. Plastic crumbles, bumpers immediately fall off ...

2. Now look at the other pole - crossover. In recent years, this niche has been rapidly filling up - today, almost every self-respecting manufacturer has acquired a couple of crossovers in its range of models. The strength of this class of vehicles is strength and versatility. They go to the hypermarket for shopping, and to the country house, and to hunting and fishing, and to the office. That is, by definition, this is not quite a city car.

And what are the advantages in the metropolis? Well, take at least such a trifle: in order to load purchases, the back door does not need to be opened at all, most modern crossovers have glass that opens, making it easier to load. And you can upload as much as you can. In such a car comfortable for the driver, and passengers: the doors, as a rule, open wide, there is a lot of space. And already the power reserve under the foot - as a rule, everything is in order with this. A powerful engine allows you to install full-featured climate control, and plug-in or all-wheel drive adds confidence in winter operation.

Do not forget about such an important psychological factor as authority. Brutal-looking all-wheel drive cars attract attention with their dimensions and impressive appearance. SUV owners (or these SUVs themselves?) respect neighbors downstream(or a traffic jam?), and the possession of such a machine pours water on the mill of social status. And even if in snickering Europe, looking at the eccentrics who decided to buy a "jeep", at best they twist a finger to their temples (or look sympathetically, which is even worse), we have completely different roads. And this crazy winter with sudden thaws and Epiphany frosts ... And open hatches, and blondes who bought a driver’s license in the next row ... It doesn’t even need a crossover - a tank!

However, behind all these advantages looms traditional list of flaws: increased fuel consumption due to the large weight of the vehicle and all-wheel drive; considerable dimensions that make it difficult to maneuver and park - a solid road tax. And, importantly, the loss of feedback between the steering wheel and wheels, and ultimately the driver and the road. Yes, it is comfortable in such a car - potholes and ripples on the pavement are felt incomparably less than in a "passenger car". But it turns out such a ride without excitement ...

Besides, A crossover is not an SUV yet. Yes, he can climb the curb for parking without difficulty, drive around the traffic jam on the lawn, and will not shake lunch out of passengers on tram tracks and railway crossings. But on any serious off-road - it will dig in and save. But does it make sense to carry a lot of air with you and take up extra space on the lanes of already not the widest streets?
But if things are not going well with the practicality of compact cars and crossovers - these extreme poles of the automotive urbanist, maybe the classic sedans, to which the heart of Russians is so greedy, will become the golden mean.

3. And indeed, Class C and D cars- is still the best-selling group of cars in Russia. Combining the advantages of both classes of cars, they seem to be the ideal solution for Russia. Particularly beloved by Russians are sedans.

Arguments have been known for a long time: it’s warmer and more comfortable, and if the rear row of seats reclines, it’s generally good. In this segment - the widest choice, both in terms of price, and in terms of power, and in terms of additional equipment. Unlike crossovers, sedans significantly benefit in terms of "economical" indicators, and less weight does not "eat up" power, so the 110 hp formula. per 1 ton of weight most often works here.

Although such machines do not cause reverence for neighbors downstream, they do not cause humiliating ridicule either. In general, a completely neutral car. Of course, I would like all-wheel drive, but, as a rule, such cars are much more expensive - since a heavy-duty engine and many useful and not very functions are most often attached to the 4x4 wheel arrangement.

However, everything that has been said can be looked at from the other side: mid-size cars, devoid of extremes and choosing the “middle way”, because devoid of the virtues of each of the poles. They're not as compact or fuel efficient as compact hatchbacks, and can't climb curbs (unless, of course, it's an air-suspended Citroen), and the suspension is hard at work conveying the killer road profile to riders. Plus, paradoxically, a sedan is just harder to drive. It often happens that the dimensions and dimensions (not weight!) of cars are about the same, but in a sedan you sit low and, accordingly, visibility is worse, and in the city this plays an important role. On an SUV, you can look over the hood and see where and how you are driving. Especially when you're in a traffic jam, you can look over the traffic jam. It is very important.

"Cars for the city" - the concept is very vague. Everyone puts something into it. However, I still tried to choose the best small cars for driving in urban conditions.

By what criteria we selected the best cars for the city:

• compactness. The car must be small in size so that you can park even in very busy areas. Also, the size of the car affects its weight. And the lighter the car, the less fuel it consumes, which is also important in urban driving.
• economy. In our opinion, cars for the city should consume as little fuel as possible. Firstly, because today fuel is a rather expensive commodity. Secondly, economical cars pollute the environment less, which is especially important in big cities.
• Availability. The car must be affordable, both in terms of price and dealer availability. Unfortunately, some models of "urban" cars are very difficult to find in Ukraine. For example, we were unable to find either from official dealers or for such compacts as Mazda 2, Skoda Citigo, SEAT Mii and Volkswagen up.
• "Acknowledgement". We also paid attention to the positions of cars in foreign ratings. In particular, we took into account the test results of one of the most authoritative automotive publications in Europe - the British Auto Express.

TOP 10: cars for the city 2018

Toyota Aygo is not officially represented in Ukraine. This means that you will not find this car at the "legitimate" representatives of Toyota.

However, the Japanese "baby" can be found at "gray" dealers, or on. True, we must admit that there is not so much choice.

Aygo is interesting in that this car consumes very little fuel. A liter hatchback gasoline engine consumes an average of 4.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

You can find other economical cars in our rating:.

Peugeot 208 is another compact and economical car for the city. Today it is one of the smallest Peugeot models that can be bought in Ukraine (the French model range includes an even more compact hatchback - Peugeot 108).

In Ukraine, the Peugeot 208 is offered with a liter petrol engine, which consumes an average of 4.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

FL is another car that is not officially represented in Ukraine. However, it can be found on .

Rio FL is equipped with a 1.1-liter diesel engine, which consumes only 3.6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in a combined cycle - one of the best indicators among models that can be bought in Ukraine.

Do you want to buy the most economical city car? Then take a look at . This model is equipped with a 1.3-liter diesel engine, which in the combined cycle consumes only 3.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. You simply won't find a better indicator.

If you are not a fan of diesel cars, then Opel will offer you the Korsa with a liter gasoline engine, which consumes an average of 4.5 liters per 100 km.

Secondly, Sandero is one of the smallest Renault cars officially presented in ours.

Well, and thirdly, Renault Sandero is one of the most economical cars in the domestic market. With a 1.5-liter diesel engine, the hatchback consumes only 3.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

Also, the car is offered with a 0.9-liter gasoline engine, which consumes 5 liters of fuel per 100 km in the combined cycle.

Another good option from the “cars for the city” series is the hatchback.

In Ukraine, you can be offered a Polo with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine that consumes 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

Unfortunately, in Ukraine the smallest Volkswagen model - hatchback up - is not officially presented. It was also not possible to find this car at the "gray" dealers.

Citroen C3, first of all, attracts with its price. This is one of the cheapest hatchbacks in the Citroen lineup. In addition, he looks quite attractive.

The car is offered with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, which consumes 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 km in the combined cycle.

Another option for a relatively inexpensive and economical city car is.

In Ukraine, you will be offered a Fabia with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, which in the combined cycle will consume about 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

2. Fiat 500

Fiat 500 is one of the smallest and most stylish cars you can buy in Ukraine. At the same time, it costs less than, for example, the no less attractive Mini Cooper.

In Ukraine, the “500th” can be found with a 1.3-liter diesel engine, which will need only 4 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers.

Included in - according to the results of 2017, the American is in tenth place.

Ukrainian dealers offer a car with a liter EcoBoost gasoline engine, which will consume an average of 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

Most of those who buy a car are guided by approximately the same basic principle. It consists in paying less but getting more. Not in all situations it is possible to take a cheap one, but it is very high quality and, since such vehicles, by definition, cannot be overly affordable.

A much more correct decision is considered to be a choice in terms of price and quality. This includes cars that fully correspond to their value, while having excellent indicators of reliability, durability and reliability.

In total, several ratings of cars in terms of price and quality will be considered simultaneously. To begin with, we focus on the summary top, and also separately consider the lists of the most preferred cars of various age categories.

Consolidated rating

Let's start with the best cars in terms of price and quality, which have won worldwide recognition, and are currently positioned as the most acceptable options for buying.

• Hyundai Solaris. Many believe that this is the best budget car that has the best price-quality ratio. The new generation of Solaris was shown in Moscow, and production was established near St. Petersburg. Initially Solaris was offered as a sedan, and then a five-door hatchback appeared. Until now, the model is one of the best-selling cars in the country. The car is economical, well-assembled, albeit not very dynamic. But for a budget car, the Solaris packs the punch.
• Volkswagen Passat. If we take criteria such as price and quality as a basis, in 2019 this particular model is perceived by many experts as the best car. The German automaker has always enjoyed a reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality cars. The Passat has been around since 1973. Moreover, even representatives of the first generations have survived well to this day. Passat is in demand in the secondary market, but many dream of getting a brand new Passat. This is far from a budget model, but the funds invested in it are completely justified.
• Ford Focus. Far from the most expensive model, but it is difficult to attribute the Focus to the budget segment. If you choose the best car that is available in Russia, then in terms of price-quality ratio, Focus must be included in the rating. Currently, a restyled version of the latest generation is already on sale. Although a used Focus will also be a good purchase.
• Nissan Qashqai. When it comes to really good cars among compact crossovers, the highest priority models in terms of such parameters as price and quality are rightfully considered Qashqai. Moreover, the first and second generation fall under these criteria. The new generation is preferable, since it is still a more recent car. But even in the secondary market, a representative of the first generation of the Qashqai model will be a rational choice.
• Kia Rio. Choosing among budget models, the Rio model manufactured by Kia will be practically the most optimal car at an affordable price and excellent quality. The car has been around for a long time, it sells great both on the secondary market. Motors have a solid resource, technical characteristics satisfy the majority of urban residents. At the same time, Rio is a fairly safe and maintainable machine that does not require complex and expensive maintenance.
• Toyota Camry. Representative of the European E-class. If we talk about cars of the category of about 2 million rubles, then this is practically the best car suitable for Russia. Parameters such as price and quality perfectly complement each other. Camry is a modern, high-tech, comfortable sedan option for families, business people and young drivers. The car impresses with its versatility. Until now, Camry of the first generations is actively sold on the secondary market, proving its high quality and exemplary motor resource.
• Mitsubishi ASX. Its rightful place among the top 10 best cars in terms of price-quality ratio was given to a compact urban crossover from the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi. It is difficult to meet negative comments about this car, although many blame the ASX for being too similar to the Lancer X. Considering the use of global design on all the new products of the automaker, such a claim looks at least strange. All auto companies practice a similar approach to creating appearance. ASX is available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, demonstrating excellent cross-country ability. Although, to a greater extent, this crossover is focused on urban operation.
• Volkswagen Polo. When it comes to which car is best to choose for an affordable price and excellent quality, many experts and ordinary motorists will most likely remember the Polo from Volkswagen first. This is a car of an excellent build level, which can be taken in a top-end configuration for less than 1 million rubles. An example of how high-quality cars can be made even in the most budget category.
• Renault Logan. If you are interested in not only quality, but also a very low price, but do not know which car would be better to buy, take a look at Logan. It costs even less than the Polo, but does not have the most stylish and modern appearance. This is an excellent workhorse that requires a minimum investment in operation. Repair costs a penny, a lot of repair and restoration work can be easily done with your own hands. If appearance is not the main thing for you, then Renault Logan is definitely worth your attention.
• Skoda Octavia. It's not as cheap a car as the Octavia used to be. You won’t be able to find such a car in a car dealership for less than 1 million rubles. But Octavia still confidently and deservedly enters the ranking among the best cars in terms of price and quality. And some believe that the Skoda Octavia should top this list. Objectively, the model has a wide list of advantages with a minimum number of disadvantages. As a result, the car boasts excellent endurance, durability of the body, efficiency, compliance with strict environmental standards. Plus, the car is extremely practical, roomy, has a huge luggage compartment.

All presented models are high-quality, reliable, durable and have a high level of operational practicality. If you are looking for a decent option in 2019 among new or used cars, be sure to take a closer look at the options presented. Moreover, the rating included cars for every taste and budget, ranging from budget and compact cars to solid sedans of the Toyota Camry level.

Top 5 among new cars

Each potential buyer of a new car has a different budget, and also has slightly different requirements for the vehicle they choose.

Based on the available funds, everyone is rightly interested in which car will be the most optimal in terms of price and quality. To meet the needs and needs of different categories of motorists, the top 5 includes models of various classes and price ranges.

• Mercedes C class. One of the best cars in the world, which represents the European C class. In its price segment, this is an objectively excellent car. Yes, it is quite expensive, but the price is fully justified by the technical characteristics, build level, ergonomics, reliability, engine durability, dynamics and especially the suspension. Chassis at the highest level. Even a run of more than 100 thousand kilometers on Russian roads does not allow loosening the suspension. Only shock absorbers will be replaced. But only on condition that the driver adheres to an aggressive driving style, or drives on the worst roads.
• Honda Civic. When choosing a car based on such parameters as price and quality, many simply do not know which car they should buy. Many will recommend choosing the latest generation of the Japanese Honda Civic. This is a legendary model that has gained an impeccable reputation over the long years of its existence. Separately, it is worth noting the excellent body, which is made of high quality materials and has undergone a complex galvanizing procedure. As a result, rust will not become a problem in the next 10-15 years for sure.
• Infiniti Q70. Be sure to allocate a place in the ranking and representative. One of these is the Q70 produced by Nissan's luxury division. This Infiniti model features exemplary handling that doesn't degrade even after 200,000 kilometers. There is no need to even talk about the level of equipment, ergonomics, and the quality of materials. It's an Infiniti. Plus, the Q70 is characterized by exemplary efficiency, which is not demonstrated by competitors.
• Hyundai Solaris. He is a premium car moving into the category of budget models. Solaris is definitely worth the money. This is one of the most attractive options that you can take in the salon of an official dealer, paying less than 1 million rubles. The money will definitely not be spent in vain. The quality is surprising in many respects at this level of cost. Many expect that Solaris will literally crumble and demand more and more money for repairs every year. But operating experience shows that this does not happen.
• Volkswagen Polo. If Solaris and Kia Rio have a worthy competitor, then this is only Volkswagen's Polo Sedan. Surprisingly budget car of the German brand, designed specifically for the Russian market. It combines reliability, excellent build quality, economy and practicality. It's not a Passat-level sedan, but the Polo Sedan's pricing is completely different.

What to choose from this list, everyone decides for himself individually. This list of possible options is by no means limited. But the presented cars proved that they are rightly considered the best and deserve attention from potential buyers.

Rating among cars 4-5 years old

Sometimes a car enthusiast will choose a used car about 4-5 years old, but in an excellent configuration, from a leading manufacturer and more solid models than representatives of the budget category, but from a car dealership and without a run.

• Subaru Forester. If you are looking for a good car that is already 4-5 years old, and at the same time you do not mind getting an interesting and practical crossover, then the Subaru Forester is definitely worth a look. The model has an enviable ground clearance (clearance) for many competitors, good engines, excellent handling and solid performance. Subject to proper and timely maintenance, the machine will confidently serve for at least another 5-10 years before the first really serious malfunctions appear.
• Toyota RAV4. For those who are intimidated by Subaru's difficult-to-maintain engines, take a look at one of the most popular SUVs in the world from another Japanese manufacturer, Toyota. The most popular version was the RAV4 with a 2.0-liter engine producing 150 horsepower. Optimal balance between price, quality, reliability, efficiency and dynamics. If you believe the reviews of car owners, then the RAV4 received one of the most indestructible chassis. Keep in mind that RAV4 traditionally loses value slowly in the secondary market.
• Volkswagen Golf. For fans of hatchbacks and station wagons, there is a great option in the face of the Volkswagen Golf, which is actively sold on the secondary market. Moreover, taking a car for 4-5 years is not at all scary if you check the history and make sure that the previous owner has properly maintained the car. Golf approximately 2013-2015 of release received at one time an excellent automatic transmission, which confidently passes at least 150 thousand kilometers. The body is durable, not afraid of corrosion.
• Toyota Prius. In many ways, an underestimated car in the post-Soviet space, which has extremely reliable and durable hybrid power plants. If you stop being afraid of hybrid cars and get yourself a used Prius, you will understand why this car is sold in such huge quantities around the world.
• Volkswagen Touran. If you are looking for a good family car with increased capacity, with a high level of comfort and safety for quite adequate money, be sure to take a closer look at the Volkswagen Touran. The machine only needs to change all consumables and working fluids on time. The automatic transmission serves superbly, and it is generally impossible to kill the mechanics. You should not take a complete set with a DSG box if you want to significantly save on the maintenance and repair of this car.

The reliability and durability of the car depends not only on the initial quality of the vehicle, but also on how it was treated and how well it was cared for and maintained.

Best options 7-8 years old

Many are afraid to buy cars in the secondary market, the age of which is rapidly approaching the psychological mark of 10 years. But there are several vivid examples proving that even 7-8 years is not a sentence for a car, and it will be able to confidently serve at least as much more.

• Nissan Micra. For some, not the most straightforward option. Still, the Nissan Micra deserves a place in this ranking as one of the best compact urban hatchbacks. Moreover, to a greater extent, Micra is focused specifically on. Japanese engineers at one time managed to create an extremely successful project. As a result, the car costs a little, but it demonstrates exemplary indicators of quality and reliability. A compact Japanese hatchback can easily cover about 400 thousand kilometers, but still does not require a major overhaul. Considering the conditions under which the Micra is used, in the secondary market you can find a model with low mileage and in excellent condition.
• Toyota Corolla. The Japanese bestseller, which must be included in the ranking of the best used and new cars, regardless of age. But the Corolla is good because it is very reliable and hardy. Killing such a car is extremely difficult. Not surprisingly, Toyota Corolla prices in the secondary market are falling very slowly. Feel free to buy this model, even if it is more than 7-8 years old.
• Honda Accord. A worthy option for fans of more solid and large sedans. Although the Accord is also presented in a station wagon. There are coupe versions with 3 doors. But the most popular was the five-door sedan. Accord has many advantages and reasons to be in your garage. But when buying a car 7-8 years old, be sure to study the history and look at the previous owner. Accords are often bought by young guys who like to step on the gas and squeeze all the horsepower out of the Honda engine. You should not take Accord from such sellers. If the car was in the possession of a family person, then for sure there will be no problems with wear and tear even after 7-8 years of operation.
• Mitsubishi Pajero and Pajero Sport. Large, solid, powerful and dynamic crossovers of the Japanese brand, which conquered the Russian market literally immediately after their debut. 7-8 years for Pajero is not age. With proper operation and proper care, such machines live for 15-20 years before the appearance of any serious malfunctions or the need for an overhaul of the engine.
• Toyota Yaris. Closes the current rating is another compact urban hatchback from the Japanese automaker. The machine has exemplary handling, reliability and quality, not inferior to the Corolla. This car is purely for the city. At the same time, Yaris is equally well suited for drivers of any gender and age. You just need to choose the right color.

Rating of the best 10-year-old cars

The ratio of price and quality does not cease to be a relevant criterion when choosing even a car that is 10 years old.

Some are afraid to buy cars with such mileage, preferring more recent models. But if you come across one of the following models in good condition and richly equipped, with a small investment, you can get a really cool car.

• Toyota Camry. An indestructible model that has been and remains incredibly in demand around the world. The age of 10 years for the Camry is completely indicative. Surely you will be able to get a Camry in the 50th body. An extremely successful project with a lot of advantages. Yes, Camry problems occur, but usually not earlier than after 250-300 thousand kilometers.
• Mazda 6. One of the best used Japanese cars in the world. Although nothing can be argued against the new generation Mazda 6. Mazda 6 is characterized by a modern design that remains relevant even after 10 years. Such a machine does not require constant visits to a car service or large investments in maintenance. Just change all consumables in a timely manner, monitor the condition of the main components. Then your Mazda 6 will last another 10 years.
• Kia Sorento. A fairly large and interesting Korean-made crossover. One of the best SUV options that you can get for less than 500-600 thousand rubles in the secondary market. If you think that 10 years of operation is the limit for Sorento, this is a serious mistake. Kia has managed to create an amazingly durable drivetrain. The motors are not exemplary, but with proper maintenance, they will definitely pass their minimum of 300-350 thousand kilometers.
• Renault Megane. If the budget is limited, but you need to take the most practical car about 10 years old, Renault Megane will be a good solution. Yes, there are many claims to modern French cars. But Megane cars of those years are not among them. This is objectively a very successful project, which is still in high demand. If you choose between Megane 10 years and Logan 4-5 years of operation, priority will be on the side of the first.
• Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe. It is still difficult to draw any conclusions about how the new generations of Santa Fe and Tucson will feel after 10 years of operation. But the generations preceding them have already passed such a long period in practice, and have clearly proven excellent quality, a high level of reliability and exemplary maintainability. In terms of price and quality, these are, which are not scary to take even when they reach the age of 10. You can safely count on at least another 5 years of confident operation.

Buying a new car or a used one depends on a number of factors. But let's be objective. Some cars that are already 5-10 years old look much more preferable than a number of new cars at the same cost.

Buying a car for the city is an important event in the life of every person. Choosing the car of your dreams, the main thing is not to make a mistake. Before buying a car, it is important to determine which model is suitable for city roads, what fuel consumption. Before going to a car dealership, make a list of characteristics that a car should have for urban conditions.

Domestic or foreign auto industry?

How big should a city car be?

For city roads, a small car is suitable. Oversized models are not very convenient in urban areas, especially when parking. Microcars have a number of advantages, they are more maneuverable than large models. They use less fuel, one refueling is enough for a week.

Hatchback is a universal transport for the city. It is compact and maneuverable and easy to park in a small yard. As a family car, you should choose a sedan. It is suitable for both city roads and highways. It does not tolerate bad roads well, due to the soft suspension. You can choose a family car in the catalog https://riga.altera-auto.ru/. If you have a large family, you should give preference to station wagons.

Automatic or "mechanics"?

For trips in densely populated regions and large cities, it is better to purchase a car with an automatic transmission. It is convenient at intersections and traffic lights. The machine itself monitors the engine speed and adjusts to them. For small settlements, "mechanics" is suitable. A manual gearbox allows you to "rock" the car when it gets into a snowdrift or mud. The fuel consumption of a car with "mechanics" is less.

What is the engine size?

For a trip exclusively on city roads, models with a small volume of 1.2-1.6 liters are suitable. This engine will save fuel when you are stuck in a traffic jam. For trips out of town, you should choose models with an engine capacity of 1.8-2.5 liters.

Rear or front wheel drive?

If you are a beginner, it is better to give preference to front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. They make it easier to drive on bad roads, it will be easier to get out of a snowdrift or mud.

Diesel or gasoline?

Diesel engines are more economical and durable, but have a number of negative characteristics:

• increased noise;
• problems with starting at sub-zero temperatures;
• cost of maintenance.

Gasoline engines are not so demanding on fuel quality, they are better adapted to high-speed driving. Service and maintenance are cheaper.

Active and passive safety?

The active safety system has a whole range of systems that help to avoid emergency situations. Includes: anti-lock braking system, emergency braking system, lane tracking. The passive system is activated during an accident. Safety belts and airbags, head restraints help to avoid injuries.

Which brand of car to choose?

There is no definite answer to this question. Each brand has both strengths and weaknesses. Japanese cars are reliable, but inexpensive models may have cheap plastic in the cabin. German models are convenient and comfortable, spare parts for them are not cheap. French cars differ in design, but the reliability of the suspension and gearbox often suffers. American models run well on 92 petrol, parts and repairs are expensive.

Buying a car is no easy task. It is necessary to treat the choice responsibly and prudently. You should not make impulsive decisions, you need to choose from the standpoint of convenience, your own driving style and taking into account the goals of operation. There is no universal model for everyone, you need to choose the car that will meet individual requirements.

The supercompact segment is currently well stocked, if not oversaturated. This is good news for those who are looking for a vehicle of this kind, as they will have hundreds of models to choose from. Another plus is the incredibly high standards due to fierce competition. To compete successfully in its class, a small car must be as comfortable as possible on the freeway and in the city, offer a decent amount of equipment, enough trunk space for daily purchases, and an attractive interior so as not to blush when giving a neighbor or work colleague a lift. And, of course, the car should have an affordable price.

To help you find the right small car, we've rounded up the top ten options, as well as the one you should avoid.

This model has long bridged the gap between subcompacts and mini MPVs, and the latest version continues the tradition. It offers class-leading space and practicality, is easy to handle and inexpensive in terms of running costs, and in terms of reliability and durability, it can outlive its owner. Annoyingly, the ride is quite hard and boring. The best version, in our opinion, is 1.3 i-VTEC SE.

Inexpensive and practical, the Clio remains a popular choice for many Renault fans. There are plenty of ways to personalize this stylish hatchback, and while it lags a bit behind stronger contenders like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo when it comes to driving comfort, the fuel-efficient and efficient diesel engine will satisfy most buyers. The cabin is spacious enough, but a lot of hard plastic in the interior makes it look cheap. Our choice: 1.5 DCI 90 engine, Dynamique Media Nav version.

A great little car with a high quality interior - a true thoroughbred Audi on a small scale. It has a good range of engines in the power lineup and offers a pleasant driving experience. Upgrade to the five-door Sportback and you can carry a couple of large adults in the back, although there are more practical options for that. Our choice: 1.4 TFSI 125 engine, Sport version.

If you want a truly high-end supermini, then you should love this little one. The super-compact hatchback offers a stylish exterior, high-tech interior and plenty of personalization options. In addition, you will have a choice of other body styles, larger or smaller sizes, engines, and more. Our choice: 1.5T engine, Chili version (5 doors).

This is a high quality urban compact. It got a stylish interior, a smart look on the outside, and a decent price for it all. Don't put it aside when you see the price, if only because of the wide choice of engines, trim options and trim levels, ensuring there's something for every buyer. Our advice is to avoid the more expensive high-end models and stick with the economical 1.2-litre petrol engine in the Match version.

Rio always offers generous helpings of practicality, equipment and competitive pricing, and the latest 2017 update adds a ton of improvements. Highlights are peppy turbocharged engines and plenty of modern technology, including a great touchscreen infotainment system and automatic emergency braking. Our choice: version 2 with 1.0 T-GDi 99 engine.

If you're looking for a small car that maximizes interior space, then the Hyundai i20 should definitely be on your list. It dwarfs nearly every other car in its class in terms of roominess, and we're willing to forgive some shortcomings like the cheap interior because of that. It's good value for money, and the turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine we recommend is punchy and refined. Our choice: 1.0 T-GDi 100 engine, Turbo Edition.

Probably, there is no person who has not heard about this car. And only the good. The materials and build quality are top notch, the model is affordable and cheap to run - our favorite version averages about 4.7 liters of fuel in official tests. It's a very practical machine that holds its resale value well and performs well in tight alleys as well as on the open road. Our choice: 1.2 TSI 90 engine, SE version.

The famous Fiesta is one of the best-selling models in European countries, and it's easy to see why. The car is a pleasure to drive, dealers offer enticing discounts, and its punchy Ecoboost petrol engines are quiet and fuel-efficient. The interior trim of the latest Fiesta models looks upmarket for this class, and the touchscreen infotainment system is loaded with modern features. Our choice: 1.0T 100 Ecoboost 140 engine, ST-Line version (5 doors).

It's arguably the best small car on the market - it doesn't have any major weaknesses. Not only does this car ride great and it's roomy inside, but even the underpowered 94bhp version of the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine pulls furiously from the lowest revs. The Skoda Fabia may be cheaper to buy and maintain, but the Ibiza holds its resale price better. If you are looking for a practical, affordable and trendy supermini, feel free to take this car for a test drive. Our choice: 1.0 TSI 95 engine, FR version.

Which compact car is better not to buy?

The car is very stylish, exotic and attractive in its own way, but it is far behind the best representatives of its class in various areas (space, comfort, handling, power, interior decoration, etc.), therefore, to recommend this device for purchase, we will not. Only if you are an adherent of Italian beauty and grace, which, with all the other shortcomings, does not prevent him from having his own huge audience of fans.