4. Hyundai i10 - Best city cars

Running a city car no longer means putting up with an unrefined buzz box – and the Hyundai i10 proves it. With its current generation i10 city car the Korean brand dramatically boosted refinement and space inside the five-door body, bucking the trend for personalisation options and instead offering a grown-up, spacious and good value compact hatch.

Unlike the Skoda Citigo, it’s only available in five-door form, showing its focus on usability. But with solid build quality and some decent materials inside, it feels more upmarket than ever.

It’s a shame there’s not more advanced equipment on offer, but at least the engine technology under the bonnet gives good results. There’s a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder – both petrols. The small engine offers better efficiency and enough performance for day-to-day driving, while it’s also nicely refined for a three-pot.

It’s lower, longer and wider than its predecessor, so the i10 offers almost as much space as a supermini, with practicality and a driving experience to make you feel like you’re in a larger, more expensive car. The ride is refined and the i10 handles well, even if it isn’t the sharpest driving car in its class.

There’s a good range of trim levels to choose from, including the entry-level S and top-spec Premium SE models. However, it’s the mid-range SE version that offers the best balance of equipment and price, with air conditioning, electric windows, cruise control and USB connectivity standard.

Best city cars

1. 1. VW up!
2. 2. Skoda Citigo
3. 3. Kia Picanto
4. 4. Hyundai i10
5. 5. Vauxhall Viva
6. 6. Toyota Aygo
7. 7. SEAT Mii
8. 8. Renault Twingo
9. 9. Citroen C1/Peugeot 108
10. 10. Suzuki Celerio