6. Volkswagen Polo 1.0 MPI 80 Life – £20,075. (Group 3.) Lowest insurance quote: £305.51
The Polo comes with a breadth of ability that most supermini makers wouldn’t even aim for, never mind achieve. There’s a price premium to pay, but with its reassuring road manners, rounded blend of performance, drivability, economy and refinement, it can justify being one of the more expensive choices in its class.
7. Dacia Sandero 1.0 Essential TCe 5dr – £12,995. (Group 4.) Lowest insurance quote: £304.16
Still praised as one of the cheapest cars on sale, the Sandero lives up to its reputation as the cheapest car in this group. Despite this, it’s remarkably likeable, with enough interior flourishes and creature comforts to make it habitable. The engines have plenty of shove in the mid-range, too, making it easy to drive around town.
