Best small automatic car under 5000

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There was a time when small cars with automatic gearboxes were expensive and compromised, and it wasn't all that long ago. Often they had very sluggish gearboxes, were much thirstier than manual cars and many weren't very reliable. Now, though, automatic gearboxes are much less likely to go wrong, a lot nicer to drive and don't have as much of a negative impact on performance and economy. The advent of small hybrid and small electric cars has also brought many more easy-to-drive automatic offerings, and small automatic cars are perfect for city living or for those who want a relaxed driving experience. Our list of the best small automatic cars includes traditional 'torque converter' automatics, dual-clutch automatics and CVT automatics.

Best small automatic car under 5000

As with any used car, a thorough inspection and test drive is highly recommended. There are plenty of deals to be had within this price bracket and you can afford to be a little more choosy than you would with a cheaper car. Bide your time and seek out solid examples with a decent service history and a fresh MOT — this should offer some peace of mind, helping you avoid cars which are past their prime or require significant work. For years, the Prius was the only hybrid worth buying and Toyota cornered the market as a result. Now, if you want a cheap hybrid, the model is still pretty much the only option worth considering. But there are lower-mileage examples available, especially if you buy privately or settle for an entry-level T3, although the T4 is significantly better equipped. All Priuses had a 1. While everyone is clamouring to buy a Ford Fiesta , the Mazda 2 exists quietly in the background. There was a stream of high-spec limited-edition 1. But a 3. You might have to search a bit to find your ideal third-generation Honda CR-V for five grand, because these cars are sought after and many of those available within this budget are Mk2 editions built between and Expect typical Honda reliability, although steering racks can fail and so can air-con compressors. Dean has been part of the Auto Express team for more than 20 years, and has worked across nearly all departments, starting on magazine production, then moving to road tests and reviews. He's our resident van expert, but covers everything from scooters and motorbikes to supercars and consumer products.

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Using a combination of owner feedback, reliability ratings, average transaction prices and expertise from Forbes Wheels staff, we compiled a list of 20 good candidates for shoppers on a budget. We prioritized models with good reliability scores and low costs of ownership. With older vehicles, buying from a private party can sometimes yield more value than shopping at a dealership. For more guidance on how to arrange those inspections and where to buy a car in this price range, see our FAQ below the list. It has an excellent reliability record and returns up to 31 mpg combined. First-generation models and are a little cheaper than later ones but slightly less reliable. While not necessarily exciting to drive or look at, being one step below a Lexus means nice features and interior materials. These years cover two generations of Avalon, though all are good choices.

Best small automatic car under 5000

Buying a used car shouldn't feel like pulling teeth. If you know what to look for, it should be easy to get yourself behind the wheel of something good for the right price. That's more affordable than even the cheapest new car available this year , but affordability sometimes has its risks. At this price, cars will likely have racked up a bunch of miles or be old enough to have been around before ads on YouTube, but that's par for the course. Come and embrace the warm glow of depreciation and look for something that's both great and affordable—even if it takes an hour to vacuum after it arrives in your driveway. Like a gourmet grilled-cheese sandwich, the Acura TSX was an ordinary luxury. It shared much of its bits and pieces with its cousin, the Honda Accord, but the first-generation TSX had more where it counted.

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Find used Audi A1 cars for sale. We reckon the best small automatic cars right now are hybrids like the Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris. Bar the rather plasticky cabin and a ride that's on the firm side, there's plenty to like. Latest Citroen C1 deals. Examples featuring the Powershift automatic gearbox aren't as common as manual models, but there's still plenty to choose from. The Fiesta was a bestseller for good reason, with this previous-gen model arguably marking the height of its career. That makes the Hyundai i20 automatic pretty affordable, and the dual-clutch gearbox is pretty good overall. Increased demand results in increased supply and there are many good options to choose from, even used. It has a supple ride and a well-finished interior that mimics the larger Volkswagen Golf. Subscribe to our newsletter Subscribe to What Car? Find used Hyundai i10 cars for sale. Find a used Fiat

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Find a used Seat Mii. The Vauxhall Corsa has always been oh-so-sensible, with buyers going for its keen pricing and easy driving experience. Honda Jazz - Weaknesses Hard interior plastics Low speed ride could be better Shortage of advanced safety kit. Now, if you want a cheap hybrid, the model is still pretty much the only option worth considering. To get the Hyundai i20 as an automatic you don't need to opt for a high-spec trim level or the more powerful engine — it's available across the range. We found: Audi A1 1. We found: Ford Fiesta 1. Find a used Ford Fiesta. Any suggestions Often they had very sluggish gearboxes, were much thirstier than manual cars and many weren't very reliable. Again, the DSG automatic gearbox is only available with the PS engine, but at least you can combine this pairing with one of the more affordable trim levels. Find a used Skoda Fabia. Car of the Year in Used car deals.