Much as many of us would probably love to splash out £20 million on a coachbuilt Rolls-Royce or park a £1.7m Rimac hypercar in our garage, the reality is a lot more mundane for most folk.
For most motorists, mainstream motors from big brands like Ford, BMW and Vauxhall are the order of the day when it comes to a new car. But with even regular superminis now costing north of £20,000 it can seem that even run-of-the-mill models are out of reach for many drivers.
A good quality used car is always an option for those on a budget but if you want the service and support that comes with a brand new model there are still choices that won’t break the bank.
Here we've rounded up the 10 cheapest new cars on sale in 2021.
1. Dacia Sandero, from £7,995
Ever since its launch in 2016, the Sandero has been the UK’s cheapest new car. A brand new version has recently been launched which brings sharper styling, modern engines and more technology but this compact hatchback retains its title as the most affordable new car in the country. Basic Access cars lack much in the way of equipment and come with a non-turbo 64bhp petrol engine but higher-spec cars get a better engine and comforts such as a stereo and air con for as little as nine grand. Photo: Dacia
2. Mitsubishi Mirage, from £10,580
Mitsubishi is best known for its pick-ups and 4x4s but it also produces a compact supermini that starts at just over £10,500. Updated at the start of 2020 the Mirage now a bolder looking, better equipped model than before and new technology has helped improve the 80bhp 1.2-litre engine’s efficiency to up to 56.5mpg. At 3.8 metres long it sits midway between the Picanto and something like a Toyota Yaris and Mitsubishi boasts that it’s designed for the city with the tightest turning circle in its class. Photo: Mitsubishi
3. MG3, from £12,495
Once famous for sports cars, the MG brand is now all about budget motoring. Its ZS and HS SUVs, plus the all-electric ZS and MG5 EVs are its bread and butter but for those looking for something smaller and cheaper, the MG3 is a compact hatchback that won’t break the bank. It’s a similar size to the Sandero and the extra cost brings extra features such as an eight-inch smartphone compatible touchscreen and rear parking sensors. The range is kept simple with two trims, both costing less than £15k and one 1.5-litre petrol engine. Photo: MG
4. Kia Picanto, from £11,200
The Picanto is the smallest car in Kia’s line-up but manages to feel like a much bigger vehicle thanks to its decent build quality, comfortable interior and solid on-road manners. At its entry price the ‘1’ trim lacks the big-car tech of fancier versions but its 1.0-litre engine is punchy enough and returns nearly 59mpg, and the basic package is a strong one, backed by a seven-year warranty. Photo: Kia