Small cars and superminis make up 20 per cent of the total new car market in Ireland and the choice offered can be somewhat bewildering. In the first of a four-part series, Paddy Comynunravels what you need to know
OPEL CORSA
Price: €15,450-€28,995
NCAP Crash Test: * * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6 turbo, 1.3D
Trim Levels: Life, Club, Design, SXI, OPC
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
While previous versions of the Corsa had tended to feel a little tinny, the current Corsa is a markedly different car, with a much more upmarket look and feel. Even lower spec models don't look like bargain basement cars and as you go up the range, which many owners are now doing, there are some handsome trim options. The engine range is well known and well tested.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
The lower power petrol engines do struggle a little as the Corsa has grown quite considerably, so avoid the 60hp 1.0-litre model if you can.
The 80bhp 1.2-litre fares a little better but still struggles a bit at times. Much better are the 1.3-litre diesel engines, which come with either 75bhp and 89bhp, and these are frugal yet feel powerful.
The 90bhp 1.4-litre petrol is about right for the car as regards petrol engines. At the top of the range, the 1.6-litre turbo found in the OPC is serious fun.
AT THE WHEEL: * * * *
This is where the Corsa has impressed so many commentators and buyers alike. Not only does the cabin feel much better than before, it is also much more spacious than before.
To drive, the Corsa feels very competent. It offers a nice blend between a comfortable car and a lively chassis.
You can choose between a standard set-up or a slightly firmer arrangement as found in the SXi model.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * * *
Both the three- and five-door are spacious, with the five-door obviously more useful as family transport. The ride comfort is particularly impressive and even in the SXi model, it is not too extreme. The luggage space of 285 litres is good and this can expand out to 1,100 litres.
SAFETY: * * *
It scored five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, the minimum amount of airbags is two and increases to six on some models. ESP is a €500 option.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
This car will be cheap to run, with both the petrol and diesel engines proving themselves to be frugal. However, the Corsa has not always enjoyed the best record when it comes to depreciation, and this is an area where they will have to improve.
CONCLUSIONS:
FOR:Cute looks, generous space and nice blend between handling and ride comfort.
AGAINST:The 1-litre petrol engine struggles a little, rear visibility could be better.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Deserves its place at the top of the supermini pile.
BEST BUY: 1.3 CDTi.
TOYOTA YARIS
Price: €15,990-€22,670
NCAP Crash Test: * * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.0, 1.3, 1.8, 1.4D
Trim Levels: Luna, Sol, Sol Lux, Terra, Strata, T-Sport
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
It is almost a cliché at this stage to talk about Toyotas and their reliability, but the fact that they score so well in customer satisfaction reports indicates that it is a reputation that is well founded. The Yaris might not feel as plush as some rivals, but it will all work perfectly.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
Few people buy the Yaris to tear up the highway, but the engine range is willing enough. The 1-litre 67bhp unit is the most popular and while not fast, it is incredibly frugal.
The 1.3-litre petrol and 1.4-litre diesel engines are much peppier, with the diesel in particular deserving special mention. At the top of the range is a 1.8-litre diesel with 131bhp.
AT THE WHEEL: * * *
The interior of the Yaris is a little unconventional. The centrally mounted digital instruments can be hard to read and you sit very upright in the car, but this will suit older owners. The steering does not adjust for reach, only height. There isn't really anything exciting about piloting the Yaris either, but it is comfortable and safe.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * *
While the Yaris is shorter than some of its rivals, the high roofline allows for generous interior space and the 272-litre luggage capacity is generous. The Yaris can feel a little unsettled at times and the three-cylinder 1-litre engine's growl can grate a little on long journeys.
SAFETY: * * * *
It scored five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, and all cars get at least twin front and side airbags. Luna and Sol models also have curtain shield and driver's knee airbags.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
This is probably one of the best cars to buy in this class if you want to minimise depreciation. Demand for the car and its reputation for reliability keeps residuals strong. All engines are frugal, especially the diesel, and the only time you should be in the garage is for scheduled servicing.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Reliability, clever packaging, frugal engines, strong residuals.
AGAINST:Engine sound can be grating, staid image.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Not an exciting choice, but a very shrewd one: the Yaris is an educated buy at this level, if not a passionate one.
BEST BUY: 1.3 VVTi Luna.
FORD FIESTA
Price: €14,755-€27,000
NCAP Crash Test: * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.25, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 2.0, 1.4D
Trim Levels: Finesse, Argento, Steel II, Ghia, ST
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * *
There is no escaping the fact that against newer rivals the Fiesta is starting to show its age a little, but it still feels like a very solidly built car. Fiesta owners are rather a happy bunch too, if customer surveys such as JD Power are anything to go by.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
The 1.25-litre engine is the default choice for most buyers, and its 75bhp is enough for most customers. It is fine around town and willing enough on the motorways too. The 1.3-litre engine has less power and is an older unit, so is best avoided.
The diesel 1.4-litre has 68bhp, but offers much better torque and feels a lot more urgent. The 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines offer more pep. The 1.4-litre can be ordered with a clutchless manual gearbox called Durashift. At the top of the range is the 150bhp 2-litre ST version, which is a hoot.
AT THE WHEEL: * * *
The Fiesta, even though it is ending its current life, remains one of the best handling cars around and this makes even the lowly models very entertaining to drive. The downside of this is that some might find the ride a little firm.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * * *
The steering wheel adjusts for height only, but it is not short on space for passengers or luggage.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * *
It remains a top seller and has strong residual value because of its strong reputation, probably bettered only by the Toyota Yaris. Running costs are reasonable, with frugal engines and average service costs.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Strong reputation, good driving dynamics, space and ease of use.
AGAINST:Ageing a little, costs, vocal engines.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:No longer a class leader, but still a safe choice despite its age. Likely to remain a favourite.
BEST BUY:1.25 Steel II.
MINI RANGE
Price: €21,350-€33,890
NCAP Crash Test: * * * * *
Seats: 4
Doors: 3
Engines: 1.4, 1.6, 1.6D
Trim Levels: One, Cooper, Cooper S
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
This car does not disappoint on the level of quality. There is also a big improvement on some of the issues that blighted the previous version. However, some of the switchgear still feels a little low grade. Most owners are happy ones.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
The entry-level One is now a 1.4-litre with 94bhp and it is adequate if not exactly fun. Choose the 118bhp Cooper or the 170bhp Cooper S for more fun. The 1.6-litre diesel has 108bhp and is frugal.
AT THE WHEEL: * * * *
It is great fun to drive, although the ride can feel a little harsh in town and on poor surfaces, especially if you go for the better-looking larger alloy wheels. The go-kart driving position is celebrated by most, and thankfully the seats are better than before. The controls are more stylish than functional.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * *
Again, there is a little bit of a style over substance issue. Room in the front is fine, but the rear seats are very limited and the 160-litre boot is much smaller than rivals, but this is a car that is about fun more than function. Larger alloys on the sportier version do spoil the ride a little.
SAFETY: * * * *
It scored the full five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests and all models get front, side and head airbags. Stability control is an option on all models.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * * *
This is probably one of the lowest depreciating cars you can buy - there really is no such thing as a cheap used one.
The new 1.4-litre One is frugal, as is the diesel, but the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions beg to be driven a little harder.
Servicing costs can be reduced with service packs bought in advance.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Very cute, superb fun, amazing residuals.
AGAINST:Very expensive - especially when you spec higher. Cramped rear. Firm ride.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Sells incredibly well despite its high price, but it is easy to see why.
BEST BUY:1.6 Cooper
PEUGEOT 107
Price: €11,865 - €14,095
NCAP Crash Test: * * * *
Seats: 4
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.0
Trim Levels: S, SE, SE Sport
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
Since it is identical to the Aygo, we must presume it will be of equal quality. Since most people seem to be favouring the Toyota though, oddly it is likely that the Aygo will hold its value marginally better. You can tell that there are shortcuts in these models to save on weight and price, but the overall feel is of a well put together small car.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
Like the Aygo, there is only one engine option and that is the 3-cylinder 67bhp 1.0-litre engine. 0-100km/h takes 14.2 seconds and there is a top speed just shy of 160km/h. This is plenty in this size of car and it's perfect for nipping around town. There is a semi-automatic gearbox available on the SE model, called 2-Tronic.
AT THE WHEEL: * * *
Like the Aygo, the steering could be a little faster, and this sometimes makes the car feel slow to respond but you can tell it has been geared towards easy town driving, rather than back road belting. The ride is a little on the firm side at times. The cabin is straightforward and the driving position is surprisingly good.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * *
There is adequate room for four adults, but they will struggle a little with luggage as the 139-litre boot is only really suitable for small amounts of shopping, although you can fold down the seats to improve this a little.
SAFETY: * * *
Driver and passenger front airbags are standard on entry-level 107 models, with side airbags on SE models upwards. Scored four stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests - not bad for a car of its size.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
A very cheap car to run, with an impressive 4.6l/100km returned by the perky little 3-cylinder engine. The purchase price is cheap too, but the Fiat Panda offers better value for money.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Good engine, cute looks, good quality.
AGAINST:Ride could be better at times.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:A fun little car. Charming and well made.
BEST BUY:1.0 SE.
VW POLO
Price: €15,870-€28,815
NCAP Crash Test: * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.2, 1.4, 1.4D, 1.8 T
Trim Levels: Comfortline, AC
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * *
Doesn't score that highly in the reliability surveys, despite the brand having a perception of quality with most people.
There is a solid feel to the car, but the finish in the interior does feel a little spartan and lacks the soft-touch feel of some of its newer rivals.
Expect to see an all-new model in late 2008 which will bring it right back up with the best in class. Present models are better equipped than before.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
Run-out models now get the 70bhp three-cylinder 1.2-litre at the base level and, while this is not quite class leading, it is better than the meagre 54bhp unit that used to start the range.
The 1.4-litre four-cylinder unit only offers an extra 10bhp but is more refined and less vocal. The 80bhp diesel is frugal and quite peppy, but is a little on the expensive side. The 1.8 GTi is way off challenging its more potent rivals.
AT THE WHEEL: * *
It really feels its age now compared to some newer rivals, and dynamically it is quite a bit off newer favourites. It is built for comfort and has a soft suspension set-up and this translates to a lot of body roll. The light steering is fine around town, but gives little feedback. Steering adjusts for height and reach, but seats are rather unsupportive.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * *
You will squeeze four adults into either the three- or five-door Polo at a push, so space isn't bad, but newer rivals offer more space in the cabin. Boot space of 270 litres is about average.
SAFETY: * * *
Front driver and passenger airbags and side airbags are standard on all models. ESP and traction control is available as a €726 option which is not bad at this level, but few are likely to take this up.
Its four-star Euro NCAP safety score is below that of the best of the newer rivals.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
The Polo has always had a tradition of holding its value and this remains the case even as this present model nears the end of its life. The three-cylinder 1.2-litre is frugal, as is the 1.4-litre diesel and servicing costs are reasonable.
CONCLUSIONS:
FOR:Image, comfort, residuals.
AGAINST:Spartan interior, not very fun to drive.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:It remains a favourite because of its strong image and residual value, but it feels off the pace at this stage compared to others in the class.
BEST BUY:1.2-litre Comfortline AC.
RENAULT CLIO
Price: €16,275-€32,000
NCAP Crash Test: * * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 2.0
Trim Levels: Authentique, Dynamique, Monaco, Ripcurl, Sport+, Renaultsport
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
Over the years, even when there was trouble with other models, the Clio has proven to be a gem and the new ones feel of a very high standard.
The doors shut with a fine thud, and the interior plastics are much better than before. It is certainly at the top end in terms of perceived quality. Mechanically everything should be fine too.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
Because the Clio has grown so much, it tends to struggle a little with the 75bhp unit, which feels a little overwhelmed, but will account for the majority of sales. The 97bhp in the 1.4-litre offers better performance and you should stretch to this if your budget allows.
The 1.6-litre engine is likely to appeal to few, but at the top of the range, the 2.0-litre 197bhp RenaultSport is probably one of the best hot hatches you can buy.
AT THE WHEEL: * * * *
A great driving position and good seats are traits of the new Clio and it benefits greatly from the increased dimensions and step up in quality.
This is now one of the best cars to drive in its class, and it blends comfort with excellent roadholding and responsive steering.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * * *
With 288 litres of boot space and its new increased dimensions, the Clio is a generous car, and for anyone who favours space and comfort. This could well be the car to choose if space is important to you.
Even the three-door model will seat four adults in comfort.
SAFETY: * * * *
It scored a high five-star result in the Euro NCAP safety tests and even the basic models come with four airbags with higher models gaining curtain airbags. Stability control is an option.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
Clios have traditionally held their value well and even seven-year-old models are in demand. This new one is far from cheap though, and this might be impeding it from being at the top of the sales charts.
Most models are very frugal and will be cheap to run and insure.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Hugely improved, good quality, comfortable, safe.
AGAINST:Not cheap, the 1.2-litre is a little sluggish.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Feels like a much more grown up car and its strong safety record, space and comfort make it a good buy.
BEST BUY:1.2-litre Ripcurl.
SUZUKI SWIFT
Price: €14,295-€20,995
NCAP Crash Test: * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.3, 1.5, 1.6
Trim Levels: GL, GLX, Sport
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * * *
The Swift is a far cry from the cars that bore its name in days gone by.
This car feels really well put together and the interior is not bad either.
Sure there are some hard plastics in places, but the overall feel and look is rather good and is very smartly styled.
This feels like it will be a hard wearing car and you just know that the engines are built to last.
PERFORMANCE: * * * *
The main seller is the 91bhp 1.3-litre engine and this is a pretty good unit, proving to be willing and reasonably perky.
Better is the 100bhp 1.5-litre engine, but this is likely to be too many ccs for most buyers in this class.
The 1.6-litre Sport is an absolute hoot, with 125bhp under the hood and really eager handling.
AT THE WHEEL: * * *
Not as easy to get a comfortable driving position as in some rivals as there is not a great range of steering or seat adjustment.
The cabin is a nice place to be though and to drive this car feels agile and nimble.
It is just spoiled a little by steering that doesn't give as much feedback as it should.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * *
There is generous room in the Swift, especially the 5-door with its high roofline.
You will fit four adults comfortable in the car and there is not a bad amount of boot space, although at 213-litres it is not quite class leading in this competitive sector.
The rear seats split 60/40 and will tumble forwards if you need more room for bigger luggage. The car feels refined on rough surfaces and soaks up bumps well.
SAFETY: * * * *
It scored four stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests and all models get ABS brakes and four airbags. However, only the Sport gets traction control and stability control.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
This car will be an absolute doddle to run because the engines are reliable and frugal and the purchase price is not bad either.
Depreciation appears to have been kind to the Swift so far in its career too.
CONCLUSIONS:
FOR:Seriously cute, perky engines, loads of charm.
AGAINST: Luggage space could be better.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Still one of the best cars in its class despite the new competition.
BEST BUY:1.5 GLX.
NISSAN MICRA
Price: €15,590-€18,140
NCAP Crash Test: * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.2
Trim Levels: SXE, SVE
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * *
While there is definitely a rather toy-like feel to the Micra's exterior and interior, it is relatively hard-wearing. The range in Ireland is paired down and pretty well equipped, so none of them feel particularly low grade.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
There is just one engine offered in the range here, and that is the 80bhp 1.2-litre which will manage 0-100km/h in a rather lazy 13.5 seconds, but as most of these cars tend to spend time in the city, few will grumble over its lack of pace. It is not all that quiet either, and noise can be an issue.
AT THE WHEEL: * * * *
It is reasonably fun to drive, if a little on the soft side. Sport models, with the larger wheels can make things feel a little firmer.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * *
Boot space of 251 litres is short of many of its rivals and the curved roofline does impede rear headroom, but this won't bother kids too much. You can slide the rear bench to give extra legroom at the expense of more boot space.
SAFETY: * * *
It scored four stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests. SXE models get driver and passenger airbags and ABS with brake assist. Side airbags and active headrests feature on the SVE model.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * *
Cheap to buy, the Micra makes a relatively good buy, though residuals are not as good as the top level cars in this category.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Well equipped, ease of use.
AGAINST:Lacks room in the rear, a little "girly", small boot.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:The latest specification models are well equipped and it's good value too.
BEST BUY:1.2-litre 5-door SVE
FIAT GRANDE PUNTO
Price: €15,195-€20,795
NCAP Crash Test: * * * * *
Seats: 5
Doors: 3/5
Engines: 1.2 8v, 1.4 8v, 1.4 16v, 1.4 T-Jet, 1.3d 75, 1.3d 90,
Trim Levels: Active, Active Go, Dynamic, Dynamic Team, Emotion, Sporting
QUALITY AND RELIABILITY: * * *
We can report that the Grande Punto is much improved in previous versions of the Punto, but there are areas where it feels a little less solidly put together, especially on areas of the interior.
The mechanics should be sound enough though, as most of these engines are well tried and trusted at this stage.
PERFORMANCE: * * *
A really wide range of engines, with the 1.2-litre 8v engine feeling a little hard pushed with just 65bhp.
Better are the 1.4-litre units which come in a variety of guises including a new turbocharged version.
The 75bhp 1.3-litre diesel is a strong performer, bettered by the simply superb 90bhp unit.
The 120bhp 1.4 T-Jet model tops the range in the Sporting model.
AT THE WHEEL: * * *
The Punto has light steering and this aids it around town and the handling is pretty good too, but the steering could do with a little bit more feel.
Some of the models with larger alloy wheels can feel a little over-firm when driving around town.
The driving position is good, thanks to a height adjustable seat and steering that adjust for height and reach.
Taller drivers with larger feet might find the footwell a little cramped.
SPACE AND COMFORT: * * * *
This car is huge, and that means there is plenty of space all round, with 275-litre boot space which is up there with the best in the class.
The ride is better out on the open road rather than in town, but it does give a comfortable ride overall.
SAFETY: * * * *
It scored very highly in the Euro NCAP safety tests with an excellent five-star result.
Driver and passenger front airbags are standard on the entry level model.
The Dynamic model gains curtain airbags and window bags.
ESP is standard on the Sporting version and a reasonable €510 option on other versions.
RUNNING COSTS AND DEPRECIATION: * * * *
The Fiat Grande Punto has traditionally not enjoyed the same residual value of some of its Japanese and German rivals, but there are improvements with this model - this is a very good value car and it is also very well equipped, so this offsets some of the potential to lose money in depreciation.
The engines are all very fuel efficient, especially the 1.3-litre diesel engines which also boast very low emissions.
CONCLUSIONS
FOR:Very stylish, great value, spacious, good safety equipment.
AGAINST:Steering could be better, potential to lose value, range way too big.
THE IRISH TIMES VERDICT:Much better to drive than before and a much bigger car too, with great safety equipment, but the range needs to be streamlined a little we feel.
BEST BUY:1.3 Multijet Active.