Small Cars, Big Convenience: 10 Best Automatic Options in The UK

Manual cars are still around, sure. But honestly, they might not be for much longer. Every year, more and more Brits ditch the clutch pedal in favor of automatics.

According to the DVSA, 324,064 driving tests in 2022-2023 were done in automatics. That’s still fewer than the 1.36 million manual tests in the same time, but that’s a 360% jump compared to 15 years ago.

Why? Well, electric cars are part of it. They don’t have manual transmissions at all. But also, finding a manual car to buy in 2025 is like finding a VHS player.

If you’re in the market for a small automatic car—whether it’s your first vehicle or just a budget-friendly option—there are tons of choices. After hours of testing, our team narrowed it down to the top 10. Spoiler: the Renault Clio takes the crown.

We’ve skipped electric models here, but these are the best small automatics you can buy.

Top Small Automatic Vehicles

1. Renault Clio

Excellent for: Quality materials

The Renault Clio is an easy favorite. It’s got two engine options: a turbo 1.0-litre petrol and a hybrid 1.6-litre petrol (badged E-Tech). Only the hybrid gets an automatic gearbox, but both are solid picks.

The E-Tech has 143bhp and uses a unique “multimodal” automatic with two electric motors. Officially, it gets 67.3mpg. At £21,495, it’s also the cheapest hybrid in the UK.

2. Seat Ibiza

Excellent for: Handling

The Seat Ibiza’s sporty FR trim (and higher) offers a seven-speed automatic with a 1.0-litre turbo engine that makes 113bhp. It’s quicker than you’d think, hitting 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds.

It costs £23,590, a bit more than the Clio, but includes LED headlights, safety tech, and dual-zone climate control. Sharp handling seals the deal.

3. Skoda Fabia

Excellent for: Affordability

Under the hood, the Fabia shares DNA with the Seat Ibiza. Same 1.0-litre engine. Same seven-speed automatic. But at £21,780, it’s cheaper.

What’s great about the Fabia? Space. It’s roomy, rides well, and its interior feels intuitive. Not as sporty as the Ibiza, but hey, it’s a fantastic all-rounder.

4. Mini Cooper

Excellent for: Personality

The Mini Cooper got a major revamp in 2024. It still looks cool, still has personality, and comes with petrol or electric power. No manual option, though.

It’s not cheap, but with options ranging from 154bhp to a fiery 229bhp in the John Cooper Works model, it’s a blast to drive. Just know the ride can feel stiff.

5. Toyota Yaris

Excellent for: Fuel efficiency

The Yaris comes with an automatic as standard, but it’s a different setup: an e-CVT. Don’t worry; it acts like a traditional automatic.

From £22,640, it’s one of the cheapest hybrids around. Its 1.5-litre petrol engine puts out 114bhp and gets up to 70.6mpg. Practical and economical.

6. Jeep Avenger

Excellent for: Boot space

Originally launched as an EV, the Jeep Avenger now offers a hybrid petrol version with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. It’s the same system found in the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 208.

Performance gets a boost thanks to an electric motor paired with the gearbox. While shifts can feel sluggish at times, it’s still a solid choice. Prices start at £10,000 less than the EV model.

7. Hyundai i20

Excellent for: Style

Hyundai’s i20 is all about looks. It’s got a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic paired with a 1.0-litre turbo engine (99bhp).

It’s not the fastest, but it’s efficient, managing 52.3mpg. Think of it as a stylish, dependable commuter car—not a thrill-seeker’s dream.

8. Toyota Aygo X

Excellent for: Visibility

The Aygo X is a crossover version of the classic Aygo. Its 1.0-litre engine makes just 70bhp, so it’s slow. Really slow (0-62mph in 14.8 seconds).

But here’s the catch: it’s super affordable. Prices start at £17,245. The interior is ergonomic, and the ride is surprisingly refined for its size.

9. Honda Jazz

Excellent for: Passenger space

If space matters, the Jazz delivers. It’s a full hybrid with an e-CVT, priced from £26,395.

Sure, it’s one of the pricier options, but it’s efficient (62.8mpg) and can drive short distances on electric power alone. Practicality is its strong suit.

10. Peugeot 208 & Vauxhall Corsa

Excellent for: Versatility

These two share a lot, including a six-speed automatic with an electric motor. Both come in petrol, hybrid, or electric versions.

The Corsa is slightly cheaper at £23,595, compared to the Peugeot’s £25,375. Both are stylish, comfortable, and good to drive, so pick the one that suits your taste.

Whether you want something sporty, practical, or just easy to drive, there’s a small automatic car for you. Keep these in mind when it’s time to shop.

Source and Images: AutoCar UK