BEST USED SUPERMINI Ford Fiesta
OUR PICK EcoBoost 100 Zetec 5dr (2017/17, 29k miles, £10,495)
THE Fiesta might have been knocked off the top of the new-car sales charts, but as a used choice it’s still head and shoulders above its rivals. Brilliant to drive, well equipped and cost-effective to run, the family-friendly Ford remains a second-hand supermini star.
At the heart of the Ford’s appeal are its sparkling driving dynamics, which deliver agile and engaging handling. Yet the Fiesta also has a cushioned ride and strong refinement, while its compact dimensions and light controls help take the strain when driving on crowded city streets.
Engines range from fuel-sipping diesels through to the thumping 197bhp turbocharged 1.5-litre in the fast and fun ST hot hatch. However, for most drivers it’s the 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol units that will represent the best bet, with a winning blend of eagerness and efficiency.
A recent facelift has delivered a slightly smarter and more upmarket interior, but all versions are built solidly and well equipped. Zetec and Titanium models get all the equipment that you’ll ever need, including the excellent SYNC 3 infotainment system. Elsewhere, the Vignale adds a touch of luxury and the Active some rugged crossover appeal.
And while the Fiesta isn’t as practical as a Skoda Fabia, few families will have anything to grumble about when it comes to room for people and luggage. With the seats up, the boot capacity is 311 litres, but fold the backrests down and you’ll free up 1,093 litres of space to stow larger items.
As always, there are loads of used examples on sale out there, so you’re spoiled for choice. A budget of around £10,500 will get you into a pre-facelift example of the current-generation Fiesta with a relatively low mileage.
Better still, regardless of what you pay to purchase one, the Fiesta should be a dependable choice, and if there are any mechanical maladies then it’s reassuring to know almost any garage in the land can fix Ford’s supermini.