CITROËN DS3

 If you’re looking for a hatchback with a bit of personality, then the DS3 could be the car for you. Launched in 2011 as Citroen’s answer to cars like the new MINI and the Fiat 500, the DS3 tapped-in to that vibrant, youth market with funky styling and a buzzy performance that’s enjoyable to drive. In fact, it sparked the entire DS Automobiles sub-brand that was launched in 2015.

There’s a couple of diesel options, but we’d dismiss those in favour of the petrol engines; a 95bhp 1.4-litre, 120bhp 1.6-litre, or a 150bhp turbocharged 1.6-litre. The 1.4 was replaced with a 1.2-litre Puretech turbo in 2014, but these models are particularly sought after by young drivers and fall just outside of our £4000 budget now.

It was clear the DS3 was aimed at the younger market who would prefer a ‘sporty’ feel, and evidence of this can be found in the naming conventions for the four trim levels offered. Dsign was the entry-level version but was still equipped with goodies such as cruise control and power mirrors. The next step up was the Dstyle, which added aircon, privacy glass and alloys. But the ones you’d want are the Dsport or Dsport Plus models, which came with modern gadgets that today we’d feel a little lost without, such as Bluetooth connectivity and climate control. Although you’ll need to check your phone is compatible; in some cases, a software update fixes the issue.

Common problems include the black vinyl around the front windows lifting away or bubbling (complete replacement is the only cure), corroded alloys (made worse using powerful wheel cleaners), and some 1.6-litre turbo engines have been known to suffer turbocharger and water pump failure.

For a ten-year-old car, the DS3 still looks surprisingly fresh. And is well suited to everyday economical driving if you choose the 89bhp 1.6-litre diesel, or for the best all-rounder we’d suggest the 120bhp 1.6-litre petrol. It’s punchy enough to keep up with modern traffic both in and out of town, is exciting enough to make the drive enjoyable, and still returns 50mpg.