Concentrated goodness
New cars as small as these are rare in showrooms these days.There’s plenty of choice if you go used,though,as these two little wonders attest
*Price today is based on a 2017 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
1Chunky physical dials make the standard-fit climate control system easy to operate by feel when you’re on the move
2Both cars have height-adjustable driver’s seats, but the Picanto’s provides more lower back support
3Front and rear electric windows are fitted as standard equipment – a feature that’s quite rare among city cars
1Clean looking two-tone dashboard and quilted seat upholstery lend the Up’s interior a more upmarket feel
2The Up’s steering wheel partially obscures the instruments unless you raise it to almost its highest setting
3The front door bins are more generously sized than the Picanto’s; they’re big enough to hold a large drinks bottle
ONCE UPON A time, things were simple. If you wanted a car that was cheap to buy and run, easy to drive and a cinch to park, you bought a city car. Unfortunately, these cars, though always popular among first-time buyers and those looking to downsize, were never as profitable for their manufacturers as you might imagine. Added to that, the recent toughening of emissions legislations and the charge towards electrification have led to a great many disappearing from new car price lists.