If you want a small car that’s well-equipped, relatively spacious and styled like a chunky SUV then the Renault Captur is in with a shout
Pros Cheap running costs Spacious for a small car Funky looks
Cons Noisy diesel engines Not much fun to drive No four-wheel-drive option
The updated Renault Captur is still a looker, and is cheaper to own and run than you might imagine. The flagship Zen is an interesting Hyundai Kona/Toyota C-HR/Mazda CX-3 rival.
Pros Looks great, brimming with character Agile urban dynamics None of your friends own one Cheaper to own/run than you'd think...
Cons No airbags for rear passengers Unsettled over sharp bumps EDC transmission less suitable than a torque-converter-style unit
Pros Spacious Well-equipped Good value
Cons Interior quality Gearbox Limited engine choice
The Nissan Juke is good to drive, more spacious than before and higher tech. There are more practical small SUVs if you're happy with more conservative looks, mind.
Pros Distinctive styling Interior quality Good safety tech
Cons Limited engine choice Bumpy on larger wheels Infotainment
The Nissan Juke was a pioneer when it launched nine years ago. It packed the attitude and altitude of a crossover, and out-there styling, all shrunk into a supermini’s length span. It sold like crazy from the start to the end of its life. Here’s the new one. Different in very many ways, but the spirit is supposed to remain.
Pros Distinctive looks, rich interior, undemanding to drive
Cons Hatches ride and handle better
Nissan Juke is more spacious, better equipped, good to drive and well priced. With so many great rivals, it's unlikely the second Juke will become as successful as the first but, particularly in mid-level N-Connecta trim, it's a strong proposition.
Pros Good value Improved interior space Fun to drive
Cons No hybrid yet Noisy manual gearbox Only one engine
