Best cheap automatic cars 2024

Published: 31 January 2024

Whether you need to nip around town or head onto the open road, there’s a cheap used automatic car to suit you.

We’ve selected our top 10, including different types of car, to help you find your best option.

The words ‘cheap’ and ‘Mercedes’ don’t typically go together, but the Mercedes-Benz A-Class delivers on both. In fact, an automatic version of the previous-generation A-Class can be surprisingly easy on the finances and it has brand appeal that most of its rivals can only dream of.

While the A-Class isn’t the most practical car of its type, it’s roomy enough for children and offers a comfortable driving experience. There’s a range of trim levels and engines to choose from and a wide choice of automatic options to suit you, whether your focus is on affordability, luxury or sportiness.

The Peugeot 2008 is a stylish SUV that’s very cost-effective to run, thanks to a range of fuel-efficient engines.

Early 2008s were manual-only, but a six-speed automatic was introduced in 2016, so look for cars from that year onwards. An automatic Peugeot 2008 will also give you a nimble, responsive driving experience and its compact size and large windows make it easy to park. You get a surprisingly spacious interior, as well as a very large boot. All-in-all, it’s a versatile and very capable car.

The Honda Jazz is one of the unsung heroes of the car world. It doesn’t have a sexy image, but this little hatchback is an excellent car that does everything it sets out to do. It gives you vast amounts of interior space, clever back seats that fold up to let you carry extra luggage, and a comfortable driving experience.

The automatic gearbox works brilliantly with the Jazz’s 1.3 or 1.5-litre petrol engines, especially for around-town driving. Fuel economy is excellent and you get the reassurance of Honda’s excellent reputation for reliability.

The Jazz holds its value rather well compared to cars like the Ford Fiesta and the Vauxhall Corsa, but while that means it may be a bit more expensive to buy, you should get more back when you choose to sell it.

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the best all-rounders you can get. The one you see here is the seventh-generation car and it’s one of the best Golfs ever made. Available in a huge range of trims and engines – from affordable and efficient to powerful hot hatch versions, plug-in hybrids and electric models – it’s a fantastic choice.

Across this range are several automatic models, with just about every combination of engine and trim available. Choice is one thing, but the Golf excels in other areas, too. It feels more premium than many of its hatchback rivals (oh, and estate versions are available, too), and drives beautifully, balancing agility with comfort on all types of road.

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• Best used cars 2024

Sold new from 2014 to 2021, the second-generation Toyota Aygo is an excellent city car that’s stylish and affordable to run. All versions of the Aygo are very fuel-efficient, and the good news is that automatic versions barely differ in this regard from manual models. You can expect up to 54mpg, depending on the engine you go for. Insurance costs and car tax bills are generally very low as well.

The Aygo has light steering that makes it a doddle to drive in town. It gives you a good view out, a smooth ride and Toyota’s enviable reputation for reliability. And in case you were wondering, it’s pronounced “I go”.

Another version of a British favourite, the Ford Focus is a superb family hatchback (or estate) that still competes well against much newer and more expensive rivals. A regular best-seller, there are always loads to choose from on the used market, with a range of trims and engines to pick from.

Some (but not all) are available with an automatic gearbox. You’ll have to pick from the 1.6-litre petrol or the 2.0-litre diesel, but they’re both decent engines that effectively mix power and efficiency in one of the best-driving cars of its type.

The Vauxhall Insignia gives you a lot of car for not a huge amount of money. Available as a five-door hatchback called Insignia Grand Sport or as an estate called Insignia Sports Tourer, it comes with loads of equipment as standard and an upmarket feel.

There’s a wide choice of trims and engines. The automatic models make for a smooth, easy and relaxed ride, especially on longer journeys. Running costs are generally low thanks to good fuel economy and the interior is very roomy, with lots of space for passengers and luggage.

A premium alternative to the Mercedes A-Class, the previous-generation BMW 1 Series has an extra edge of driver involvement. Most models are rear-wheel drive, although a few have four-wheel drive, and there’s a broad range of petrol and diesel engines, from small and efficient models to impressively powerful performance cars.

Many models were available with an automatic gearbox that had little impact on fuel economy compared to a manual. You can also choose between three-door and five-door hatchback models. All have high-quality, comfortable interiors and lots of features as standard.

Many, many Nissan Qashqais have been sold in the UK. This may mean it’s not a car that’s going to stand out on the road, but it does mean you have a wealth of choice. What’s more, it’s a very good family SUV.

The Qashqai is a very comfortable car, with soft front seats and a smooth ride. It’s especially easy-going if you choose an automatic version and, overall, the Qashqai is a stress-free car to drive whether you’re dropping the kids off at school or taking the whole family away on holiday.

Much like the 1960s Mini that inspired it, the modern Mini Hatch has become a design classic. Bursting with retro style, it’s also a car that’s practical around town and great fun on the open road. There are thousands to choose from on the used market, so there’s bound to be one that fits your needs.

The Mini Hatch is available with a range of engines, from small, fuel-efficient ones to larger, powerful performance engines. The various automatic petrol and diesel models all shift quickly and smoothly, adding to the enjoyable drive you get with every Mini.

You’ll find lots of used cars for sale at Cazoo, all available to buy through our trusted dealers.

Cazoo makes selling a car just as easy – just enter a few details for an instant online valuation. If you accept the offer our partners will get in touch to arrange payment and collection of your car at a time that suits you.