Frugal mile-muncher

Name Amy Davies
Age 22
Drives Nothing, yet
Budget 13,000
Wants: 'Something comfortable for my 100-mile daily commute.

It needs to be safe, reliable and easy to park. Space isn't important, but I need a boot of some sort.'

What Car? recommends
If, like Amy, you want our help to find your ideal car, just e-mail recommends@whatcar.com with:
• A photo of yourself
• Your budget
• Your current car
• Your age
• Your annual mileage
• Other useful info

Renault Clio 1.5 dCi 86 Dynamique 3dr
Price 13,320
Target Price 11,174

Renault's baby is right up there with the best 'minis again after a recent face-lift. The 1.5-litre diesel engine is smooth and frugal, and this Dynamique edition get a classy soft-touch dashboard. 

Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Zetec 3dr, '09/09
Price 12,230

Ford's recent track record for hiking prices every five minutes means a well-kitted new Fiesta diesel is out of Amy's reach. However, she could buy a nearly new example of this brilliant supermini: it's what we'd do. 

VW Golf 2.0 TDI GT 3dr, '07/57
Price 12,780

Amy doesn't need much in the way of space, but the Golf's larger footprint makes it more settled at high speeds than the Renault or Ford. The Mk V Golf is great to drive and scores five-out-of-five for safety.