Nippy yet practical

Name Maria Marsden
Age 51
Drives Ford Focus Estate
Budget 9000
Wants 'Something nippy and manoeuvrable for my 15-mile daily commute.

It needs to have a decent boot, and comfort and fuel economy are also important.'

What Car? recommends
If, like Maria, 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

Hyundai i20 1.2 Classic 5dr
Price 8645
Target Price 8259

The i20 is our top choice if Maria wants to buy new. It doesn't offer as much space as her Focus Estate, but it's a cracking all-round car for the money and very cheap to run. It's also surprisingly comfortable. 

Renault Clio Sport Tourer 1.2 TCE Dyn', '08/58
Price 8800

You don't see many Sport Tourers on the road, but the big-booted Clio is actually a fine car. It has a thoughtfully designed loadbay, and this 1.2 turbo version has both good pace and fuel economy. 

Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI PD Ambiente, '07/07
Price 8900

The Octavia has the biggest boot of the three, and because this one's a diesel it's the most frugal, too. Skoda's small family car is comfortable and good to drive, and Ambiente trim comes with plenty of kit.