Top Small Automatic Cars for 2024

In recent years, automatic transmissions have become an increasingly popular choice for drivers, gradually overtaking the traditional manual gearbox. According to statistics from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), 324,064 driving tests were taken in automatic cars between 2022 and 2023. Although this is still significantly lower than the 1.36 million manual tests conducted in the same period, the number of automatic tests has risen by an impressive 360% over the past 15 years.

Several factors are contributing to this trend. One major reason is the growing number of electric vehicles, which inherently lack a conventional gearbox. Furthermore, there has been a notable decline in the availability of cars equipped with manual transmissions. As a result, many new drivers, especially those with a preference for automatic cars, will be searching for their first vehicle, particularly smaller models that are more budget-friendly.

So, what are the best small automatic cars currently available in the UK? Here’s a rundown of the top 10, excluding electric cars.

1. Renault Clio
The latest Renault Clio comes with two engine options: a 1.0-litre petrol engine and an efficient E-Tech hybrid. However, only the hybrid model is paired with an automatic gearbox. The Clio E-Tech hybrid offers 143bhp, with its power managed by a four-speed automatic transmission that works alongside two electric motors. This setup makes it an economical option, with an impressive fuel efficiency rating of 67.3mpg. Additionally, the Clio is one of the most affordable hybrids in the UK, starting at £21,495.

2. Seat Ibiza
The Seat Ibiza is another excellent choice for those seeking a small car with an automatic gearbox. While the standard version comes with a five-speed manual transmission, the sportier FR trim and above offer a seven-speed automatic. The Ibiza is powered by the Volkswagen Group’s renowned 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 113bhp and accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 10.3 seconds. While it is slightly more expensive than the Clio, with a starting price of £23,590, it comes equipped with several impressive features, including LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, advanced safety systems, and cruise control.

3. Skoda Fabia
Sharing its platform with the Seat Ibiza, the Skoda Fabia also benefits from Volkswagen’s engineering. It’s powered by the same 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission, but it comes in slightly cheaper at £21,780. The Fabia stands out for its practicality, offering a spacious and user-friendly interior. Its smooth ride quality is another highlight, rivalling that of some luxury cars, making it a strong contender for everyday use. Although it may not be as sporty as the Ibiza, the Fabia is still a highly commendable small car.

4. Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris is another standout in the supermini category, equipped with an automatic transmission as standard. However, instead of a conventional automatic gearbox, the Yaris uses an e-CVT, which automatically selects the most efficient gear. For the driver, this operates similarly to a traditional automatic transmission. The Yaris starts at £22,640, making it one of the more affordable options in its class. It features a 1.5-litre hybrid petrol engine that produces 114bhp, with fuel efficiency figures reaching up to 70.6mpg in real-world driving conditions. Despite its eco-friendly credentials, the Yaris still delivers solid performance, accelerating from 0 to 62mph in just 9.7 seconds.

Each of these small automatic cars offers a blend of performance, practicality, and affordability, making them ideal choices for first-time buyers and seasoned drivers alike.