Although larger crossovers and SUVs are now more popular in the UK, small hatchbacks still make up a decent chunk of new car sales in the UK.
Only four new models bolstered the small car category in the last twelve months, and all of these were battery-powered. With most providing an affordable pathway to electric car ownership, the eligible cars this year were:
Unlike medium and large cars, we still distinguish between ‘regular’ cars (hatchbacks, basically) and SUVs or crossovers in the small segment.
Our awards recognise both the best new models launched over the last 12 months and the best overall cars in each category – because newest doesn’t always mean best, as you can see below.
Best new small car: Hyundai Inster
Arriving this year to plenty of reviewer praise, the narrow but nevertheless spacious Hyundai Inster serves as a fantastic entryway to electric car ownership.
Combining a competitive battery range and a practical well-built interior in an affordable sub-£25k package, the compact Korean hatchback offers a straight-forward and comfortable driving experience that makes the car really easy to live with.
Rivals like the BYD Dolphin Surf, Citroën ë-C3 and Dacia Spring do have cheaper starting prices, but the Inster is better equipped as standard, and higher trim models offer fantastic interior versatility, with rear seats that can slide forward and back to provide either a bigger boot or plenty of rear legroom.
Class champions
Although the Hyundai Inster is the top-rated small car launched in the last 12 months, that doesn’t mean it immediately moves to the top of the small car pile. As of December 2025, another small EV still carries a higher Expert Rating score.
Class champion, electric: Renault 5 E-Tech
After such an enormous amount of hype for the Renault 5’s return, it seemed impossible that the car would actually live up to expectations.
Yet reviewers have been bowled over by the 5’s driving dynamics and sheer charm. Winner of this Best Small Car award last year, the 5 E-Tech has been widely praised for its charm, driving experience and its value-for-money. At a starting price of £23K, it makes many rivals look boring and overpriced.
Class champion, petrol/diesel/hybrid: Skoda Fabia
Maintaining its class champion title for another year, the Skoda Fabia does exactly what you’d expect a Skoda to do – deliver great value for money in a largely unassuming package.
Unlike the Renault, no-one’s likely to be captivated by the Fabia’s anonymous styling. But you can’t go past the Fabia if you’re looking for a petrol-powered car that gives you maximum bang for your buck.
The Car Expert Awards 2026– all the category winners
