The small car market is one of the fiercest, as you get models from different ends of the quality and performance spectrum.
These days, people are after the latest equipment with their new compact models – with many now coming with impressive levels of infotainment and safety features.
Here are some of the best small cars with impressive technology fitted…
Ford Fiesta ST
As the performance-focused version of the nation’s best-selling vehicle, the Fiesta ST is popular for many reasons. But the amount of tech on-board lends to how impressive it is, as customers can find high-end features, such as the Sync 3 infotainment system, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, a rear-view camera, blind spot information and driver alert system. If you’re after extra performance, customers can also get launch control and selectable driving modes. As a performance model, the ST stands above all its rivals in many aspects.
Mercedes A-Class
The latest version of the smallest Mercedes model is filled with premium tech, and the MBUX infotainment system the centrepiece, which can be used to show virtual reality directions over the satellite navigation. With the MBUX system using a voice-activated artificial intelligence assistant to help you get where you need to and stay up to date, the A-Class can also be fitted with 10.25-inch screens for the media and instrument displays, while also being offered with a series of packs that further enhance the technology on-board. Driver assistants, a head-up display and improved comfort features can also be applied.
Suzuki Swift Sport
The cute sporty hatchback comes with a surprisingly high level of specification from its base spec. For a car of this size and price – £16,999 – it’s tremendously well-equipped, with features such as adaptive cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment display with smartphone connectivity, a rear parking camera and satellite navigation all applied as standard. It also comes with excellent safety features, such as lane departure warning, high beam assist, brake support and LED daytime running lights.
BMW i3
The all-electric i3 can offer a zero-emission range of over 160 miles on a single charge, and the stylish hatchback comes with an impressive level of tech to match its futuristic look. A large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen is the centrepiece of the cabin and includes BMW’s ConnectedDrive Services setup that includes concierge mode, while it also includes LED daytime running lights, rear parking sensors and a digital instrument display. It can also be fitted with a series of additional safety systems for extra peace of mind.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Like the i3, the all-electric Kona has an impressive level of tech as standard, but it also comes with a range upwards of 300 miles. As standard it comes with an eight-inch infotainment display, wireless smartphone charging, climate control that can be set before you get in the car and also includes smart regenerative braking that can help replenish the car’s battery. Driver assistance systems are also included, such as adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic assist and blind spot detection.
Mini John Cooper Works
The hot hatchback comes with many pieces of kit to make it one of the most tantalising options on the compact market. The sport mode can turn it from a civilised city car into a track-ready hatch that is an absolute laugh to drive. Inside, it also comes with a large infotainment display, a head-up display, sports suspension and an eight-speed automatic transmission that comes with a manual mode when you want complete control.
Nissan Micra
The Japanese model comes with a series of features that help it be one of the most advanced small cars around. Fitted with a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, the Micra can also come with Bose speakers in the headrests for an improved listening experience. Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility safety systems are also available with the Micra, with kit such as intelligent lane intervention, emergency braking, around view monitor, moving object detection, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition.