The car market has evolved to such an extent where there are genuinely cool and premium vehicles in every segment. Small cars especially are now bigger and better than ever before; providing exceptional value for money in a car that would have previously been limited in its ability. Whatever your requirements, there is now a small car to cope with everything; from standing out in the crowd, providing driving excitement and enough practical models to cope with the rigours of family life. Here are the small models, many of which you can find at Lifestyle Europe, which can fit any need:

When image matters

Having a small car does not mean that you can’t look the part when driving around town. Models from the Italian car makers have as much style as cars four times their value; models such as the style-focused Fiat 500 and endlessly desirable Alfa Romeo Mito and Giulietta. However, if buying British is your deal, then the iconic MINI is available in numerous customisable options to be as practical or great-looking as you prefer.

Refinement on a budget

With so many small car makers flooding the market and competing for a slice of the action, there are now those that offer unbelievable refinement as part of their USP. Cars like a Chevrolet Aveo, Kia Rio and Audi A1 allow you to experience large scale luxury in a car that will not break the bank in terms of upfront price and everyday running costs.

Driving excitement

Buying a smaller-sized car does not mean that you have to miss out on driving engagement. With some of the most dynamic brands now in the small car market there are plenty of models to choose from with enough powerful engines, expert handling and urban agility. BMW has its 1-Series and MINI, Ford has the irrepressible Fiesta and Focus; while the Suzuki Swift and Mazda3 can provide admirable driving quality.

Practicality and versatility

As budgets tightened in the face of the fierce recession many households quickly downgraded their car to save money. However, they still needed the same level of practicality that their old car offered. This made car manufacturers make the most the space at their disposal and now cars like the Honda Jazz, Fiat Panda and Skoda Fabia deliver clever functionality that enables you to fit as much cargo in as a family hatchback or even compact-MPV.