Automatic cars are typically more expensive than their manual counterparts and cost more to insure and fix. However, not everything is doom and gloom, as automatic cars offer the ease of driving and take out the hassle of switching gears. They also reduce the risk of stalling at the least convenient places, such as mid-hill or roundabouts.
So if you’re looking to save when purchasing an automatic car, check out our picks of cheap automatic vehicles that cost less than £250 a month. For this price, most of the automatic cars will be second-hand, even though it’s also possible to find new automatic variants. Please note, all the prices listed are based on Stoneacre used automatic car prices.
Kia Picanto
If pug was a car, it would definitely be the adorable Kia Picanto. It features an eccentric exterior design and a modern interior with good kit levels across the trims. The Picanto also isn’t too expensive to run as it’s a small city car.
Pros:
- Great for urban driving
- Generous equipment levels & space
Cons:
- Can feel slow on a motorway
- Unique styling may not be everyone’s cup of tea
Price: from £8,989 or £167.14/month on finance for an automatic 2018 1.25 2
Nissan Juke
This small SUV features a high-riding position so your visibility of the road is increased. Additionally, its bold styling sets it apart from the crossover SUV crowd. You’ll easily get your money’s worth with the Juke as it comes with ABS, DAB radio, blind-spot monitoring & a lot of other features.
Pros:
- Quirky design
- Fun driving experience
Cons:
- No hybrid option yet
- Limited amount of space
Price: from £9,995 or £175.32/month on finance for an automatic 2017 1.6 N-Connecta version
Hyundai ix20
If you’re after an automatic small & compact city car, then take a look at Hyundai ix20. It’s a safe car, with Euro NCAP awarding it five stars. You’ll also find plenty of space aboard the ix20, both in the cabin and the boot.
Pros:
- Easy to park
- Spacious cabin & boot
Cons:
- Some rivals are more exciting to drive
- The diesel engine can get noisy
Price: from £8,995 or £165.28/month on finance for an automatic 2017 SE 1.6 version
Kia Venga
The Venga is a practical car which is affordable and excellent for both city driving and motorway cruising. And of course, there’s the legendary 7-year warranty, so you’ll benefit from it even when buying a used model.
Pros:
- Lots of safety features
- A reliable family car
Cons:
- Only basic kit in lower trims
- Can feel uncomfortable at higher speeds
Price: from £9,295 or £172.43/month on finance for an automatic 2017 1.6 5dr Auto
Toyota Auris
Toyota Auris is a reliable car which isn’t too thrilling to drive, but it makes up for it with the price and all the necessities you’d need in a family car. Additionally, it has a Hybrid version which is eco-friendly and economical.
Pros:
- Peppy engine
- Cheap running costs
Cons:
- Poor accessibility when entering
- Plain interior design
Price: from £10,000 or £179.57/month on finance for an automatic 2016 1.8 Hybrid Business Edition
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross
The SX4 crossover is a car with bold looks and an interior to match with an up-to-date infotainment system, cruise control and reclining back seats. Just like Hyundai ix20, it was also awarded five stars for safety from Euro NCAP.
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Agile steering
Cons:
- Could be more efficient
- If buying new will depreciate fast
Price: from £8,995 or £162.37/month on finance for an automatic 2017 1.0 Boosterjet SZ-T
Suzuki Swift
Yet another Suzuki on the list, the Swift is one of the most well-known and best-selling cars in the UK in the supermini segment. You can choose a four-wheel-drive option, which is especially useful if you live in a rural area or need to brave poor weather every day.
Pros:
- Great fuel economy
- Stylish and youthful exterior
Cons:
- Not the most spacious
- Mediocre safety record
Price: from £9,918 or £186.85/month on finance for an automatic 2017 1.0 Boosterjet SZ5
Honda Jazz
The Jazz is a practical and roomy car with its Magic Seat configuration which can create even more space. It’s also a good choice if you want lots of equipment, as even the most basic S trim has all the boxes checked.
Pros:
- Generous equipment
- Safe & practical
Cons:
- Noisy inside when travelling at higher speeds
- Can feel a bit dated compared to newer competitors
Price: from £8,995 or £155.39/month on finance for an automatic 2017 1.3 SE
Nissan Pulsar
Pulsar is a family-friendly hatchback which is equal parts sensible and spacious. Even though the driving experience leaves much to be desired, it’s a practical choice. Additionally, Pulsar is a safe choice, with its Safety Shield Technology which offers comprehensive safety features.
Pros:
- Roomy interior
- Comfortable driving with adjustable seats and steering wheel
Cons:
- Lacks in the style department
- Short warranty
Price: from £10,995 or £202.05/month on finance for an automatic 2018 1.2 DiG-T Tekna
Mazda 2
A great first car, Mazda 2 has exciting handling and steering, in addition to great MPG. Design is another aspect that’s you shouldn’t overlook – large front grille, sharp lines and prominent LED headlights make it a good-looking car.
Pros:
- Fun to drive
- Good-quality interior
Cons:
- Small boot
- Tight on space at the back
Price: from £11,000 or £204.45/month on finance for an automatic 2018 1.5 SE-L Nav
What’s your favourite automatic car on a budget? Share it in the comments!
