The big change has already begun. Gasoline models, clearly the majority before the pandemic (57.9% of sales in France in 2019), market share fell sharply to just 37.9% in the first eight months of 2023. The biggest gains are hybrid and electric modelswhich now accounts for 38.2% of the French market compared to 7.6% in 2019. In short, Don’t delay if you are looking for a new affordable and practical thermos car. We have collected in this file interesting models that (so far!) have escaped the “big purge”.

Mini car for less than 12,000 euros: Fiat Panda

Dear Panda’s days are numbered : a new (and more expensive!) 100% electric version will be released next year. Pending, the current one remains in the catalog at a very affordable price (11,700 euros without discount) with proper equipment (air conditioner, radio, Bluetooth and power windows as standard). Still as short (3.69m), very manoeuvrable around town thanks to enhanced steering in city mode, it also benefits from comfortable suspensions and 1.0 with voluntary microhybridization, although not very effective : on the track, even with a gear reduction, you will need patience! Also, this unit can be more sober in an urban environment. But the internal supply has aged well, everything is assembled soundly and four adults will fit on board without any problems. As for the trunk, it is quite acceptable considering the size. Still in the game, good old panda!

Small affordable 4X4: Suzuki Ignis

The Ignis is one of the latest four-wheel drive models available. Capable of climbing on trails or in the snow, he shows himself maneuverable and convenient for parking. He will even be able to leave the cities, thanks to a a micro-hybrid engine full of goodwill. A little greedy on the highway, but thrifty in the city. Finally, his equipment is ready (Mirror screen, rearview camera, sliding seat, etc.). Cons: limited habitability and somewhat stiff suspensions.

Universal city car: Dacia Sandero

Don’t look for: With an entry ticket set at €11,990, the Sandero still has no equivalent on the market (and, combined, it has been number one for several years among the cars most sold to individuals in France). At this price, Dacia has a three-cylinder gasoline engine with a capacity of only 65 horsepower. Of course, acceleration and recovery are not virulent, but, this block is quite enough for living, especially because its consumption is moderate (6 l/100 km). And despite his lack of cheerfulness, he guarantees union minimum wage on the freeway. Dacia is also appreciated for its great versatility. Comfortable, pleasant to drive and safe, it also benefits from excellent habitability. And when you check the €13,600 Expression trim, the city car is pretty well equipped with air conditioning, rear park assist, an 8-inch touchscreen…

Premium city car for €25,000: Audi A1

This is confirmed: A1 will not be replaced. So, if you need a chic and understated city car, it’s now or never! This entry-level version settles for a 95bhp 1.0 turbo, but it ‘gets the job done’. In addition, equipment is not cut: dual-zone automatic air conditioning, reversing radar, Mirror Screen and alloy wheels are standard. It is enough to forgive a few “cheap” plastic. Especially since A1 remains a soothing city car to drive…and more comfortable than its rival, the Mini.

Super GTi available: Hyundai i20 N

Faced with increasingly high fines, manufacturers one by one are abandoning the sports car segment. gold, to the delight of enthusiasts, Hyundai is resisting, with its i20 N. The fine is 2,726 euros, but thanks to the 6% discount, the price of this bomb does not skyrocket. Generous to the touch, this genuine GTI benefits from a powerful 204bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine.a nice six-speed manual gearbox, as well as a front axle with a self-locking differential.

Beautiful and economical small SUV: Ford Puma

The Fiesta, which was Ford’s most attractive model, unfortunately disappeared from the catalog. And this is today Puma providing the entry level. It also benefits from being famous block 1.0 Flexifuel. Thanks to micro-hybridization, it keeps costs down when running on E85 at an attractive price (less than €1.05/l). but Puma also shines with the sensations it creates. This small SUV has the best chassis in its class. The only obstacle can be the lack of space in the back and a somewhat stiff suspension.

A modern station wagon for 30,000 ^€: Peugeot 308 SW

Manufacturers strive to rationalize their assortment there are fewer interruptions. But Peugeot still offers this option on its 308, p very stylish SW version. Besides being comfortable, it stands out his good footwork in turns. A guarantee of driving comfort with an automatic transmission, 1.2 PureTech 130 helps reduce costs and stands out for its affordability. And if there is little space in the back, spacious trunk (575 dm3) and convenient to charge.

Seven-seater family car at favorable prices: Dacia Jogger

For large families with a limited budget, Dacia offers the smart Jogger, available in a 5- or 7-seater version (+900 euros). At the entry level, this raised station wagon is also appealing economical engine 1.0 Eco-G (petrol/gas) 100 hp. In LPG mode, we note an excess consumption of 2.6 l/100 km compared to the SP95, but at the gas station this fuel is much more affordable (less than €1/l). in addition excellent road qualities (comfort/handling), we are tempted by the well-thought-out modularity and ease of living.

Future collector: Alpine A110

Alpine’s return with the A110 is a success. And for good reason, this modern Berlinetta combines all the components that make up the essence of sportiness. But if you want to treat yourself to a piece of French automotive history, don’t delay: this future collector’s item shouldn’t stay in the catalog for long. European standards in terms of active safety, effective from July 1, 2024, will complicate its approval. In addition, the manufacturer decided to electrify all its subsequent models. Therefore, if your budget allows, go for it! We remind you that the A110 differs in that its own weight (1111 kg), its convincing 1.8 turbo engine with a capacity of 252 hp. located behind the seats and its surgically precise steering. Also note that the flexibility of the suspension, characteristic of the base version, contributes to the comfort and versatility of the A110.

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