Thinking of buying on a PCP (Personal Contract Plan), we have five cars for €150 or less per month writes Geraldine Herbert
Citroen C1
The funky styling of the new C3 may be grabbing headlines at the moment but if you are the market for an affordable supermini then Citroen’s C1 should be definitely be on your radar. With a cheeky personality, smart styling and frugal running costs, the C1 is Citroën’s answer to modern city living. The 1.2-litre/3-cylinder engine is the one to go for. On the road the C1 is a plucky and spirited performer but take it on a motorway and it is relaxing and comfortable to drive. It is available in both three and five-door, as a hatchback, or as a new open-top sardine style roof, named Airscape.
Starting Price: €11,145
PCP per month: €128.37
Hyundai i10
For 2017, the i10 gets fresher styling and more equipment than before. Outside it has been finely-tuned with a more appealing look, while inside it feels much roomier than a city car and the stylish interior with high quality touches make this a great place to spend time. Ride quality is surprisingly good for what is such a small and inexpensive car and the i10 is fun to drive around town. The 1.0 litre petrol is nippy and smooth. Aimed squarely at those who are buying on a budget but still want the best, Hyundai’s new i10 is a grown up and sophisticated interpretation of a classic city car that blends reliability, practicality and economy with smart styling and a focus on refinement.
Starting Price: €12,995
PCP per month: €140
Renault Clio
Bigger and better for 2016, the Clio gained new LED headlights with C-shaped daytime running lights, front grille and rear bumper. Two new engines have been added to the line up, a more powerful 1.5 dCi with 110 bhp that promises a frugal 3.5 litres per 100 with CO2 emissions of 90g/km along with a 1.2 litre TCe 120 petrol. Pick of the bunch is the juiced-up 1.5 diesel engine with a six speed gear box, the sheer refinement makes it very impressive. The appeal of the Clio is strong and it’s still got some of the old magic and while it competes in one of the most fiercely fought sections of the market, the Clio has matured nicely. In addition it comes with the reassurance of a five-year warranty.
Starting Price: €15,790
PCP per month: €125
Dacia Sandero
Dacia is all about providing simple and functional cars at an affordable price and the Sandero is a compact hatchback starting at just €10,490. A new design freshened it up for 2017 and a new interior raises the quality.
While it still feels a little on the cheap side there is a durable and understated quality nonetheless and it manages to feel fairly light and airy. On the road there is nothing particularly memorable about the drive but there is little to complain about also, it is reasonably quiet, comfortable and self assured. It’s hard not to be impressed with the Sandero. You get a huge amount for your money. Amazingly, less than €100 is enough to get you a Sandero on your driveway.
Starting Price: €10,490
PCP per month: €99
Ford Ka+
The all new Ka+ is the smartest yet and has just arrived in Ireland. Ford’s stylish new five door provides a alternative for car buyers who want a spacious, well-equipped and high-quality small car. Low running costs and a PCP monthly price of just €127.17 makes this an attractive new comer. It is slightly shorter than the Fiesta but 29 millimetres taller and comes with class-leading interior space along with 270 litres of luggage room. One engine is offered, a new 1.2-litre Duratec petrol engine that is available with a choice of 70hp and 85hp power outputs, the 1.2-litre engine is derived from the same family as the 1.25-litre engine in the Fiesta.
Starting Price: €13,825
PCP per month: €127.17
Also check out PCP deals from €200 or less per month, PCP deals from €250 or less per month, PCP deals from €300 or less per month, PCP deals from €350 or less per month
All prices are based on a 30% deposit. To find out more about PCP and whether it is the best option for you check out our PCP Guide.
Geraldine Herbert
19th January, 2017