Thinking of buying on a PCP (Personal Contract Plan), we have five cars for €200 or less per month writes Geraldine Herbert
Honda Jazz
Honda Jazz
For 2016 the Jazz was completely revised from bumper to bumper, inside and out. It now sports a new and lighter chassis, upgraded interior quality with more space and more responsive steering. Inside cabin quality is much improved, it is also far more spacious, with better head, leg and shoulder room and Honda’s ingenious Magic Seat system means you get extra floor space if you need to carry large bulky items. Only one engine option is available, the 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a newly developed automatic CVT. The new Jazz offers space and practicality with extra equipment, reassuring levels of safety and a more efficient engine. Plus if you factor in Honda’s excellent reliability record, the Jazz really should be music to your ears.
Starting Price: €17,640
PCP per month: €189
Fiat 500C
Fiat 500c
With classic good looks and clever engineering, the Fiat 500 has become one of the most successful small cars around with almost 1.5 million sold worldwide. The 500 is available with three trim levels – Pop, Pop Star and Lounge – and in hatchback and convertible versions but its the open topped version that is most tempting. The roof is simple to get up and down and inside there is a surprising amount of space and door pockets for all your belongings. With retro and funky styling, the Fiat 500 Convertible is not only good to look at but fun to drive. Engine options include the 94bhp 1.3-litre Multijet diesel, the 0.9-litre 84bhp Twinair petrol and the 69bhp naturally- aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine. The Fiat 500 is as much a fashion accessory as a serious mode of transportation but the refreshed model blends vintage chic with technical sophistication.
Starting Price: €16,600
PCP per month: €179
Peugeot 2008
Peugeot 2008
If you are after practical family transport with a go anywhere appearance outside, decent space inside but with the running costs of a small car then the 2008 may be the one for you. The Peugeot 2008 is based on the award winning 208 but is higher, longer and wider than it’s hatchback sibling. Engine options include a 1.2 petrol or 1.4 diesel and two 1.6 diesel units. Three versions of the 2008 are offered; Access, Active and Allure and while the 2008 does not have four-wheel drive it does however come with an optional grip control system that can be fitted on Allure models giving you extra traction and confidence in mud, snow or on sand. With a very chic interior and good handling, the 2008 is one to consider in the compact SUV market.
Starting Price: €19,400
PCP per month: €191
Renault Kadjar
Renault Kadjar
Another large capacity crossover, the Kadjar is the bigger brother of the Captur and it’s main selling points are practicality and versatility; it blends a family hatchback and a compact 4×4, like the Qashqai, but with a unique Renault look. So while practicality is important in a car like this, if it is style that really counts the Kadjar does not disappoint. Inside the cabin it’s spacious; the boot can hold 527 litres and with the passenger seats down it can take loads up to 2.6m in length. There are 3 engines available – a 1.2 petrol 130bhp, 1.5 diesel 110bhp and 1.6 diesel 130bhp. The Kadjar is available as both FWD and 4WD and in 4 trim levels, Expression +, Dynamique Nav, Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav. While we’re now spoilt for choice with SUVs and crossovers the Kadjar is ideal for someone who loves the practicality of a family sized car but wants something a little different.
Starting Price: €25,190
PCP per month: €199
Opel Astra
The fifth generation Astra is lighter and smaller than its predecessor, yet inside it’s cabin is actually bigger. The keyword for this new Astra range may be economy, but there is nothing sparse about the interior and the improvements are instantly noticeable. On the road it is a far sharper drive. The all-new platform is a lot stiffer than before and the lighter weight gives the hatchback a better ride that is markedly smoother and controlled. A good choice of petrol and diesel engines is available, including Opel’s excellent 1.0- litre three-cylinder petrol currently available in both the Corsa and Adam. The Astra’s stylish good looks and cutting-edge technology make it stand out from the crowd plus its good to drive, spacious and practical.
Starting Price: €22,250
PCP per month: €197.78
Also check out PCP deals from €150 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
20th January, 2017
