Thinking of buying on a PCP (Personal Contract Plan), we have five cars for €350 or less per month writes Geraldine Herbert
BMW 1 series
BMW 1 series
BMW’s baby Beemer is still one of most impressive hatchbacks on the road. Available in three or five door versions and three trim levels. There are a host of diesel and petrol engines to choose from and regardless of which you opt for its still one of the most engaging cars to drive from the frugal to the blisteringly fast. This BMW is one for the single person or a couple without kids, so if you have yearned for the BMW badge and renowned driving dynamics but with a reasonable price tag then this may just be the choice for you.
Starting Price: €29,910
PCP Per month: €306
Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-5
Due for replacement soon but still the SUV of choice if you wanted something that has the practicality and space of an MPV but with really good performance and economy. With rugged styling outside inside the CX-5 can seat five people in comfort and if a family car is measured on how much stuff it can hold then the 505-litre capacity boot is a decent size.The CX-5 is offered in front wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions. Engine options include 2.0 Petrol (165ps) and a 2.2 Diesel (150ps and 175ps) in both manual and automatic. There are three trim levels available – Executive, Executive SE and Platinum but each is well-equipped no matter which version you go for.
Starting Price: €27,995
PCP per month: €304
Kia Niro
Kia Niro
Kia’s latest model, Niro is the Korean Car makers first hybrid and sits between the Sportage, the Cee’d hatchback in the Kia line-up. Using a similar system to the Toyota Prius, the Niro combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 32kW electric motor. With CO2 emissions as low as 88g/km and fuel consumption of 3.8 litres/100km it rivals many frugal diesels as a credible alternative. Outside the Niro has chunky styling and a high ride height while inside the layout will be familiar to any Kia owner. Aimed at family buyers there is plenty of space both front and back and the location of the battery means the boot is a good size. On the road the Niro rides well and there is little body roll when you corner. If you are looking for a spacious, refined and easy to drive SUV that happens to be cheap to run, Kia’s newest addition is worth checking out.
Starting Price: €29,095
PCP per month: €303
Honda CR-V
Honda CR-V
If you’ve swapped city living for a life in the countryside, you’ll love the CR-V. For 2015 it was redesigned with a new diesel engine, 9 speed auto gearbox and a more engaging and refined driving experience. There is one engine available in the CR-V – a 1.6 i-DTEC – but this is available as 120bhp in the 2wd version and 160bhp in the 4wd and Auto versions. Gearbox options include a 6 speed manual and 9 speed auto box. This 1.6 engine replaces the previous 2.2 i-DTEC with more power, the same torque levels and lower emissions. The Compact SUV market is certainly a crowded one as motorists eagerly embrace these smaller wallet friendly crossovers. The 1.6 litre option is super frugal plus the CR-V is extremely spacious and ideal for anyone who covers long motorway miles or needs to move the family around with ease and in style.
Starting Price: €32,575
PCP per month: €339
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
BMW offers two people carriers, the five seat Active Tourer designed to appeal to young families who want a little more space while the Gran Tourer is all about those crucial seven seats. At 214mm longer than the Active Tourer there is decent space for three kids in the Gran Tourer, each with individual isofix mountings and the optional third row can also accommodate two child seats. Inside both there is also a huge amount of cubby holes and storage areas, where children’s toys and books can be stowed easily, along with a host of other family friendly features. On the road both are certainly a more rewarding drive than many rivals so if driving dynamics is high on your list, the Active or Gran Tourer may be a pricey option but will definitely be a tempting alternative. New to the range is the hybrid BMW 225xe Active Tourer. If you’re moving to an MPV from something more sporty, then this could be the car that makes the switch just a little bit easier. The Tourer is stylish inside and out and good to drive but is pricey compared to rivals.
Starting Price: €33,440
PCP per month: €321
Also check out PCP deals from €150 or less per month , PCP deals from €200 or less per month, PCP deals from €250 or less per month, PCP deals from €300 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
17th February, 2017
