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cheapest car to drive in 2025
Owning a car comes with costs attached. Not just the purchase price, but also road tax, insurance, fuel and maintenance all add up.
The amounts below are based on average consumption, insurance, standard maintenance for a 35-year-old driver with no-claims bonus. The costs may vary depending on where you live and how you drive.
1. Hyundai i10 – about €325 a month
The Hyundai i10 is a favourite for those who want to drive cheaply. This compact car is light, which is an advantage for road tax. Insurance and maintenance are also low-priced for this car. The engine is economical, especially in city traffic.
- Road tax: €20 a month
- Insurance (third party, fire & theft): €55 a month
- Fuel (petrol, 1:20): €100 a month
- Maintenance: €30 a month
- Total: €325 a month
2. Toyota Aygo X – about €335 a month
The Toyota Aygo X is the successor to the popular Aygo. This small crossover is surprisingly efficient and light. The insurance is a bit more expensive than the i10, but the low maintenance costs make up for it. The Aygo X is particularly suitable for those who mainly drive in the city.
- Road tax: €24 a month
- Insurance: €60 a month
- Fuel (petrol, 1:22): €90 a month
- Maintenance: €30 a month
- Total: €335 a month
3. Dacia Sandero – about €345 a month
The Dacia Sandero may be the cheapest car to buy, but it is a bit heavier so you pay more road tax. In return it offers plenty of space and is reliable. The Sandero is ideal for those who occasionally travel longer distances.
- Road tax: €35 a month
- Insurance: €55 a month
- Fuel (petrol, 1:18): €110 a month
- Maintenance: €30 a month
- Total: €345 a month
4. Suzuki Swift Hybrid – about €360 a month
The Swift comes as standard with a mild hybrid system, which really keeps fuel use down. This makes the car a good choice for people who often drive outside the city as well. The hybrid technology makes maintenance a little pricier, but you save on fuel.
- Road tax: €28 a month
- Insurance: €60 a month
- Fuel (petrol, 1:23): €85 a month
- Maintenance: €40 a month
- Total: €360 a month
5. Kia Picanto – about €340 a month
The Kia Picanto remains popular thanks to its reliability and low maintenance costs. This car is also very economical to run. Insurance and tax are average, but you get a lot for your money, especially with the base version.
- Road tax: €22 a month
- Insurance: €58 a month
- Fuel (petrol, 1:21): €95 a month
- Maintenance: €35 a month
- Total: €340 a month
What should you look out for when choosing a cheap car?
If you are searching for the cheapest car to run, don’t just look at fuel consumption. An economical car can still be costly because of insurance or maintenance.
- Weight of the car: this affects the road tax.
- Fuel type: diesel is usually cheaper per litre, but you pay more tax.
- Reliability: cars that almost never break down will save you from unexpected costs.
- Depreciation: some cars lose value more slowly.
