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The most comfortable small car options

Here are the most comfortable small cars: ideal for those who want a laidback drive in a compact package

Volkswagen Polo side

Comfortable small cars UK

The search for the most comfortable small car isn’t without its obstacles. There’s a pretty hefty range of small cars on the market that put comfort as their main priority, so it can be tough to pick.

While you might feel extra comfortable in something luxurious (and large) like the coveted Mercedes S-Class or a Range Rover, not everyone needs that extra space (or wants to pay the premium price tag!).

We’ve put together a list of the most comfortable small cars for drivers that want something plush but don’t need all the extra baggage.

Take a look at our top picks below. 

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What are the most comfortable small cars?

Skoda Fabia

Skoda Fabia front three quarters

If you like the Volkswagen Polo but don’t like the VW price premium, the Skoda Fabia is its very capable sibling.

Built on the same platform, the Fabia is one of the most comfortable small cars for long distance driving thanks to its airy cabin. It’s got plenty of head and legroom, and the driver’s position is spot on.

It’s a practical choice that’s efficient (the 110hp 1.0-litre engine can get up to 55.5mpg) and feels silky smooth on the road. You’ll iron out those classic UK potholes with no issues.

Volkswagen ID.3

a grey volkswagen ID.3 driving on a countryside road

An electric car is often a good choice for comfort. The lack of a noisy engine means you get a very clean and quiet drive.

You’ll appreciate the cushy suspension, and the electric range of up to 347 miles on a full charge means you won’t have to stop often to charge up.

There’s also the option of a Comfort Pack. This adds features like heated seats, rain sensors, and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror.

The VW ID.3 is also small but still spacious. There’s a 385-litre boot at the rear that’s impressive for a car with so much extra tech on board.

Honda Civic

Honda Civic driving

The Honda Civic is such a great all-rounder. It has a big boot (410 litres), isn’t fuel hungry (56.5mpg from the e:HEV hybrid), and has a plush interior.

The Japanese quality is made very clear by how comfy this car is for the driver and passengers, and it has a nice and high driving position for a car of this size – great for visibility.

There’s a 9.0-inch infotainment system that’s easy to use, and you still get plenty of knobs and buttons for climate controls and other features. And, the SE and SR trims get extra features like heated seats and heated door mirrors that make it even more comfortable to live with.

Volkswagen Polo

Orange sixth generation VW Polo

We mentioned the Volkswagen Polo earlier as the Fabia’s sibling, and it’s worth considering if you like a bit of VW glam.

The cabin is particularly spacious with plenty of headroom and space to stretch your legs. Even back seat passengers will feel comfortable on long drives.

There are some plushy extras in the Polo as well, like ambient lighting (on SEL models and above) and adjustable lumbar support.

Features differ depending on the year and model you choose, so check the spec of the exact Polo you’re considering.

SEAT Ibiza

SEAT Ibiza front

The SEAT Ibiza is easily one of the most comfortable small car options on the market, and its great value for money – makes sense since it’s basically a Polo with more Spanish flair.

It’s a tidy, do-it-all kind of car, with a hard-wearing but cosy interior and plenty of front and back space.

Depending on the model, there are features across the range that include rear parking sensors, rain sensing wipers, and an easy-to-use infotainment system that all make for a laidback drive.

You’re not even restricted by the boot, as you’ll have a 355-litre space that can extend to 1,165 litres with the seats folded. Read our SEAT Ibiza review

Ford Fiesta

A magnetic silver Ford Fiesta ST

It wouldn’t be a ‘best of small cars’ list without a mention of the Ford Fiesta. It’s easily one of the most comfortable small cars on UK roads – although now discontinued and only available on the used market.

The Fiesta cabin is spacious in the front and rear, and there’s up to 311 litres of boot space depending on the model you choose.

If you want to ramp up homely interior, the Fiesta Comfort Pack adds heated front seats and steering wheel.

What to look out for in a comfy small car

The most comfortable small car picks will all have things in common, and those are typically a smooth ride, plenty of space, supportive seating, and mod-cons like heated seats.

Comfort is an individual thing, so you might want to make a list of the must-have features for your comfy car before taking the front-runners for a test drive.

We’d recommend considering the less obvious things, like the ergonomics of the interior and climate controls, which all contribute to a relaxing and enjoyable drive.

Boot space is also handy for a cosy car since you won’t need to cram any extra luggage in the rear footwells. It keeps things airy and spacious.

What about considering an electric option, like the VW ID.3 for a cleaner and smoother drive?

There’s plenty to consider when it comes to finding your ideal car.

Find used comfortable small cars

The most comfortable small car is the one that ticks all your boxes – but these are some of our faves.

Small doesn’t have to mean cramped and uncomfortable, so you can steer clear of a hefty SUVs if they aren’t really your style.

Take a look at our full range of used cars to find more options.

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