2018 (182) Fiat 500X

Considering this topsy-turvy history of automotive reinvention, the outstanding triumph of the Fiat 500 is all the more impressive. With hugely successful small cars such as the Panda, Uno and Seicento nestling in the Fiat back-catalogue, the 500 had a lot to live up to. It was released in 2007 amid great fanfare and quickly heralded as one of the best designs of the decade thanks to its cute retro looks. The 500 X is a much beefier version of the 500 for those looking for a bit of extra room. The boot is certainly large enough for a family, with a low load lip and easily folding split rear seats. There is also plenty of head and leg room for both front and rear passengers. The driving position is quite low down and sporty for a car of this size and there is a decent level of standard equipment which includes air conditioning and cruise control. Visibility is excellent and the driving experience is enjoyable thanks to the 1.6 diesel engine most Irish buyers plumped for thanks to its fine mix of frugality and finesse.