Best Car for Commuting: 10 Top Picks

Car lights at night

Whether your commute lasts 10 minutes or an hour plus, a well-appointed car can completely transform your commute. At My Car Credit we’re committed to helping Brits choose the best cars for their needs, which is why we’ve put together this best car for commuting roundup. From fuel efficient superminis to luxury saloons, we’ve cherry-picked cars for every commuter.

1. Citroen Ami – Best Innovator

Looking for an all-electric commuter car that won’t break the bank? The Citroen Ami isn’t just one of the most affordable EVs in the UK. It’s also one of the best-priced cars, period. Prices start at just under £8,000 which makes the model incredible value for money.

Yes, it comes with a bit of a catch. It’s technically an electric quadricycle and cleverly marketed as a mobility solution, as opposed to an EV. But that doesn’t stop it from being one of our best car for commuting picks. Powered by a 5.5kWh battery, this pocket rocket can reach speeds of up to 28mph and offers up to 46 miles of range on a single charge. An impressive turning circle of just 7.2 metres makes pulling off tight urban manoeuvres a cinch. Even better, it charges in just four hours.

2. Skoda Superb Estate – Best Hybrid

The Skoda Superb Estate is an eco-conscious hybrid model that’s made our best car for commuting roundup. The plug-in hybrid version offers around 40 miles of electric range – more than enough for longer commutes. If you need to drive further the petrol engine kicks in and gets you there. In terms of design, the Skoda Superb Estate is sleek enough to feel at home in the city and spacious enough for family road trips.

3. BMW i3 – Best Luxury EV

Compact yet luxurious, the BMW i3 is has earned its place on our best car for commuting list. The 170hp electric motor delivers instant power, making it easy to accelerate on the motorway or switch lanes in a pinch.

Behind the body is a sleek interior featuring luxe, eco-friendly materials like eucalyptus wood. A clean and uncluttered dash makes it easy to focus when you’re navigating city traffic. Enjoy up to 160 miles of range and at-home charging costs of around £6. Buy new or pick up a second-hand BMW i3 for under £30,000.

4. Ford Focus – Best Value for Money

Reliable and affordable, it’s hard to beat the Ford Focus when it comes to value for money. If you’re looking for a commuter car that will get you from A to B without a fuss, you can’t go wrong with this zippy model. Now in its fourth generation, this British bestseller comes in a variety of petrol and diesel options, as well as hybrid option for those looking to slash CO2 emissions.

5. Nissan Juke – Best Head Turner

Some motorists like to blend in on the roads and others love to turn heads. If you fall into the latter category, you’ll swoon over the Nissan Juke. This SUV stands out with a boxy design and unique styling. Enjoy unsurpassed visibility thanks to the high driving position and loads of tech like an interactive touchscreen media system and Bluetooth connectivity for higher trim levels. The Juke was reinvented in 2019 which means there are plenty of deals to be had for past-generation models.

6. Tesla Model 3 – Best EV

With impressive range of up to 374 miles, the Tesla Model 3 is ideal for commutes and road trips alike. Skip the forecourt and cruise straight to the office, with zero congestion zone charges. The electric drivetrain is whisper-quiet on the motorway and practically purrs along urban streets.

Tesla has packed the Model 3 with advanced driver-assist technology which makes it the best car for commuting after a long day at work. When your focus starts to slip, the Model 3 has your back. Use your car for work and play? Boot capacity of 425 litres makes the Tesla Model 3 a practical choice for weekends away. Pack it with everything from butter-soft leather weekender bags to back-to-basics camping gear.

7. Audi A6 – Best Luxury Saloon

Audi has once again mastered the art of understated luxury in the A6. You’ll feel pleased as punch pulling up to the office in this upmarket saloon. Choose the petrol-powered hybrid model and you’ll enjoy just over 30 miles of electric range in a single trip. If you want a vehicle that combines the flexibility of petrol with the environmental and cost-saving credentials of EV technology, the Audi A6 is one of the best cars for commuting.

8. BMW 5 Series – Best Driver Experience

Transition from the city to the countryside with ease in the BMW 5 Series. The executive saloon is now in its eight generation and classier than ever. It’s sleek, sporty and boasts all the signature design elements that BMW drivers covet. Think an extended wheelbase, oversized bonnet and fluid roof silhouette. The infotainment system is unrivalled and makes the daily commute a pleasure.

9. Kia Sportage – Best Allrounder

SUVs are incredibly practical for weekends but can be a headache when it comes to city driving. The Kia Sportage is the perfect compromise, with a compact design that offers all the space and power of an SUV, without the extra bulk. It’s relatively affordable to run and offers excellent MPG numbers considering its status as a mid-sized SUV. As well as commuting to and from work, the Kia Sportage steps up for school runs, supermarket shops, weekend road trips and more.   

10. Peugeot 208 – Best for Fuel Efficiency

Loved by motorists across Europe, the Peugeot 208 is one of the most fuel efficient internal combustion engine cars on the market. Unlock up to 72 MPG and keep your CO2 emissions as low as 110g/km. If you’re not quite ready to make the switch to an EV but want to save money at the forecourt, the Peugeot 208 is the best car for commuting.

Elevate your commute with My Car Credit

With the right car, commutes don’t have to be a drag. Whether you covet comfort, style or practicality, we’re here to help you get approved for auto finance and secure the keys to your dream car. Want to know more about eligibility? We’ve written a guide to answer “will I get accepted for car finance”, where we cover important information like the difference between soft and hard searches.

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Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

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Is It Easy to Learn to Drive an Automatic Car?

Woman learning to drive an automatic car

According to the RAC, an average learner needs 45 hours of driving lessons and a minimum of 20 hours of private practice to pass a driving test. The more time spent on the road, the more familiar learner drivers will be with navigating potential hazards.

But if you’re looking to pass your driving test as swiftly as possible, it will be easier to learn to drive in an automatic vehicle.

Are automatic cars easier to learn to drive?

It’s easier to learn to drive in an automatic compared to a manual vehicle. You don’t have to manage either gears or clutch control, which makes it much easier to learn to drive an automatic vehicle as a result.

Other benefits to automatic cars include their relative fuel efficiency (compared to manual vehicles), and they’re also easier to drive in urban spaces where you’ll likely have many stop-start journeys.

However, driving lessons in an automatic may be more expensive – although you’ll likely need fewer than in a manual, as the learning process will be shorter. If you only learn on an automatic license, you also won’t ever be able to drive a manual car.

It may be more expensive to insure an automatic car, as they tend to be in a higher risk bracket, and repair parts are costly compared to their manual counterparts. Younger drivers may also find it easier to locate a manual car in their search for the ideal first car, both in terms of the price and variety on offer.

Further questions?

If you’re a learner driver deciding whether to acquire an automatic or manual license and have further questions, get in contact with My Car Credit today on 01246 458 810. We’ll help you establish your car finance eligibility and address any other queries you may have.


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Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

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Are Automatic Cars More Expensive?

Automatic car gearbox - more expensive?

If you’re looking to get a new vehicle, there are many factors that will impact your final decision. One of the biggest considerations is choosing whether to purchase an automatic or manual vehicle.

Automatic cars have many benefits, but they are more costly to purchase than manual vehicles. So, why exactly are automatic cars more expensive? Read on to learn more…

Automatic vs. manual

If you’re driving a manual car, you’re in charge of the vehicle’s gearbox and clutch. With automatic cars, there are generally only four ‘modes’ of travel, and two pedals – one for accelerating and one for braking. The car itself changes gear according to the speed at which you’re travelling.

There are advantages and disadvantages to an automatic, and whether it’s right for you will depend on your needs and preferences.

Automatic vehicles – the benefits

Better for traffic

If you’re in an urban area with traffic, your journeys will be stop-start. Constantly remaining on the clutch can be tiring and could cause leg ache.

Plus, automatics are safer. The automatic transmission means there’s little risk of stalling, and you don’t have to take your hands off the wheel in order to change gear. This makes navigating tricky junctions easier, allowing you to focus on the hazards of the road.

Fuel efficient

If you’re looking to purchase a newer automatic vehicle, these tend to be more fuel efficient than their manual counterparts.

Plus, the government’s 2030 petrol ban means that new petrol and diesel car sales are ending soon in favour of EVs, which don’t have gearboxes and therefore work like automatics. Manual cars are going to become increasingly phased out over time, to be replaced with EVs and second-hand automatics. Purchasing an automatic vehicle is ultimately a more future-proof decision than purchasing a manual.

Automatic vehicles – the drawbacks

License limitations

If you only have an automatic license, you can only drive automatic vehicles. To drive a manual, you’d need to take another driving test.

Less control

An automatic vehicle will change gears for you according to your speed. So, if you’re a driver who prefers to stay in control, you’ll find automatic vehicles frustrating.

More expensive

Automatic cars are more expensive to purchase – and are also often more expensive to insure.

Why are automatic cars more expensive?

Automatic gear boxes are more complex than manual counterparts, because they rely on automatic transmission. As a result, they’re more expensive to produce, and the overall pricing of the vehicle reflects this.

It also means that automatic cars are more expensive to repair, and may even require more costly breakdown cover as a result of mechanical particularities or towing limitations. This results in a higher insurance premium for automatic cars too.

Take the expense out of automatic cars

Find out how My Car Credit can help you fund your purchase of an automatic vehicle. Use our car finance calculator for a no-obligation quote and start your journey towards securing affordable car finance that suits your needs today.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with our team on 01246 458 810 or enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.


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X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.
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Commuter Cars – The Future of Commuting Post Lockdown

Man in office after commuting to work

Now that increasing numbers of people are being vaccinated, companies are starting to reconsider the return to office working. But what does this mean for commuting and commuter cars?

Well, the post lockdown commuting landscape could look different in a number of ways which are as-yet undetermined. However, it’s worth being aware of what commuting might look like in the coming months. With this in mind, you can make a decision on whether or not to keep hold of your commuting car, or make the move to other forms of public transport.

Changing peak travel on public transport

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, public transport across the UK has had to spring into action. Trains, trams, buses, and underground networks have continued to work for essential workers who’ve had to attend jobs throughout the pandemic. This has resulted in a dramatically intensified cleaning schedule so that commuters have felt and continue to feel safe.  

As office workers anticipate a return to at least some in-office working, public transport will have to adapt to remain an environment that people feel safe using. The impact of changes to standard working practice have already been felt by these networks. Due to workers attempting to spread the travel time out to maintain social distancing, peak travel hours have moved from 7am to as early as 5am 

Flexible working hours have also been implemented as a post lockdown work strategy. This is in order to manage rush hour on roads and public transport.

Moving away from public transport

Public transport has been a lifeline for some during the pandemic. However, Motor One reports that 76% of those who had used public transport pre-pandemic are now keen to use different methods of travel to get into work. This may result in increased commuters using personal vehicles to make their commute. The importance of a comfortable commuting car will therefore increase. Consequentially, drivers are more willing to splash extra cash on a vehicle that will get them to work in comfort – and avoid public transport.

Alternatively, commuters might avoid the perils of public transport by turning to cycling in order to get to work. This is particularly likely in larger cities like London. These are consistently undergoing huge infrastructural changes to ensure the city is as cycling-friendly as possible. Reuters reports that city planners are becoming increasingly focussed on diversifying ways of commuting. For example, introducing e-scooters to planning smart roads so as to prevent CO2 levels from soaring. If increased numbers of commuters opt to use these diverse methods of travelling to work, a commuting car will become a less important feature in these commuters’ lives.

The commuting car: downsize or upsize?

While many people are aiming to avoid public transport post-lockdown, there’s also the issue that commuting as a whole may remain at lower levels. As reported by City AM, recent research by Transport Focus has shown that commuters believe their jobs will become increasingly home-based with limited travel into offices. With a greater number of people working from home, the commuting car could become a less important feature in some workers’ lives.

It’s possible that drivers will look to downsize their vehicle as a result. After all, there’s no point in paying premium on policies or regularly upgrading your car’s model if you’re less likely to be driving it regularly.

People Management has even floated the possibility of employers lending cars. This would allow employees to travel to and from work safely if they are neither able nor willing to commute via public transport. The discussion also included the suggestion that employers provide facilities such as free parking. As a result, the commute would be less stressful for workers who choose or have to drive into work.

A note on car insurance

If you’re planning to make the move to commuting via car, don’t forget to check your car insurance policy. You need to be clear that you’re covered for commuting journeys, even if your travel is as short as driving to the nearby station.

Talk to My Car Credit today

Whether you’re looking to downsize to a fuel-efficient vehicle for commuting, or just invest in a new car so you don’t need to get public transport, My Car Credit is on hand to help. Our car finance calculator can give you a clear estimate of how much commuting car finance will cost based on the amount you want to borrow, the timeframe and a broad idea of your credit rating.

Try it today and don’t hesitate to contact our team if you have any questions at all

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

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Related articles

How Quickly Can You Buy a Car?

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5 Best Car Picks for Elderly Drivers

Read More

What’s the Best Month to Buy a Car?

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My Credit Rating

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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.
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Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

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or call 01246 458 810