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.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
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  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

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.

Require more help?

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!

10 Most Popular Cars in 2023

Red Nissan Qashqai

Whether you’re driving the A1 between London and Edinburgh or cruising along a country backroad, you’ll quickly notice some makes and models are far more popular than others. Thinking of investing in a new car this year? Don’t miss our roundup of the top 10 most popular cars on British roads. They’re bestsellers for a reason which means you really can’t go wrong when you get behind the wheel of one of these models.

The roundup is based on the latest vehicle registration data from Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Results reveal the most popular cars 2023 registered in the first half of the year.

1. Ford Puma – 22,765

With a huge 22,765 models sold in the first half of 2023, the Ford Puma is one of the most popular cars on British roads. The crossover SUV builds on the success of the Fiesta and won over drivers with a spacious interior and enormous boot. It’s so grand Top Gear legend Jeremy Clarkson called it a “megabox” in a recent review and was seriously impressed with the washable cover. Anyone loading wet dogs, muddy sports gear or dusty camping equipment into their boots will love this feature.

Connectivity is top-notch thanks to the integrated SYNC 3 technology that enables voice-activated phone, communication and navigation features. Whether you need to search for directions or lineup your favourite tunes, the Ford Puma allows you to customise your driving experience without taking your eyes off the road.

2. Vauxhall Corsa – 21,208

With just over 21,000 sales in the first half of 2023, the Vauxhall Corsa is hot on the heels of the Ford Puma. No surprises here seeing as the Corsa was crowned one of the most popular cars of 2022. The compact hatchback is classed as a supermini and is adored by urban drivers. Whether you’re manoeuvring into a parallel parking spot or pulling off a tight turn, the Vauxhall Corsa makes city driving a cinch. There’s even an updated all-electric version with an impressive range of 222 miles per charge.

3. Nissan Qashqai – 19,983

Like the Vauxhall Corsa, the Nissan Qashqai was one of the most popular cars of 2022 and continued its reign in the first half of 2023. The compact SUV offers all the space, power and practicality of a large vehicle, without excess bulk. When it comes to crossovers, you can’t go wrong with this bestselling model. The first-generation Qashqai hit roads in 2006 which means there’s plenty of choice on the second-hand market. Even better, the model is built right here in the UK. Sunderland to be precise. This makes it an excellent choice for patriotic motorists. 

4. Tesla Model Y – 19,551

When it comes to the all-electric market the Tesla Model Y dominates British roads. Almost 20,000 were registered in the first half of 2023 and numbers are only expected to grow over the coming months. The model builds on the success of the Model 3 with a spacious interior and hatchback SUV design. Then there’s Tesla’s impressive Supercharger network, which features more than 1,000 stations across the UK.

5. Hyundai Tucson – 18,678

Comparable to the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai, the Hyundai Tucson is one of the most popular cars 2023 for families. The latest model raises the bar with a sleek exterior, luxurious cabin and loads of technology, including a sharp digital instrument display and interactive touchscreen controls. A variety of engine choices, including petrol, diesel, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, helped secure the Hyundai Tucson a spot as one of the most popular cars in the UK.

6. Nissan Juke – 18,380

Following in the tracks of the Qashqai, the smaller and zippier Juke is the second Nissan model to make the roundup of the most popular cars 2023. Now in its second generation, the compact crossover is popular with motorists in search of value for money and excellent fuel economy. Like the Qashqai, the Juke is built at the Nissan factory in Sunderland which gives it a British edge.

7. Kia Sportage – 18,057

Completely revamped in 2022, the Kia Sportage stormed into 2023 with gusto. Contemporary styling, luxurious interior materials and lots of cutting-edge technology earned the affordable family SUV a place on the most popular cars roundup. As well as combustion engines, the Sportage is offered as a plug-in hybrid with a 1.6-litre petrol engine and 13.8kWh battery. This option has been a hit with motorists looking to save at the forecourt and reduce their environmental footprints.

8. Mini Hatch – 15,892

Brits have loved Minis since the 1950s and nothing has changed. More than 15,800 Mini Hatch models were registered in the first half of 2023, all built right here in the UK. Motorists are sitting tight for the updated version set to launch in 2024, which will likely continue to boost sales of the bestselling model.

9. Ford Fiesta – 15,359

While production of the Ford Fiesta has now stopped, it didn’t stop the model from stepping up as one of the most popular cars 2023. The most recent seventh generation model was one of the best ever with intuitive handling, great fuel economy and loads of tech features.

10. Vauxhall Mokka – 14,996

Sporty and modern, the Vauxhall Mokka sold almost 15,000 units in the first half of 2023. Comparable to the Nissan Juke and Ford Puma, the compact SUV won over buyers with a wide range of engine types, trim levels and optional extras.

Get behind the wheel of bestsellers with My Car Credit

Want to see what all the fuss is about? Give My Car Credit a call today to discuss auto finance for any of the most popular cars listed above. Many make great first vehicles, so why not use our car finance eligibility guide to find out more about requirements like age, residency, employment and credit score.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

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.

Require more help?

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!

10 Best British Road Trips for Staycations

British Seaside Town

International holidays are always a treat but if you’re looking for something fun, affordable and lowkey, nothing beats a staycation. With so many beautiful destinations at your doorstep, why not keep things local with British road trips? To get you inspired, we’ve put together a collection of our favourite road trip ideas, from castle hopping in Wales to fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast.

1. Castle hopping in Wales

With no less than 427 castles dotted across the country, it’s no wonder Wales is nicknamed The Land of Castles. From iconic strongholds like Caernarfon to hidden gems like Picton, a castle hopping road trip around Wales is one of the best British road trips for history buffs. 

2. Puffin hunting in the Shetland Islands

Every summer, thousands of puffins descend on the Shetland Islands to breed. Visitors from around the world flock to see the adorable birds, along with other species like razorbills, guillemots, shags, kittiwakes and fulmars. The Sumburgh Cliffs on the South Mainland peninsula is one of the best places to view puffins. There’s also a good chance to spot sea mammals, including dolphins, seals, porpoise and, if you’re really lucky, orca. Insider tip: Drive up to the viewing platforms at Sumburgh Head Lighthouse for uninterrupted views over the coast.

3. Chase waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales

Throw on a little TLC and set off on a waterfall chasing adventure in the Yorkshire Dales. The Ingleton Waterfall Trail takes in a series of stunning cascades, including Thornton Force which cascades 14 metres down a moss-covered limestone cliff.

4. Admire wildflowers in the Peak District

When it comes to quintessential British charm, nowhere compares to the Peak District. While it’s beautiful throughout the year, spring sees the meadows carpeted in colourful wildflowers. The walking is spectacular, with routes for every age and fitness level. And of course, there are some incredible scenic drives to discover, making it a top destination for British road trips. Snake Pass is a must, climbing almost 1700 feet above sea level. Live out your favourite Pride and Prejudice moments at Chatsworth House and stop for a cream tea in the postcard-perfect village of Edale.

5. A winter escape on the North Coast 500

Nowhere does dramatic scenery quite like Scotland. The North Coast 500 takes in some of the most stunning landscapes in the Highlands. Start in Inverness and continue on to Loch Ness, where you’ll be amazed by the ink-blue water and mist-veiled mountains. If you have time, zip across to the Isle of Skye. Stay the night in a quaint fishermen’s cottage in Ullapool and be amazed by gleaming white-sand beaches in Wester Ross. Needless to say, you’ll pass plenty of cosy pubs on this British road trips route. Be sure to warm up with haggis, neeps, tatties and a dram of single-malt whiskey.

6. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for 1500 miles along the coast from Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. It’s worth taking your time on this road trip as the scenery is stunning. Take a dip in the crystal-clear water at Port Arthur Beach and learn to surf in the laidback seaside resort of Bundoran. Spend the night in Galway and check out the thriving arts and music scene before continuing on to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. Your last stop will be Kinsale, a picturesque town famous for its brightly painted houses, centuries-old forts and incredible food.

7. Sticky Toffee Pudding Pilgrimage in the Lake District 

The Lake District isn’t just a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the birthplace of Britain’s favourite dessert – sticky toffee pudding. While there is some dispute over exactly where the treat was invented, Cumbria makes a pretty legitimate claim. The dessert features on menus across the county and is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla custard or even better, clotted cream.

The tiny village of Cartmel is a mecca for dessert lovers, with the best establishments using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Beyond sticky toffee pudding, the Lake District offers beautiful walking routes. Ideal for burning off the calories! Autumn is an especially beautiful time to plan British road trips to the Lake District. The changing of the seasons makes the landscapes glow in reds, yellows and golds.

8. Jurassic Coast

Travelling with kids? British road trips to the Jurassic Coast are a fantastic way to spend a week of the school holidays. This 95-mile stretch of Southern England will capture your imagination with long sandy beaches, towering cliffs and rolling green countryside. And of course, fossils galore. Lyme Regis is one of the best places to hunt for fossils. You’ll also find family-friendly museums and some excellent ice cream parlours.

9. Winnie the Pooh in Sussex

Another great road trip for kids, Ashdown Forest in Sussex transports you to Hundred Acre Wood. The little ones will squeal with delight as they explore the forest that captured the imagination of beloved British author, A. A. Milne. Play Pooh sticks by the river, gaze up at the towering Scots pine trees and indulge in afternoon tea at adorable Pooh Corner in Hartfield.

10. Wine tasting in Surrey

You don’t need to cross the Channel to France to enjoy award-winning wine. Vineyard hopping around Surrey is one of the top British road trips for wine lovers. The county is dotted with boutique vineyards where you can try amazing homegrown wines. Chalky soil and lashings of sunshine make the terroir virtually identical to the famous Champagne region in France. This makes for some seriously good sparkling. You can also expect to see plenty of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay on tasting menus.

Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re shopping for your first car or want to upgrade to a newer model, we have you covered with competitive finance plans from a variety of lenders. We’ll help you get approved for car finance, so you can pack your bags and enjoy the best British road trips. Want to be sure you’ll be accepted? Try our car finance eligibility checker to find out – without any impact on your credit rating.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

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.

Require more help?

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!