They say you never forget your first car but that doesn’t always mean it conjures up positive memories, which is why it is the ensuing upgrade that often ends up being the level up you’ll look back more fondly upon.
Cheap to buy, pennies to insure and probably used, buying your first car is most definitely a momentous occasion.
But really, it is the upgrade to your first new car that will arguably elicit the more satisfying feeling as you sink into the driver’s seat to take it home.
So, in honour of those looking to trade up their wheels with something shiny and new, here Vertu submits our recommendations for your consideration… after all, nothing beats that new car smell!
CUPRA Raval
The Trendsetter
Small cars don’t get more on trend than the all-new, all-electric CUPRA Raval.
The spin-off sporty arm of Spanish manufacturer SEAT, CUPRA has quickly carved a reputation for developing fun, desirable and high-quality cars with models like the CUPRA Formentor SUV, the CUPRA Born electric family car and now the CUPRA Raval small hatchback.
The new entry-point to the CUPRA range, the Raval is based on the same MEB+ small car platform that also underpins the Volkswagen ID. Polo and Skoda Epiq.
Of the trio, however, the Raval is the more visually dramatic choice headlined by its signature copper flourishes, sharpened profile and the stylised alloy wheels that are unique for each trim.
Beyond the surface level appeal though, the Raval remains a very efficient small electric car, offering up to 273-miles of range, while it handles with the precision of a hot hatch.
Don’t just take our word for it though because Auto Express has also just awarded the Raval its 'Best Supermini' and 'Best Hot Hatch' prizes for 2026.
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BYD Dolphin G
The Funky Yet Sensible One
Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) cars are all the rage right now, so it’s perhaps no surprise to learn it has fallen to BYD to launch the first small hatchback – or supermini – equipped with both a conventional ICE and a sizeable battery.
Indeed, in a class that has to date only dabbled in Hybrid models like the Toyota Yaris and Renault Clio, the all-new BYD Dolphin G goes further by offering genuine electric-only driving of up to 65-miles (with a 18.3kWh Battery) within its impressive 646-miles of total range (petrol/electric).
Such flexibility at a lower price point makes the Dolphin G an attractive choice for those who spend much of their time commuting in the city but aren’t adverse to heading further afield on occasion.
The first car BYD has designed and engineered in Europe, the Dolphin G might be sensible under the skin but its swooping design and vivid colour choices ensure it will cut a dash on any journey.
As with all BYDs, the Dolphin G is brimming with standard kit and is comfortable to drive, while there is plenty of rear head and legroom, plus a 425-litre boot.
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Toyota Aygo X
The City Slicker
After a few lean years, the advent of electric power is seeing the city car class bounce back to full health following a litany of new launches in recent months, most notably the Renault Twingo, Hyundai INSTER and BYD Dolphin Surf.
And yet, despite this slew of new rivals, the Toyota Aygo X – which has remained present in the class for well over 20 years now – has not only refused to rest on its laurels, it has fought back with an all-new generation.
Adopting full hybrid power for the first time, the Aygo X is not only more powerful but it’s also one of the most economical fuel-powered cars on the market with up to 76mpg possible, according to Toyota.
Better yet, the update has modernised the already rugged, yet trendy looks, while – being a Toyota – the Aygo X offers a high standard of quality and reliability for the price.
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MINI Aceman
The Remixed Icon
Whether it’s the evergreen Cooper, the desirable Convertible or the rugged Countryman, buying a new MINI branded car will always be considered an upgrade.
Here, however, we’re putting the spotlight on the newest addition to the iconic British marque’s range – the MINI Aceman.
Sitting between the Cooper and the Countryman in the MINI line-up, the Aceman is a small electric SUV offered with the choice of either a 42.5kWh or 54.2kWh battery that will return up to 192 or 252-miles of range respectively.
While still unmistakably a MINI, the Aceman carves out its own unique identity and looks all the more handsome for it, while there is no faulting the impeccable quality of the stylish interior, not least that ‘dinner plate-style’ screen.
While the Aceman is a more practical option over the Cooper, it still delivers the go-kart like handling reflexes that make its sibling so popular among public and press alike.
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Dacia Sandero Stepway
The Value-Added Choice
If the time has come to replace your current car but you’re on a strict budget, it’s hard to fault the Dacia Sandero Stepway for its sheer ‘bang for buck’ value.
Indeed, Dacia has earned a famous reputation for offering big cars at affordable costs, and the Sandero Stepway is a great example of this, proving far larger than other cars in its immediate price bracket.
Perfect for families needing a modestly sized runabout to complete the runs to the school and the shops, the Sandero Stepway offers space for child seats with room to spare, has a well-sized boot and is frugal to run – all without having to spend over budget.
The Dacia Sandero range starts at under £15,000*, but we recommend splashing out a little more to get the trendier SUV-inspired Stepway trim with its slightly raised ride height, chunky bumpers and hard-wearing interior materials.
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Leapmotor B05
The Bold New Challenger
Of the many new Chinese origin brands that have landed on UK shores in recent years, it is Leapmotor that arguably proves the most intriguing new entrant.
Backed by the vast Stellantis Group – home of Vauxhall, Peugeot and Citroen among others – Leapmotor has moved quickly to bolster its all-electric/range extended line-up of models.
The latest is the Leapmotor B05, which breaks away from the typical SUV mould by setting its sights directly on small family car favourites like the Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall Astra.
To stand out among such esteemed favourites, the curvy five-door B05 not only looks great but will really pop if specified with one of several particularly vibrant colour choices available.
With over 300-miles of range, the B05 is impressively frugal, while the interior is filled with gadgets and gizmos to entertain you on ever drive.
After all, there is nothing trendier than being ahead of the curve on an up-and-coming new brand!
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*Prices correct at the time of writing – visit manufacturer pages for up-to-date live pricing
- Dacia
- Electric
- BYD
- New Cars
- MINI
- Toyota
- Cupra