How can we make such a bold claim? Because this list isn’t just based on our opinion. We’ve pulled together tens of millions of key data points on every new car (as well as a growing number of near-new used cars), including more than 16,000 new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s top motoring websites. We also factor in complete safety data from Euro NCAP, reliability data and five-year running cost information.

All this adds up to the most comprehensive analysis of expert opinion and real-world data found anywhere in the motoring world.

Despite the explosion in SUV sales over the last few years, small hatchbacks are still the best-selling cars in the UK. Small cars can be divided into two categories, known as city cars and superminis. City cars are smaller and (usually) cheaper, and will often be three-door hatchbacks. Superminis are larger and are usually five-door hatchbacks.

Despite all of the publicity about SUVs and crossovers, UK car buyers still love small hatchbacks and buy thousands of them every year. The long-time sales champ, the Ford Fiesta, is no more but the Vauxhall Corsa and ever-fashionable Mini Cooper consistently feature in the best-sellers list each year.

Small cars are divided into two basic types –  the smallest, such as the Fiat 500, Kia Picanto and Hyundai i10 are known as city cars. Often available with only three doors, they are the cheapest cars on the market and a popular choice for first-time drivers with the money to buy new. However, the number of choices in this segment is rapidly dwindling.

Superminis such as the Renault Clio, SEAT Ibiza, Vauxhall Corsa or Volkswagen Polo are slightly larger than city cars. While three-door superminis were for many years offered as budget options they’ve now virtually died out – these days five doors are standard on almost all of the wide choice of models around.

Petrol engines are still the most popular option in both the city car and supermini markets, although we’re starting to see a lot more electric models hitting the streets now. You won’t find a worthwhile small car fitted with a diesel engine anymore, though.