For someone who needs a new car, but is on a budget, the Ford Fiesta is a very good option. Many years ago, I used to own a Ford Escort, of which the Fiesta is the worthy successor model. The engine is nice and zippy and responsive, the fuel economy is great, and the overall functionality and feel of the Fiesta matches its price and value. Someday, I will upgrade to a higher-priced vehicle, but for now, the Ford Fiesta is a practical option that works very well for me.

This current model is the seventh generation of the supermini. You’ll be relieved to hear it bears almost no relation to the first. That was a right biscuit box and looked like a drawing of what a car might be (by a child who was bad at art). It was about as aerodynamic as a brick. Today those folded-paper edges have been replaced by sweeping curves and wraparound finishing. The Fiesta today has perfect proportions, so it’s hard to guess its scale. It looks quite big in the picture, but on the road it is remarkably neat and tidy – like one of those muscly little gymnasts.