Best small car for the long-term?

I'm looking to buy a small family car to keep the next seven years. In the past I've always bought 'nearly' new at 6-18 months old.

What would you recommend? I average 12k miles a year mostly on town, dual carriageway or short motorway journeys.

Asked on 28 December 2012 by steve_nw

Answered by Honest John
How small? Focus size I currently recommend a previous model Honda Civic 1.8iES or SE. Smaller, a KIA Rio or, if you like handling, a Mazda 2. Most reliable small cars are Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris.
Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
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