|
As an ex Ignis owner, I'd point out a major caveat which is regarding the type of auto transmission. Pre-facelift (up to Nov 2020) used something called AGS, which is a single clutch automated manual (essentially a manual gearbox with the gearshifts done automatically) and it really wasn't a nice thing to use. Juddering when cold, slow and ponderous changes, the fact that the gearbox frequently seemed to be in the wrong gear for whatever situation you were in, and i found it borderline hazardous in a multi-storey car park. So while I absolutely loved our Ignis in most areas, I wouldn't get an auto unless I could afford the post-facelift which used a CVT. Sadly, going by Autotrader, £11k won't get you into one of them, cheapest one listed (nationwide) is £12,750, next cheapest is over £14k!.
The Vitara mentioned above is a great shout and very reliable, but I'll also put forward the Hyundai ix20 and Kia Venga (these are the same car barring some minor trim and styling differences). These are longer than an Ignis but shorter than a Vitara, they are also reliable and very easy to drive and park. Ideally you'd want a 2015 on facelifted model which got a a six speed auto (replacing a 4 speed) making it nicer to drive and (a little) more efficient.
As for electric?, if you can't charge at home or work, it isn't ideal due to the cost of public charging. But if you can charge at home or work, then yes, absolutely. Renault Zoe is the obvious choice for something quite small but with a higher driving position. It is about the same size as the aforementioned ix20/Venga pair (so bigger than an Ignis, but still pretty small) but when I went to have a look at one I was concerned at the lack of space for rear passengers feet, so make sure you check that. Also make sure you know whether the car you are looking at has a leased battery (that was an option when new to make the car appear more affordable). There are other electric options within you budget, but I cant think any which have both a high driving position and are anywhere near as short as the Zoe (never mind the Ignis!)
If you really want something as short as an Ignis, with a high driving position and a decent auto transmission, all I can think of are the Suzuki Splash/Vauxhall Agila (2nd gen). Like the ix20/Venga, these are the same cars barring badges and are very reliable. Youngest of either is going to be 2014, but they are a car generally bought by people who look after them meticulously, drive them gently, and don't cover many miles, so I wouldn't worry too much about the age.
|
