Not aware of a definitive list, but I would suggest Nissan Note, Suzuki Splash and Vauxhall Agila for now.

Edit: I think you could add some Mazda2s and Fiestas, and older Hyundais and Kias.

Edited by Adampr on 31/08/2022 at 14:08

As a rule of thumb, avoid any with names/abbreviations in the model name such as MMT/AMT/Multimode/DSG/Powershift etc (doesn't apply to CVT). There may be exceptions to this rule but its a good place to start

My daughter is looking to buy an automatic car for less than £3500.

She is looking for something about the size of a Honda Jazz.

I've said that I think only CVT and torque converter gearboxes are reliable enough.

Does anyone have a definitive list or maybe point me in the direction of a list of models and type of automatic for this size of car?

I realise this has been asked before but but I've struggled using the search facility to get any meaningful results.

Thanks in advance.

Not all CVTs are reliable - the ones used in some Nissans (and presumably by their tie-up, Renaults) made by Jatco don't seem (by reports) to be that reliable. Not sure if the autos in their small cars are CVTs, DCTs or just TC ones these days. Older CVTs in the mid 90s Micra had their problems, but I'm not sure if the units were dumped on future versions of the car for more reliable TC units.

The other thing to mention when buying on a reasonably low budget, and possibly a first car is to keep it simple - the absolutely lowest spec they need - the less gadgets on it, the less to go wrong and thus the newer the car they can afford, which should be more fuel efficient, cheaper to run/insure and reliable, if well-maintained.

Unfortunately the HJ search facility (or all the reviews) doesn't distinguish between types of auto box, which would be handy.

Thanks very much for all those answers. Good of you to take the time. Thanks again,