We all love a bargain. But when it comes to cars, cheap isn’t always cheerful. There’s always a fear that if you cut down on costs, then there might be something wrong with the car you’re buying.

The good news is that cars have never been better, with reliability and durability vastly improved. That means you can look for a used car and have some confidence that it will still be a nice little runner (if the previous owners were careful enough!). Here are our picks for the best cars you can get for under 10k.

Ford Focus

One of the most popular cars in the UK over the past decade or so, the Ford Focus has built its reputation on its all-round quality. The good news is that this has been the case for a generation or two, so you can be assured that used versions will retain some of that quality.

What makes the Focus great? It’s a nice simple drive that won’t bore you to death, and its clever use of space makes it great for small families. A top safety rating is the icing on the affordable cake.

Vauxhall Corsa

Not far behind the Focus in the popularity stakes, the Vauxhall Corsa is another hatchback that has been refined over the years into a decent, affordable car. While it may not be the most thrilling drive, it’s ideal for new drivers or those with a small or growing family that need comfort for the kids without sacrificing manoeuvrability.

Volkswagen Golf

A car beloved by the boy racers of yore, the Volkswagen Golf is a car that still attracts those who want a bit more of a kick in their drive. Its low price makes it a good entry level car too, and you don’t have to drive it around like a wannabe racecar driver if you don’t feel like it. Instead, take advantage of the excellent handling and range of efficient and powerful engines to choose between.

Fiat 500

Going for a car under 10k doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style. We’re not saying the Fiat 500 car is the coolest car on the road, but it has a quirkiness that has managed to stay this side of the line of cheesy.

As for the drive, it gives you an excellent high seating position that is perfect for newer drivers who want a good view of the road. While it’s not the best for families, it will keep you more than happy until you reach (or when you leave) that stage of your life.

SEAT Mii

A name you might not recognise, the SEAT Mii is nevertheless one you should be looking into, especially if you are in the market for a smart city car that makes urban living a lot less stressful. It’s not the biggest car, but it’s good for short trips, ideal for the school run. For under 10k, you’ll get a nearly new model too.

Nissan Juke

Cheaper doesn’t mean smaller, and you can find a quality crossover SUV for under 10k. Slightly smaller than its more famous relation the Qashqai, the Nissan Juke still has a lot of the good features and qualities that made its sister model so successful. It’s a very practical choice for those with a family or those who just want a bigger car to make them feel safer.