1. Hyundai i20

Hyundai offers terrific value for money with its cars pound-for-pound having more equipment than many others cars in the class. They are therefore a favourite among leasers who want two or three years' worth of hassle-free motoring. The Hyundai i20 is a modern and stylish supermini that's a worthy alternative to the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 208. The i20 is best for leasers who want to save money more than anything else. The 1.1 CRDi engine is our pick of the range and this will return an impressive 74.3mpg on the combined cycle. It also almost cuts below the London Congestion Charge with a CO₂ emissions rating of 99g/km (the threshold was dropped to 75g/km in July). There's also a 1.2-litre petrol engine, but this is not as economical.

We recommend Classic trim to keep leasing payments low. Active trim has better alloy wheels, but it's not worth the initial outlay in our opinions.

2. Kia Picanto

The Kia Picanto is a great car. It is a direct alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen up! and Peugeot 107. Kia has come a long way in recent years and the Picanto is testament to this. Leasers will enjoy the car's fantastic ride quality, eager handling and willingness to rev - the 1.25-litre petrol engine is our pick of the range, ahead of the 1.0 engine, which has to be worked hard. The 1.25-litre Kia Picanto returns a combined fuel economy of 60.1mpg in five-door guise with CO₂ emissions of 109g/km. Road tax and congestion charges in London are therefore low though the three-door model is a little more efficient - it also looks sportier.

Inside, the interior is of a good quality and the driving position is excellent. A 1.25 Kia Picanto can be leased from £188.22 + VAT from leasing companies such as Lease Cars.

3. Honda Jazz

When we say Honda Jazz, chances are you think of a miniature MPV that's designed for motorists 'of the older generation' rather than younger people. If you think that, the two cars above are likely better options for you, but if you care nothing for a car's image, the Honda Jazz is a wonderful leasing opportunity. First of all, the Jazz is splendid to drive - the chassis is fun, the suspension absorbs potholes well, and the engine range is strong. Standard equipment is also very good and the Jazz has an excellent Euro NCAP safety rating.

The Jazz is super cheap to lease, available from just £113 + VAT per month.

Sponsored post - 7 Oct 2013