With the average car buyers budget arguably tighter than ever before, getting the most out of your first, or any car purchase for that matter, is vital. I’ve had a look at the sub R200 000 mark passenger vehicles, and with over 27 options available, I’ve narrowed it down to six. Let’s just say if you are sans left leg, or just don’t like to clutch, you’re probably interested in an automatic gearbox, and that’s specifically what we’re looking at here.

John Beale picks his 6 best automatic hatchbacks under R200 000

Kia Picanto

The Picanto might have once been a mockery, but the current model from Kia is anything but. Solid build quality, an engine that has more zip than most 1.4litre engines and more standard spec than something more…German. Don’t expect much in terms of ride and handling, space is limited and there’s no ABS. A solid offering from the Korean marque, sporting exceptional value.

Kia Picanto 1,0LX AT – R127 995

Specification – Power Steering and Steel wheels with hubcaps. Aircon, Alarm & Immobilizer, Central locking, Radio (USB&Aux), Electric front windows, auto lights and follow me home lighting, fog lamps, ISOFIX child seat anchors.Safety kit – Disc & Drum brakes with Driver & Passenger airbag

Volkswagen Polo Vivo

If you just want to buy German, the locally-made Polo Vivo is still going strong. Better build quality than the rest, the Vivo has solid handling characteristics and the best auto box of the lot. The styling may be dated, and the specifications very sparse indeed, but it’s a safe bet which is value in itself.

Polo Vivo Trendline 1.4 Tiptronic – R151 100

Safety kit – Front disc brakes assisted by ABS & EBD, Driver and passenger airbagsSpecification – Aircon, Steel wheels, No radio, manual windows

Hyundai i20

The i20 is arguably the best looking of the group here, with the strongest engine too. Specification is excellent, considering at this price it features parking sensors, Bluetooth and keyless entry, some of which are pricey options – even on larger cars. There is also a standard service plan, which means servicing costs are taken care of until 60 000km. Super-light steering is low on feedback, and lots of hard plastics make up the interior, so don’t expect magic inside, but its comfortable and well laid out.

Hyundai i20 1,4 Fluid AT – R184 900

Specification – Aircon, Radio USB/Ipod, Bluetooth, keyless entry, alarm, PDC, front&rear electrics, folding electric mirrorsSafety – Dual Airbags, ABS

Suzuki Swift

One of the best cars (let alone hatchbacks) I drove last year. An engine that likes to be revved and a chassis that punches way above its weight. Good kit and build quality with a simple and functional interior means it has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Looks pretty good too.

Suzuki Swift SE AT – 186 900

Specification – Aircon, Alloy, Radio, Electric windows, Fog lamps , Safety – EBD, BAS, Dual Airbags

Kia Rio

This little hatch has been kicking the competition around the block for quite some time. It looks great, offers the most standard specifications, has a strong engine and the ride and handling is not bad either. Steering is super light (perhaps even too light) and dealerships are few and far between, but for just under our budget it’s the best-specced vehicle here.

Kia Rio 1,4 Tec AT – R192 995

Specification -, 17inch alloy, Alarm and Remote, Electric windows front and rear, Radio USB/Aux 6speaker, Bluetooth, electric mirrors, Armrest, Leather seats, Daytime running lights, Rain-sensing windshield wipers and auto-lightsSafety – ABS, EBD, Dual front, side and curtain airbags

Honda Jazz

You don’t have to bring your pensioners discount card to get a good deal here. The Jazz has been a top seller for good reason. The most reliable of the group, the Jazz is a comfortable ride with a no fuss interior and a decent amount of space. However, its a CVT which means it’ll whine a bit as the gearbox keeps the engine at constant revs, but improved fuel consumption is the upside. It’s not the funkiest-looking of the bunch, but if that doesn’t bother you it’s a very solid purchase.

Honda Jazz 1.3 Comfort CVT – R197 000

Specification – Isofix baby seat anchors, Alarm, Central locking, Alloy wheels, CD/Aux/Mp3, Aircon, Electric windows front and rearSafety – ABS, EBD, EBA, Dual front and side airbags

Comparison table