There’s something innately appealing about a no-frills budget car, especially if the price is bargain-basement low without sacrificing crucial safety features (one of our criteria for this award is that contenders should each have at least one airbag and ABS as standard).
At R110 700, the locally manufactured Spark Campus healthily undercuts all its main rivals but offers two ‘bags, ABS with EBD and air-conditioning as standard. There are sacrifices, sure; owners will have to shell out more money for an audio system and service plan (although a five-year/120 000 km warranty is standard) and manually wind their windows. But, it doesn’t feel cheap.
The cabin has swathes of hard plastic, but fit and finish are good, cabin space is excellent front and rear considering the vehicle’s compact size, and it rides with respectable composure and handles assuredly. Likewise, the 60 kW/108 N.m 1,2-litre engine fights above its weight class, feeling surprisingly alert in city driving. In terms of finding a balance between value for money, packaging and safety items, nothing can touch the Spark Campus in this segment.
Runners Up:
Honda Brio Amaze 1,2 Trend
In one fell swoop, the arrival of the Brio sedan addressed our main criticism of the five-door: tight luggage space. Our ceiling amount means only the Trend is within reach, but standard spec is surprisingly good.
Ford Figo 1,4 Ambiente
Last year’s winner has to contend with third place this time, but it remains a brilliant buy. Dynamically it’s the best of the lot, while ABS, two airbags, air-con and an audio system sweeten the deal.
ALSO CONSIDER
- Toyota Etios 1,5 Xs
- Chevrolet Aveo hatch L
- Honda Brio 1,2 Comfort
- VW Polo Vivo 1,4
LOOK OUT FOR
A barrage of new city cars are on the way, including Hyundai’s i10 Grand and replacements for the Citroën C1, Peugeot 107 and Toyota Aygo. We hope Volkswagen secures competitive pricing and launches the Up!, a vehicle that could upturn the segment.