Despite a dramatic increase in SUV models appearing on Britain's roads in recent years, car manufacturers continue to produce more compact vehicles.

Recently, there's been a revival of both saloon and estate body styles, alongside growing demand for smaller models.

Progress in battery technology and petrol engines means it's now feasible to travel considerably further with a smaller battery and/or engine than was possible just a few years ago.

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With this in mind, motoring experts What Car? have compiled a list of what they believe are the finest small cars currently available in the UK.

Topping their rankings was the ToyotaAygo X, a vehicle that now features hybrid technology - combining petrol and electric power - to drive it forward, reports the Express.

They commended it for being highly economical, enjoyable to drive, and offering a 10-year warranty. Despite criticism for being somewhat cramped for rear passengers and having a smaller boot than competing models, it still emerged victorious.

They stated: "The Toyota Aygo X may look like a small SUV, but its dimensions are such that it actually qualifies as a small car - and a very good one at that.

"Key to its appeal is the fact that it's a hybrid, meaning it can run on electric power alone over short distances."

Securing second place behind the Aygo X was the multi-award winning Renault 5, which has transformed expectations of how well a small electric car can perform and handle on the road.

On the Renault5, What Car? admitted that ranking it second was a tough call, lauding its "grow-up driving manners" and infotainment system, but criticising its limited discounts and "tight" rear legroom.

They stated: "Still, if you decide that going electric is right for you, then you'll love the Renault 5. From its cheeky styling to its tech-heavy interior, this is an electric car which may look a bit retro, but is thoroughly forward-facing."

Following behind the 5 in third place was its sibling, the Renault Clio, a car that What Car? likened to Mary Poppins for being "practically perfect in every way". They were highly complimentary about its interior, ride, handling balance, and practicality.

However, they pointed out that it was also somewhat cramped for taller adults in the back seats, had a firm low-speed ride, and a high lip for the boot. The lip refers to the height of the lower entry to the boot.

Like the Aygo X, the Clio also offers a hybrid as well as a petrol option.