'I'm a car expert and these 3 cheap models under £6,000 are the least problematic'

The top three used hatchback cars that are easy on the eye and reliable have been revealed by an expert.

Grant Davidson, who runs the popular YouTube channel , has posted a video detailing the top three used that are stylish and reliable that Brits should invest in. All for less than £6,000.

Scottish Car Clan is a beloved channel with over 90,000 subscribers. Grant, who runs the account, has built a strong online presence by creating videos which discuss the best car models to buy second-hand, while educating buyers on what to look out for when purchasing. His recent video, which went viral, saw Grant

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His top recommendation was the Renault Clio 1.5 diesel, for its remarkable fuel economy. Grant explains: "We've got a very lovely little Renault Clio, let's take a look at that. The bumper is a little bit off, and there's some kerbing on the wheel, but that might be just that the preparation was lacking a little bit. I'm sure there are better examples out there to be had, but these are decent little cars."

He adds: "The 1.5 diesel has all the common modern-day diesel engine issues like the DPF (diesel particulate filter) getting choked up, but there's no fundamental reliability problems with the Clio. They're very economical as well. I ran one as a courtesy car whilst my car was being repaired and I'd routinely crack 65 to 70mpg without trying.”

The fourth-generation Renault Clio models built between 2012 and 2020 are notably more spacious than their predecessors. However, they still provided a similar style that drivers tend to expect from the French car.

While there have been a number of engines fitted under the bonnet of the Renault Clios, Grant explains that the 1.5dCi diesel engine is the most dependable. This engine averages over 55 mpg and can achieve more than 70 mpg if driven carefully on motorways. With early models being non-compliant in low-emission zones, drivers should consider investing in the fourth-generation Renault Clio 1.5 dCi from around £3,000.

Grant also encouraged buyers to look into the third-generation Mazda 2. However, he urged drivers to stick with the petrol engines to avoid any issues or complications down the line.

He explains: "Next we have a little Mazda 2, it's the 1.5 Skyactiv. Let's take a closer look because this could be a very good bet. The key here is that it's the 1.5 petrol and it's a 2015 car. Mazda also did a diesel 1.5 from 2015 to 2018, which was horrible, but this little petrol engine is alright."

"That seems to be the case with Mazda. They seem to make some diesel engines that aren't very good, but the petrols are great. This will be a little underpowered, but there aren't any glaringly obvious problems."

Lastly, the motoring influencer noted that the Toyota Yaris is another great used car to invest in. However, he warned buyers to double-check the bodywork for any visible signs of rust.

He continued: "Would you look at that: the pinnacle of reliability. Let's take a look at this little Toyota Yaris. Oh, I can see the way this is going to go - it's sold and I'm not surprised. These are great little cars, super reliable."

"They don't really have problems, but the big thing you want to be careful of is rust. It's a lot like the Honda Jazz; mechanically, they're very strong, but you need to be on the lookout for rust. Have a scan through the MOT history and look for anything relating to rust or corrosion. That way, when you go to look at the car, you'll know where to check."