The Daewoo Nubira and Hyundai Lantra ranges feature compact estates that offer great value for buyers who want decent load space on a tight budget.

Both these reliable Korean contenders are nice to drive, comfortable, and have plenty of equipment even on basic models. Running costs are low, with sensibly priced parts and servicing. An 18,000-mile Lantra 1.6 GSi estate on 99V is around £6k. Nubira looks even cheaper: a 6,000-mile 00W 1.6 SE estate is about £7k.