Specify the engine according to your budget, as the 1.6 unit offers respectable economy even though there is no diesel option to choose. List prices are impressively low too but it will not be cheap to service which pushes running costs up.

Lancer performs reasonably on the eco front. With an average of 186 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are fairly standard for a small family estate. It’s worth noting that the line-up does not feature any diesel models, which typically produce less carbon dioxide than petrol engines with similar power outputs. The range is not particularly economical, averaging 36 mpg.

Possibly the strongest reason to buy this car other than its low purchase price is its likely reliability, which should be excellent. The servicing costs may tempt some owners to cut corners which would be a false economy.