Automatic superminis: what's important? - Introduction

Small automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular.

Drivers downsizing for environmental and tax reasons want the hassle-free features of an auto with the excellent fuel economy and low emissions of a small-engined supermini.

These don't always come hand-in-hand, however.

Our guide will help you work out the pitfalls and benefits of the different types of auto gearbox and which ones are the most efficient.