Name John Russell
Age 24
Budget £6000
Drives Ford FocusWants 'Something reliable and attractive to look at, which will also hold onto a fair amount of its value. The more space inside the better!'
Personal shopper recommendsIf, like John, you want the whatcar.com personal shopper's help to find your ideal car, just e-mail
recommends@whatcar.com with:
• A photo of yourself
• Your budget
• Your current car
• Your age
• Your annual mileage
• Other useful info
Kia Picanto 1.0 1 Price £6635
Target Price £6336

The Picanto is the cheapest new car we'd advise buying. It isn't a stunner, nor is it very big, but it has a seven-year warranty.
Fiat Panda 1.1 Active Eco, '09/09Price £5750

Cheap as chips to run and decent to drive. A used car will limit the amount of depreciation, and this Panda has two years of warranty left.
Volkswagen Golf 1.6 FSI SE 5dr, '04/04Price £6000
The Golf Mk V is similar in size to John's Focus, but is better built and should hang onto its value well. It also scores five stars for safety.