The Citroen Ami has been named the cheapest vehicle to run in the UK, with running costs of 22.17p per mile, according to a ranking by Auto Express. The publication calculated a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over 36 months or 30,000 miles, plus a pence per mile rating, for cars available to British buyers.
The ranking comes as UK households face rising fuel prices and higher costs for other goods during the colder months. A car requires tax, insurance, maintenance, and fuel or electricity, making running costs a significant factor for many drivers.
Quadricycle tops the list
The Ami, which is technically a quadricycle rather than a car, came ahead of its sister vehicle, the Fiat Topolino. Auto Express calculated its total cost over 36 months or 30,000 miles at around £6,649.88, or about £2,500 for every 10,000 miles.
The publication added two caveats to its conclusion, noting that very few Ami owners will cover as many as 10,000 miles a year, as the French quadricycle is built for lower mileages in urban environments. It highlighted the vehicle's lack of creature comforts, a range of just over 46 miles, and a top speed of 28mph, saying it would not suit longer trips and that the cost savings demand real compromises.
First conventional car on the list
The first vehicle on the list that is legally a car was the Hyundai i10, which cost 43.86p per mile and had a total cost of £13,157.45.
The Ami received a mid-life facelift at the end of 2025. The publication noted that the vehicle is a conversation starter, with its distinctive design drawing attention even in busy settings.
