“Good things come in small packages.” So said, Aesop, an ancient Greek storyteller famed for his fables that taught morals to children during the period 600 – 500BC. We can’t help but notice, some two and a half thousand years later, that he was definitely onto something. Just ask the clever marketing guys at De Beers, Xiaomi and Apple. The same principle continues to be a popular consumer choice for motorists, with the lifestyle decision to downsize to a smaller car reaping many benefits, not just financially and spatially. 

Bigger is not always better. And if you have recently been asking yourself, “Should I downsize my car?”, we’ve got just the motivation to tip you towards a smaller, yet smarter driving option.

#1 Cost Savings – The top reason why anyone should downsize to a smaller car

With all the rumours circulating of a petrol price spiking to R40 per litre before the end of the year, tough financial decisions will need to be made for already stretched household budgets. A car’s running costs generally increase in proportion to its size, with car parts, servicing and new wheels proving hellishly expensive for larger bakkies, SUVs and station wagons. 

Downsizing to a smaller car not only cuts much-needed costs in these departments but also filters down the savings to insurance premiums and motor tax renewals. Sacrifice size to supercharge your savings account! It might mean a tighter squeeze – but it will definitely be worth it. 

#2 Great resale value for well-kept smaller cars 

While the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux generally emerge as perennial favourites in the used car market, the remainder of the Top 10 list is dominated by smaller vehicles, such as the Kia Picanto, the Toyota Aygo, the impressive Audi A1 and the Ford Figo. It’s no coincidence that newer versions of these models command excellent prices on used car marketplaces. 

A word of caution though – this prediction shouldn’t be taken as a given. The eventual resale value of your smaller car will depend on unique factors, such as mileage, wear and tear, complete service history and maintaining a spotless interior throughout its lifetime. 

#3 Unnecessary performance in an underutilised bigger bar?

For many, getting our hands on our first dream car in our twenties was all about flexing muscle and torque while breezing through Friday night lights. Do you really need to be burning deep holes in your wallet (and thread count) maintaining a Mustang or GTI that has long lost its kerb appeal now that there are extra (baby) passengers to consider? (No disrespect to VW and Ford, by the way!). Your current context is key – and if you can pocket significant monthly savings by downsizing to a smaller car that is equally flash, this should be a no brainer. 

#4 Parking and manoeuvrability 

Last, but by no means least, some of the biggest daily advantages of downsizing your current juggernaut is easier parking and manoeuvrability. We’re talking about the most basic of physics here, such as a lower centre of gravity, lighter steering and parking in tight spaces. Of course, this doesn’t appeal to everyone, but if you are a city slicker, or have an adult child that is newly licensed, everything is so much easier behind the wheels of a more compact car.

Downsize to a smaller car that is right for you

It’s not the option for everyone, but certainly, a smart and savvy one if you’re feeling the strain – physically and financially – of maintaining a larger vehicle. Notice how we haven’t mentioned the word “downgrade” in this article? That term certainly doesn’t apply here! Smaller cars offer surprising engine power, reduced emissions, and often the same luxury accessories as their turbo-charged counterparts. 

If you’re ready to make the switch and need to sell your current larger vehicle, you can sell it today on an online car sales platform for the best cash price.