Can you recommend a hatchback with air conditioning to replace my Ford Ka?

I have been very happy with my Ford Ka basic model (manual gear change, with air conditioning) since buying it new in 2003. I am 77 and only do about 2000 miles a year, but for family reasons I now wish to change this for a similar new small car. My requirements are central locking, hatchback, and air-conditioning. What would you recommend, please, from the currently available selection of new small cars?

Asked on 25 February 2012 by DB, via email

Answered by Honest John
Hyundai i10 1.2, KIA Picanto 1.2 or Suzuki Splash 1.2: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/hyundai/hyundai-i1.../, www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/kia/kia-picanto-20.../ and www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/suzuki/suzuki-spla.../. And, of course, there is always the Fiat 500 based current Ford Ka.
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