>> Ten years ago you could buy a brand new small car for well under €10k. Sure, it didn't have all the bells and whistles but I have no need for those anyway. Nowadays, you're looking at €30k+ for a new, small car

If you are looking for car without bells and whistles you can buy a new car for €15k. €30k+ is a price tag for much more than basic car.

Indeed, I watched a €15k car TV commercial literally 2 minutes ago.