A Good Car for New Drivers: 5 Models to Choose From!
Choosing your first car can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there—some too pricey, others too powerful—it’s hard to know what’s a good car for a new driver. Safety, cost, and ease of handling all matter, but not every car checks those boxes.
Don’t worry—we’ve done the homework for you. In this guide, you’ll find 5 of the best cars for new drivers. Each one is safe, affordable, and easy to drive.
What Makes a Good Car for New Drivers?
Choosing your first car is a big deal. It should be safe, affordable, and easy to handle. Here’s what to look for:
1. Safety Features First
Safety is key when you’re starting out. Go for a car with ABS, airbags, and electronic stability control. These systems help you avoid accidents and stay in control. Some models even include lane assist and emergency braking as standard.
2. Easy to Handle
Small or midsize cars are easier to manage. They’re simple to steer, park, and reverse. Visibility is usually better, which builds confidence. Avoid big SUVs until you’re more experienced.
3. Low Maintenance and Reliable
Pick a model known for reliability. Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai often rank well. You don’t want a car that’s always in the garage. Fewer breakdowns mean more time learning and less stress.
4. Cost-Efficient
Fuel costs can add up fast. Choose a car with good MPG to save money. Don’t forget to factor in servicing, road tax, and insurance. Owning a car should support your journey, not drain your wallet.
5. Simple Tech That Helps, Not Distracts
Good tech makes driving easier, not harder. Look for Bluetooth, parking sensors, and a simple touchscreen. Avoid overly complex systems that take your focus off the road. Stick with features that help, not overwhelm.
6. Think About Insurance
Insurance for new drivers is pricey. Some cars fall into low insurance groups—start there. Choosing the right model can save you hundreds each year. We’ll cover this more in the next section.
Remember, it’s essential for new drivers to gain experience and build confidence gradually. Taking driving lessons, practising in various road conditions, and adhering to traffic rules are equally important factors in becoming a safe and responsible driver. You can find and compare professional driving instructors on Ezlicence, an online driving lesson booking platform.
What is the Cheapest Car for Young Drivers to Insure?
The cost of car insurance for new drivers can vary based on several factors, including age, driving experience, location, and the specific insurance provider. It’s always recommended to obtain personalised insurance quotes based on your specific circumstances.
However, some good cars for new drivers under £1000 can be insured with some proactive tips. Here are a few car models that are often considered best cars for new drivers, insurance-wise:
1. Honda Civic
The Civic is reliable, fuel-efficient, and built to last. It has strong safety scores and low repair costs, which helps keep insurance down. It also feels solid on the road, making it ideal for gaining confidence. Many young drivers love it for its mix of comfort and control.
2. Ford Focus
The Focus is easy to drive and park, perfect for city streets and tight spots. It comes with good tech and strong safety ratings. With low running costs and widely available parts, insurers consider it low-risk. Plus, it’s fun to drive without being overpowered.
3. Toyota Corolla
This car is known for being dependable and cheap to maintain. It’s packed with features like lane assist and automatic braking. That’s great for safety and for insurance savings. It’s also one of the longest-lasting cars out there, so it’s a smart investment.
4. Volkswagen Polo
The Polo is compact but doesn’t feel cheap. It has a quality interior, smooth handling, and solid build quality. Because it’s smaller and less powerful than other VW models, it’s often cheaper to insure. It’s a great mix of style, safety, and affordability.
5. Kia Picanto
The Picanto offers strong value with a long warranty, reliable performance, and good fuel economy. It’s a no-fuss car with the key features young drivers need. Safety is good too, and it comes with features like automatic emergency braking. That helps lower premiums.
Remember, insurance premiums can vary significantly based on individual factors, so it’s important to obtain insurance quotes from multiple providers and compare them to find the most affordable option for your specific circumstances.
Choosing the Best Car for the Driving Test?
Choosing the right car for your driving test is an important step towards ensuring a smooth and successful experience. Here are some tips to help you choose a suitable car for your driving test.
First of all, review the guidelines provided by DVLA to understand any specific requirements or restrictions on the type of car for driving test. You should use a car with properly functioning brakes, lights, tires, and signals, all of which is essential for a successful driving test.
It may sound obvious, but choose a car that you are familiar with and have had sufficient practice driving. Being comfortable and confident in operating the vehicle can positively impact your performance during the driving test.
When you have a choice of car for the driving test, consider taking a car that is easy to manoeuvre in different situations, such as parallel parking and three-point turns. Cars with good turning radius and visibility make it easier to navigate through tight spaces and perform various manoeuvres required during the driving test.
For the same reason, opt for a car that is of average size and dimensions. Cars that are too large or too small may pose challenges in terms of visibility, control, and manoeuvrability.
If possible, practice with the same car that you intend to use for the driving test. This will allow you to become familiar with its specific characteristics and handling, giving you an added advantage during the test. Good luck!
5 Suggestions of a Good Car for New Drivers
Still, insurance shouldn’t be the decisive factor. If you are looking for someone to buy your car so you can purchase a newer one for a new driver, look no further as we have compiled a list of best cars new drivers would rave about. Here are our top five best cars for new drivers in the UK.
Toyota Aygo
The compact but mighty Toyota Aygo is a great car for new drivers. The reason why an Aygo is particularly practical for a first-time driver is that it is very small in size which makes it easy to park. Some models of the Toyota Aygo even come with a reversing camera – another wow factor!
If you are a younger driver, then you should be aware that the price of your insurance will be quite high at the start of your driving career. The Aygo really caters to the needs of those who do not want to shell out so much money for car insurance, as their engines are only 1 litre so they are not very fast.
So, if you’re looking for cheap car insurance for new drivers, Toyota Aygo should be on your list.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa has been a firm favourite for first-time drivers for decades. The Corsa is a car that is small in size, and it is very cheap to run. Vauxhall, as a brand, is known for being affordable, so this good car for new drivers is also ideal for those who don’t want to spend lots of money on purchasing their first car.
However, the latest model of the Vauxhall Corsa has had a complete revamp, and it now resembles a small Astra, so it is slightly bigger in size. Still, the Corsa is definitely a great choice for a first-time driver.
Even if you don’t get on with the Corsa later down the line, there is always the option of doing a part-exchange for another model.
Volkswagen Up
Volkswagen claims their Up is a small car with a huge personality, and they are not wrong. This small car has all the sophisticated features that are included in most VW models. This is a good car for new drivers, as this vehicle is comfortable and nippy on the roads.
VW Up is the type of car that you would want to cruise around in with your friends and there is more room in the rear of the vehicle than expected. Speaking of car insurance, it’s usually low on VW Up as this model usually has relatively small engines. This makes the Volkswagen Up a good choice for any first-time driver since it should keep the insurance low.
Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta closely rivals the Vauxhall Corsa, both of these cars have been the best-selling vehicle in the UK. The Ford Fiesta is a very good car for new drivers because it is small in size, but it is not a microcar, so it is still big enough for passengers to sit comfortably in the back of the car.
The Fiesta is relatively cheap to run and there are different variations of engines that can be purchased, for example, if you want something sportier the Ford Fiesta ST would be a good choice, as it is slightly faster, but it is still rather compact in size. If you are looking for a reliable, smaller car, then a Ford Fiesta really is a good choice.
Fiat 500
The Italian-made Fiat 500 has been very popular in the UK in recent years. The car is particularly popular with young females as it is rather cute and fun-looking. The Fiat 500 looks retro in its exterior and it is almost in the shape of a bubble. It also comes in a range of colours, including trending pastel shades.
This car is one of the smallest models of cars that we have listed and because of its size, it is very easy to park. It is likely the Fiat 500 will stay a first-time driver favourite for a very long time and we are definitely recommending this as a good car for new drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should new drivers look for in their first car?
New drivers should prioritise safety, reliability, and ease of use. Look for features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control to keep you protected. Smaller cars are easier to handle and park, making them ideal for beginners. Fuel efficiency is important to keep running costs low, especially if you’re on a budget.
Also, check insurance costs before buying, as some cars are cheaper to insure. Lastly, choose a car that’s affordable to maintain and repair. Balancing these factors will give you confidence on the road.
2. How can I reduce my car insurance costs as a new driver?
Insurance for new drivers is usually expensive, but you can lower it with a few smart moves. Choosing a car with good safety ratings and lower repair costs helps reduce premiums. Adding a responsible driver, like a parent, to your policy can sometimes help too.
Increasing your voluntary excess might lower your monthly payments but be sure you can afford it if you need to claim. Taking a recognised driving course can also earn you discounts. Lastly, always compare quotes from different insurers before deciding. Shopping around and choosing the right car are key to saving money.
3. Are compact cars better for new drivers?
Yes, compact cars are often better for new drivers. They are easier to manoeuvre in traffic and fit into tight parking spots. Their smaller size also gives you better visibility around the car. Many compact cars have good safety ratings, which is crucial when you’re still gaining experience. They tend to be more fuel-efficient too, saving money on petrol. Plus, insurance for compact cars is usually cheaper than for larger vehicles. Overall, they’re great for building driving skills safely and affordably.
4. What are some affordable, reliable cars for new drivers?
Cars like the Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Polo, and Kia Picanto are popular with new drivers. These models offer good safety, reliability, and fuel economy. They also tend to have lower insurance costs and affordable maintenance. Many come with user-friendly technology to make driving easier and safer. These cars hold their value well and are widely available, making parts and repairs easier to find. Choosing one of these can help new drivers feel confident and comfortable behind the wheel.
5. Can technology in a car help new drivers?
Definitely! Modern cars often come with helpful technology like lane assist, rear parking sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features make driving safer and less stressful for new drivers. Infotainment systems that are easy to use keep your focus on the road. Some cars have automatic emergency braking or adaptive cruise control, which can prevent accidents. However, it’s important to learn how these systems work before relying on them. Using technology wisely can boost confidence and make your driving experience more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right car as a new driver doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing a model that’s safe, affordable, and easy to insure, you can start your driving journey with confidence. Cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or Volkswagen Polo tick all the right boxes—low running costs, solid safety, and better insurance rates for new drivers.
But remember, your current car might be costing you more than it should, especially on insurance.
If you’re thinking of switching to a more budget-friendly model, why not sell your current car the smart way? With Exchange My Car, you can get multiple instant offers from trusted buyers—all for free and without hassle.
Ready to make the switch? Sell your car today and find a better fit for your first drive.
And don’t forget to check out our blog for more tips on car buying, ownership, and saving money on the road.
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