The best cars for new drivers
When you’ve finished learning to drive in Leeds, and passed your driving test, the next monumental moment is choosing your first car. It’s a massive milestone in anyone’s life, after all it’s a step closer to adulthood, and a level of freedom which you’ve never experienced before.
More often than not, it’s not as straight forward as simply picking the car you like the look of the most. You need to consider the price of the car, and how much it will cost to run – including the price of petrol/diesel, road tax and, of course, the insurance, which can often be through the roof for first time drivers.
If you need help deciding on the make and model of your first car, then look no further, as we have put together this guide of the four best cars for new drivers. Read on to find out more!
- Volkswagen up!
The Volkswagen up! is a great choice for your first car. The up! was unveiled by Volkswagen at the 2011 International Motor Show Germany, and since its release has won multiple awards, including Top Gear Magazine ‘Small Car of the Year’ in 2011, and the What Car? ‘Car of the Year’ in 2012 and 2013. The up! is affordable and within most first car budgets. Plus, it only has a 1.0-litre engine, and all its models sit within the first two insurance groups – meaning it’s also affordable to run.
Despite having compact dimensions, which make it great for city driving, there is plenty of room inside the stylish interior, and a good-sized 251-litre boot. For those after something a bit sportier, there is also a GTI version. However, this model isn’t only more expensive to buy, it also costs more to insure for first time drivers. If you would prefer to buy a used up!, then this 1.0-litre petrol 2013 model is much more affordable.
- Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta isn’t just a popular choice for first time buyers, it is also the best-selling car in the United Kingdom and has won multiple awards throughout the years, including being named ‘Used Car of the Year 2012’ by UK’s CAP Black Book Car Guide, and ‘Supermini of the Year 2013’ by What Car?
Whilst the Fiesta, which was first released in 1976, is a little pricey brand new, we’re sure you’ll be able to come across an affordable used model, like this 2012 1.25-litre petrol Fiesta. Its larger dimensions mean more room for passengers and driver, as well as a much larger boot. For new drivers, it would probably be best to go for a lower-powered 1.0-litre Fiesta, as these would be the cheapest to insure. Again, for those looking for something sportier, the Fiesta ST is a great choice. However, it’ll come as no surprise that the ST model is pricier to buy and insure.
- Renault Clio
The Renault Clio is one of the most stylish superminis on the market and is a very popular car with first time buyers. Since the French car manufacturer released the Clio in 1990, it has won multiple awards, including ‘European Car of the Year’ on two occasions (1991 and 2006) and the 2006 What Car? ‘Supermini of the Year’.
Over the years, Renault have given the model several facelifts, and the newest Clio is bigger and better than ever. The exterior has been treated to an evolutionary redesign, whilst the interior is up to date with the latest technology, including a 4.2” screen and electronic front windows. A starting price of £14,000 might be a little out of budget for many first car buyers, but the insurance shouldn’t be sky-high. Of course, there are plenty of great deals available online for used Clios, like this 2010 1.2 16v model.
- Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa has been a popular choice for first time buyers for years, and it’ll come as no surprise – as it seems you can’t go outside without seeing one – that it is the third most popular car in the UK. Just like the Clio, the body shape of the Corsa has evolved over the years, making it one of the most stylish superminis on the road, and a very sought-after car by first time buyers.
Available in three-door or five-door models, the all new Corsa comes with a choice of two different engines – 1.2-litre petrol or alternatively, a 1.5-litre diesel. Of course, it comes with all the latest technology, including a 7” colour touchscreen entertainment system. The Corsa also boasts very affordable finance deals and falls within the low insurance group – even more reason why it is perfect for first time car buyers. Used Corsas are easy to come across online as well.