Embarking on the journey of driving can be an exhilarating experience for new drivers, and choosing the right first car is a crucial step in that adventure. In 2024, the market offers a variety of vehicles that blend safety, reliability, and affordability, making them ideal candidates for those who have recently earned their driving stripes. With that in mind, here are 10 of the best first cars for new drivers this year.
The Best Buys For New UK Drivers This Year
Kia Picanto
For the budget-conscious beginner, the Kia Picanto asserts itself as a paragon of value. With its low running costs and generous 7-year warranty – a clear testament to Kia’s trust in its craftsmanship – the Picanto eases financial worries for the fledgeling driver. And whilst it may be modest in size, it packs a punch with an unexpectedly spacious interior and brisk performance for city jaunts and countryside romps alike.
Prices start from around £13’500.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa stands as an iconic British favourite, particularly for those freshly donning their driver’s gloves. Priding itself on its compact size and nimbleness, the Corsa offers ease of navigation through the tight lanes and urban sprawls of Blighty’s towns.
Its infotainment system comes loaded with modern-day essentials, ensuring connectivity for the socially savvy generation. Coupled with a reputation for solid build quality, new drivers will find both confidence and comfort behind the wheel of this reliable motorcar.
Prices start from around £19’500.
Toyota Corolla
A name synonymous with dependability, the Toyota Corolla continues to uphold its long-standing reputation for reliability and durability. With a starting price of approximately £25’000 for the 2024 model, it remains an affordable option for many. Known for its excellent fuel economy and low-cost maintenance, the Corolla is a wise investment for any new driver looking to balance initial costs with long-term value.
The Corolla also offers a range of headlight options, including the latest LED technology, which provides clear, long-lasting illumination for safer driving from dusk till dawn.
Prices start from around £30’000.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is another stalwart in the realm of first cars for new drivers. It’s included in the IIHS-HLDI’s 2023 Top Safety Picks for small cars, which is a testament to its commitment to keeping drivers safe on the road. The Civic’s blend of safety features, reliability, and fuel efficiency make it a smart choice for those prioritizing a secure and economical driving experience.
The Civic also caters to those new drivers who value safety during nighttime driving, offering headlight options such as LEDs, which are not only energy-efficient but also provide excellent road illumination, ensuring a safer driving experience in low-light conditions.
Prices start from around £25’000.
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
For the environmentally conscious new driver, the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is a standout. It offers the benefits of hybrid technology, such as reduced emissions and improved fuel economy, without sacrificing style or driving pleasure. The Ioniq Hybrid is a testament to Hyundai’s efforts to combine eco-friendliness with the practical needs of everyday driving.
Prices start from around £22’000.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
For those who dream of a sportier ride, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata is an exciting option. While it may not be the conventional choice for a first car, it offers an engaging driving experience with its nimble handling and responsive controls. It’s a car that makes every journey feel like a driving adventure, perfect for the spirited new driver.
Prices start from around £19’000.
Ford Focus
The Ford Focus has long been celebrated for its easy steering, control, and ultimate comfort, making it a popular choice among new drivers. Its reputation for reliability is well-founded, and with excellent fuel economy, it’s not only kind to your wallet at purchase but also at the petrol station. The Focus provides a smooth ride, which is perfect for those still getting accustomed to the nuances of handling a car on busy roads.
For first-time drivers who prioritise visibility during their night drives, the Ford Focus offers a choice between xenon and LED headlights. While xenon headlights are known for their bright, white light, LED headlights are durable and energy-efficient, making them a practical option for those who plan to log many hours on the road after dark. Choosing between xenon and LED headlights for a Ford Focus depends largely on your personal preferences and driving requirements.
Prices start from around £23’000.
Peugeot 208
With a dash of Gallic flair, the Peugeot 208 captures the essence of stylish motoring without compromising the substance. The chic interior exudes a ‘beyond-its-class’ feel, while the exterior design conveys a modern aesthetic. Not merely a pretty face, the 208 is laden with advanced driver assistance systems that new drivers will appreciate, offering a blend of sophistication and safety in one appealing package.
Prices start from around £20’000.
Skoda Fabia
Another strong contender in the compact category, the Skoda Fabia, presents unmatched practicality and a mature drive experience. It boasts a capacious boot for the class, making it fitting for university students requiring ample space for their gear. With an array of nifty safety features, it’s designed to protect and reassure, paving the way for a secure driving initiation.
Prices start from around £15’700.
Seat Ibiza
Lastly, the Seat Ibiza strides forth as a sumptuous blend of sporty spirit and everyday usability. This Spanish marque provides a dynamic driving experience, which is seldom found at such an accessible price point. Despite its zeal, it doesn’t skip on practicality nor efficiency, presenting a balanced choice for those seeking a bit more verve from their inaugural motor.
Prices start from around £19000.
The Bottom Line
This assortment crosses borders and tastes, all the while prioritising what matters most to the novice driver: safety, dependability, and financial prudence. Whether you’re in favour of traditional functionality or have a penchant for pizzazz, these ten cars provide a splendid starting line for your automobile adventures.
When considering these cars, it’s important to focus on the aspects that matter most to new drivers: safety features, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Cars with collision avoidance, backup cameras, and automatic braking should be highlighted, as they can significantly enhance the safety of inexperienced drivers. Additionally, good gas mileage and a reasonable sale price are key factors that make these vehicles appealing choices for those just starting out on the road.
*All prices are for 2024 models, new, as estimated by Auto Trader.*