Recent research has revealed that the average spend for a first car has topped £3400. Yep, the days of buying a banger as your inaugural set of wheels are over
Parkers.co.uk “found that British parents spend an average of £3410 on their child’s first car”. Oh, and one in six parents bought their kid’s car outright, while others contribute to the cost on their children’s first vehicle, perhaps with a grandparent or the child themself. Better start hitting that paper round with extra gusto, hey?
We also hear of those stories where some lucky new drivers who have just passed their test are given their parents or grandparents old car to do up, but while that’s a wonderful sounding gesture, sometimes the car just doesn’t cut it. As such, you could consider selling the car and invest the money on a newer model.
Once you’ve got the funds, it’s time to find your car. Sitting behind the wheel of your very first car can bring hugely mixed emotions; it’s both an exciting and daunting experience, and that’s for sure. If things are going to go smoothly, your choice of car, diligent and thoroughly researched, is sure to play a part.
There’s a huge amount of variety on offer, and several dozen criteria to base the decision on. You’ll want something that’s cheap to run and insure (which is especially important for new drivers), and you should ideally be looking for something small, manoeuvrable and easy to park, so that you’ll be able to drive with confidence from the off.
As if the market can read your mind, there are several cars especially aimed at new motorists. So, whether you’re looking on the approved used market, or for something brand new, here are 5 IDEAL top rated cars for new drivers.
FORD FIESTA
Ford’s Fiesta is among the best-selling series in the famous automotive company’s illustrious history. Though it’s one of the most popular hatchbacks available, the price tag is surprisingly steep compared to some of the competition. With that said, there’s a reason it’s so popular; it’s reliable, cheap to run, and comes with a low tax rate thanks to its modest CO2 emissions. For more on that, do check this useful guide on ‘How do I tax my car?’.
PEUGEOT 208
The new Peugeot 208 comes with distinctive styling and plush interior that’s beloved of many car enthusiasts. On the other hand, the rear seats are a little on the cramped side, and you’ll need to pay a little bit over the odds to secure this new model. If you’re looking to be bold and opt for an electric car right out of the gate, then you might consider the electric version of the 208, called, imaginatively enough, the e208.
VW POLO
The Polo is probably the best of the bunch when it comes to safety and security, as every model in the range comes with automatic emergency braking, along with a host of other features which have collectively contributed to its five-star rating from Euro NCAP. Volkswagen provide reliably swanky interiors and a host of features, making them a choice that’s difficult to beat without spending over the odds.
KIA PICANTO
The Picanto ranks among the more affordable options available to new drivers, but in making that sacrifice on price, you’ll lose a lot of the features which come as standard on rival lines, particularly if you opt for the entry-level trim. With that said, you’ll get a car that handles well, and which comes with a surprisingly spacious boot.
VAUXHALL CORSA
The Corsas of bygone years were popular for a reason: their amazing price-to-performance ratio. While those days aren’t quite with us anymore, the car is still well-equipped and a pleasure to drive. As with the Peugeot 208, you’ll lose out on rear-seat space. Where the modern Corsa does fall down is on safety, where its rivals appear to have pulled marginally ahead.
Now you’ve got your first wheels sorted, it’s time for the insurance. Check out our 6 IDEAL tips for car insurance first timers over here.