These premium cars will help keep your insurance low and your confidence high as you take your first steps in your driving adventure.
Being a new driver can be a scary and intimidating experience. In addition to understanding everything about how to drive, experiencing other drivers and real-life situations on the road for the first time can be quite stressful – for fresh-faced drivers and worried parents alike.
That’s why the type of car first-time drivers use is very important. Ensuring the car has all the features you need and doesn’t need to be towed to the garage every few months will reduce the pressure and allow you to focus solely on driving. This will make everything much safer, easier, and ultimately more enjoyable.
So we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best first cars for new drivers to make those initial miles as easy as possible and set you up for the best start to your driving career. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest cars to insure for new drivers or the best automatic cars for new drivers, there’s bound to be something for you here.
WHAT ARE OUR CRITERIA?
- Standard ESP
Since it became legally required in 2014 for all new cars across Europe to be equipped with Electronic Stability Program, or ESP, it’s no surprise that this is one of the things we look for. But it’s not just because we have to; ESP is a life-saving technology. This umbrella term incorporates systems such as traction control and anti-lock braking systems to help you drive more safely by analyzing data on the car’s speed or position to help you stay on track. And it certainly works well – British studies indicate that your chances of being involved in a fatal accident are reduced by 25% with ESP.
Note: some manufacturers have different names for this system (ESC, VDC, or VSA), but all the cars we’ve chosen are equipped with it.
- Minimum four-star NCAP crash test rating
Another essential safety measure for new cars is their crash test performance. The road safety charity Brake conducted research on the rate of new road accidents and found that although 17 to 19 year-olds make up only 1.5% of driving license holders, they are involved in 9% of all fatal and serious accidents in the UK. This study doesn’t suggest why, but it’s quite clear that all safe cars for new drivers must be robust enough to withstand a crash. By ensuring that all cars achieve at least four stars in the Euro NCAP safety test. - At least four stars in the Ecotest
Although this might be the first car you buy, it hopefully won’t be the first in a long line. That’s why it’s always important to think ahead, both for your car and the planet. With increasingly strict standards and rigorous testing processes, it’s important to select an environmentally friendly car that scores low in the EU Ecotest and has low emissions. Not only does this mean you’re doing your part to limit the effects of global warming, but it also means you won’t fail your MOT or be charged an extra emissions tax soon for emissions. - Front, side, and head airbags
1973 was the year James Bond hit our screens in ‘Live and Let Die’ and Pink Floyd released what is still the best-selling album by a British artist, ‘Dark Side of the Moon’. These events now seem like ancient history, which is why it would be unthinkable not to buy a car with airbags, which themselves were first introduced in 1973. Airbags are a crucial part of a car’s passive safety system, and by choosing only cars with front, side, and head airbags, we give new drivers the best chance of protection in a collision.
- Reliable technology
This has less to do with safety and more with comfort, allowing novice drivers to focus solely on the road. If your car’s technology constantly needs fixing, it will mean many otherwise avoidable trips to the garage, unnecessary expenses, and overall, a less enjoyable driving experience. These cars are all equipped with the best reliable technology to prevent this from happening.
BEST CARS FOR NEW DRIVERS
1. FORD FIESTA
The Fiesta is known for its affordable price, peppy engine, and many extra features. It has a sporty look, and this is matched by its performance; it handles well on the road and is reliable.
Regarding systems and technology, it comes with ABS, EBA, and electronic stability control, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, a DAB digital radio, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
2. VOLKSWAGEN POLO
With an engine ranging from 1.0-liter to a much faster 2.0-liter engine depending on the trim level, the familiar Polo name for new car owners. It is synonymous with reliability, a minimalist presence, and timeless performance. The latest ‘S’ model comes with specifications such as ABS, ESP, front disc brakes, and hill start assist.
3. TOYOTA COROLLA
After 10 years, the Corolla is back and offers a high hatchback option for new drivers. Available with a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine, a 1.8-liter VVTi (same as the Prius), or with a 2.0-liter powertrain, it is fast but remains an economy-focused device, with CO2 emissions of only 89 g/km and over 60mpg at its best.
4. KIA PICANTO
The Picanto’s compact frame and unique grille give it a sporty-looking car, with great performance and extra features. With five doors as standard, it’s one of the most spacious cars on this list and comes with electric front windows, a two-speaker stereo system, USB connectivity, automatic lights, and touchscreen satellite navigation.
5. RENAULT CAPTUR
A comfortable, unique interior and easy driving define the Captur. Whatever engine you choose, it is quiet, refined, and offers decent fuel economy. What is particularly appealing to novice drivers is the suite of driver assistance systems offered as standard, the five-star Euro NCAP rating, and Renault’s overall reputation for safety.
6. SUZUKI JIMNY
The Jimny has always been able to feel its individual character and charm with its adorable look, fun driving, and great off-road capabilities. However, it’s also an excellent car for new drivers who live in a non-urban area and need something reliable, stable, and ready for a challenge.
7. HONDA CIVIC
Certainly one of the more expensive cars on the list, the Honda Civic will provide a spirited performance as a first sedan with a powerful engine. A practical cabin and trunk, with a huge amount of storage (420-770 liters!), as well as an excellent standard technical kit. It’s definitely an option to consider.