Drivers

The best cars to buy as a new driver

Popular small cars that new drivers often consider for a first car, and what to think about on insurance, running costs and reliability before you buy.

Getting your licence takes a lot of work, and once you have passed, the next step is usually finding your first car. It pays to do your research first, because the wrong choice can make your insurance far more expensive. Keeping things practical for your first car makes a lot of sense.

Remember that buying the car is only the start, as running it can be costly. There are plenty of cars at sensible prices that are easy to keep on the road and inexpensive to maintain. Here are some popular choices to consider.

Before you buy any car, check its insurance group and get an idea of the insurance cost for that exact model and engine size. Prices vary a lot between versions of the same car.

Ford Fiesta

The Fiesta has long been a favourite in Britain, and there is a reason it has spent so many years near the top of the best-seller lists. It offers good value both new and second-hand, it has a reputation for reliability, and it is generally cheap to run and repair. The Fiesta is no longer made, but there are still plenty of used examples around.

Volkswagen Polo

The Polo is known for its smart design, solid build and overall quality. Newer models cost more because of their build and technology, but older models can be found for much less. It may not be the most exciting car ever made, but as a first car it is a sensible, reliable choice.

Peugeot 208, 206 and 107

All three suit first-time drivers. Peugeot has a long line of stylish small cars, and the older 206 and 107 are widely available second-hand, while the 208 is the more modern choice. Basic versions with smaller engines are the ones to look at if you want to keep insurance costs down.

Vauxhall Corsa

The Corsa is one of the most common cars among new drivers. Like the Fiesta, it is solid and reliable, and there are plenty of models to choose from. Many versions sit in low insurance groups, and used examples are easy to find. It is no surprise that it remains such a popular first car.

MINI Hatch and MINI One

The MINI is probably the most expensive car on this list, but it is increasingly popular with new drivers. It is a car people want because of its style and image, and it makes a great first car if it fits your budget. The entry-level One is the version to look at. MINIs are engineered by BMW and are known for their build quality.

Nissan Micra

The older Micra may not be the most eye-catching car, but more recent models are easier on the eye. What you get is a comfortable, dependable car that offers good value, with a practical mix of interior space and easy driving. Servicing can cost a little more than some rivals, but its reliability means you shouldn't need to worry about that too much.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 is fun to drive and usually more affordable than the MINI or some of the Peugeot models. Whichever version you choose, it offers good value with low running costs. It isn't perfect, but it ticks most boxes for new drivers and is worth a place on your shortlist.

Insuring your first car

Insurance is often one of the biggest costs for a new driver. To find out more about cover for new and younger drivers, see our young driver insurance and learner driver insurance pages, or read how we work.