Whether you’ve just passed your driving test or you’re scoping out potential ideas for your first car, these models have made it to the list of the eight best cars for new drivers. 

With sleek designs and smooth rides, our list has everything you need for your new car as a new driver. Read on to find the perfect car for your needs and preferences. 

If you’re an eager reader who still needs to take their practical test or book lessons, browse our services today. We will have you on the road and behind the wheel of your dream car in no time. 

Key Features to Look for in Your First Car

Selecting your first car can be overwhelming when there are so many things to consider. 

However, there are a few critical factors that can help you narrow down your search:

  1. Affordability: Look for cars with low insurance premiums, good fuel efficiency, and reasonable maintenance costs. 
  2. Reliability: Consider the reliability of the car to save on repairs and maintenance issues. 
  3. Safety: Look for cars with high Euro NCAP ratings and features like electronic stability control, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. 
  4. Ease of driving: Opt for a car with compact dimensions, good visibility, light steering, and responsive handling. 
  5. Fuel efficiency: Consider cars with good miles per gallon (MPG) to reduce long-term costs. 
  6. Comfort and practicality: Opt for comfortable seating, sufficient legroom and a good-sized boot for storing items. 

Eight Best Cars for New Drivers

1. Skoda Citigo

This is a popular choice for beginner drivers with its compact and city-friendly design. Some key features include: 

  • Affordable: Its low initial price is perfect for first-time buyers.
  • Low Running Costs: It has excellent fuel efficiency and lower insurance premiums.
  • Reliable model: Skoda is known for its durability and dependable performance.
  • Safe to run: It’s equipped with essential safety features like airbags, ABS, and ESC.
  • Practical: It has a spacious interior and flexible cargo space.

2. Toyota Aygo

The Toyota Aygo is a small but excellent car for new drivers. It’s compact design is easy to manoeuvre, perfect for those who live in the city. 

Some other benefits include: 

  • Fuel efficiency: it has great mileage, which reduces fuel expenses and is ideal for long trips.
  • Low insurance costs: This is affordable for new drivers who often face higher premiums.
  • Reliable performance: Toyota is reputable for its great engineering, offering long-lasting cars.
  • Enjoyable driving experience: It has agile handling and responsive steering for a smooth ride.
  • Customisable looks: It has a bold design with colour customisation and styling packs.

3. Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10 is the perfect entry car for driving, with practicality and comfortability. Its small size makes it easy to navigate and park. 

Some other key features include:

  • Economical to buy and run: It has an affordable purchase price with low insurance costs and fuel consumption.
  • Safety features: It’s equipped with advanced braking systems, airbags, and stability control for peace of mind.
  • Modern tech: It includes an infotainment system with smartphone integration, a rearview camera, and keyless entry for practicality. 
  • Stylish design: Its eye-catching exterior is ideal for those who prefer an attractive car. 

4. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta offers a balance between fun and practicality, making it a popular choice for UK drivers. Its compact design and spacious boot are perfect for those who will be going on long trips and overnight stays often. 

Some other key features include: 

  • Advanced safety: This offers ABS, airbags, traction control, and a MyKey system for setting speed and audio volume limits. 
  • Affordable and eco-friendly: Its engine is cheaper to refill, and it produces low Co2 emissions. 
  • Enhanced tech: It comes with smartphone integration, bluetooth, and navigation for tech lovers. 
  • Spacious interior: It has a decent-sized boot and enough leg room for a comfortable journey. 

5. Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is a great contender in the mini car department. Its low design, comfort, and ease of driving make it a go-to choice for those just getting onto the road. 

Some other key features which make it a popular first-time car include:

  • Premium quality: This design is praised for its solid construction and high-quality feel compared to other models.
  • Fuel efficiency: Its long-lasting engine is perfect for those who need their car daily or for long trips. 
  • Engaging driving experience: Its precise handling and smooth riding make it an enjoyable ride for drivers, new and old.
  • Fatigue detection system: The Volkswagen Polo offers a unique feature which monitors the driver’s inputs and suggests taking a break if patterns indicate tiredness, or detects safety hazards.

6. Mini Hatchback

Though not the most spacious, the Mini hatchback’s attractive design and unique character appeal to car enthusiasts or those looking for a distinctive first car.

Some popular features include: 

  • Powerful engine: You can choose between a range of economical and high-performance engines, such as the sporty John Cooper Works model.
  • Great driving experience: This car is beloved for its nimble steering, go-kart-like handling, and comfortability. 
  • Enhanced safety: It offers a mix of standard and advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.
  • Heated seats and steering wheel: For those looking for a unique car, this offers heated seating and a steering wheel for added comfort during winter.

7. Fiat 500 Electric

This has a higher cost than other cars on this list; however, its electric engine and iconic design make it worth the money. It is the perfect option for those who live in a bustling city.

Some features which make it a worthy investment include:

  • Zero emissions: Its fully electric design provides emission-free driving for an eco-friendly vehicle.
  • Fast-charging capability: Its battery can be charged quickly for efficient top-ups and reduced downtime. 
  • Competitive range: This is the ideal car for both city commutes and longer journeys, offering duality and versatility. 
  • Instant torque: Its rapid acceleration and responsive handling allow for greater control over its speed and enjoyable driving experience.

8. Renault Clio

The Renault Clio offers a more powerful hybrid system. This is an admirable model for its mini design, practicality, and modern interior. 

Features which make this a great contender for your first car include:

  • Range of efficient engines: You can choose between petrol, diesel, or a hybrid engine to suit your preferences. 
  • Affordable: This is a fuel-efficient car, ideal for those with a smaller budget. 
  • Advanced safety: Automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning provide extra safety and peace of mind when on the road.
  • High-tech interior: For technology enthusiasts, this car offers a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, automatic climate control systems and more. 

Choose Ashley Neal for Your Driving Lessons

At Ashley Neal, our mission is to help as many people get onto the road as possible. 

Our professional and friendly driving instructors will have you ace your driver’s test and move one step closer to buying your dream car in no time. 

With over 20 years of experience in the field, we have helped thousands of people get behind the wheel. Check out our driving lessons today, or book your practical test with us.