Top Car Picks for Young Drivers
After passing your driving test, the next challenge is finding an affordable car that's safe, practical, and perhaps even stylish and fun to drive. Luckily, our latest list of the best first cars for new drivers shows that such cars do exist.
Buying and running a car can be expensive, so it's important to choose a car that offers good value, reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordable insurance. While many first-time car buyers may focus on used cars, some new cars can be surprisingly affordable. Our list features new cars that are ideal for new drivers. They are small enough to be easy to handle but offer enough features to keep new drivers safe and connected while on the road. These cars are also enjoyable to drive, helping new drivers gain confidence with every mile.
We've carefully selected cars that are compact, easy to handle, and manoeuvrable, while also offering a reasonable level of luxury and a high degree of safety.
One of the biggest challenges for new drivers is the exorbitant cost of insurance. However, some of our lease deals include insurance and maintenance for drivers over 21, which can be a cost-effective way to acquire your first car and is definitely worth considering.
Furthermore, if you can avoid making any insurance claims and have a year of trouble-free driving, you will earn your first year's "no claims bonus" which will reduce your insurance premiums for the following year. Our insurance-inclusive leases are fixed for up to five years with no differentiation for age, as long as you've held a license for at least 12 months and have no more than 6 penalty points.
At Car Leasing, we recommend choosing a petrol engine or EV, especially if you're only driving 10,000 miles per year, as diesel engines have a higher risk of problems with the diesel particulate filter. Additionally, we suggest opting for a car with a stop/start function, as this can help save on fuel and overall running costs.
With all this in mind, we've curated a list of what we believe are the top cars suitable for new drivers or young people.
VW Up!
Having been awarded the title of City Car of the Year for four consecutive years from 2017 to 2020, the Volkswagen up! is an excellent choice for a first car. Although it no longer holds the title, it still stands out as a great option. The up! is affordable, and all trims have an insurance rating of 10 or lower (except for the GTI model). The standard petrol models have a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, which generates 64bhp and offers a fuel economy of over 50 mpg.
Despite its low price, the up! doesn't compromise on safety features. All new models come equipped with Electronic Stability Control, multiple airbags, and a front-facing camera with multifunction capabilities. The interior quality is impressive, with air-conditioning and a DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity being standard features on new models.
The up! is a joy to drive, easy to handle and park thanks to its compact size, and surprisingly fun too. Although the engine is small, it doesn't feel strained even when driving on the motorway. Additionally, the VW e-up! is available for those who want an emission-free car, which offers up to 159 miles of battery range and the same high-quality features as the petrol model, but at a higher price.
Fiat Panda
Despite being one of the older cars on this list and an all-new model set to be released later in 2023, the Fiat Panda remains a strong contender for a first car. Its compact size offers excellent all-round visibility, clever storage options, and an entertaining handling experience. The latest models are powered by a 1.0-litre mild-hybrid engine, which keeps running costs low. Additionally, the Panda is a cost-effective option with affordable repayments available.
Fiat 500
As the car market rapidly shifts towards electric power, and with the UK ban on petrol and diesel cars set for 2030, you might be considering an electric vehicle right from the start of your driving journey. If that's the case, then the Fiat 500 is definitely worth considering. Despite being one of the smallest and most affordable EVs available, it has been named the 2022 City Car of the Year for good reason. Just like its petrol-powered predecessor, the 500 boasts a stylish design, only this time with the added benefit of zero-emissions. The 42kWh battery provides an impressive suggested range of up to 199 miles.
Dacia Sandero
The Dacia Sandero is a budget-friendly car that is one of the most affordable options available in the UK. The latest model is built on the platform of the Renault Clio, which is already a great supermini. While the Sandero's equipment may be more basic compared to other cars on this list, it still has all the essential features you would expect. At a starting price of less than £13,000, you won't feel like you're missing out. The Sandero is also a practical choice, with five seats, five doors, and a 320-litre boot. While it may not provide an exhilarating driving experience, it is reasonably inexpensive to insure for new drivers, with the Stepway version being in insurance group 12.
Toyota Aygo X
If you're after an SUV-like driving experience without the bulk and parking difficulties, the Toyota Aygo X could be the perfect solution. Although its 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine may not feel as modern as some competitors, it can still achieve over 50mpg. Inside the Aygo X, the cabin is colourful and comfortable. Even the base model comes with impressive features such as a seven-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera, and 17-inch wheels.
VW Polo
If you're looking for a supermini with a more sophisticated feel, the Volkswagen Polo is an excellent option to consider. Although it's larger than the VW up!, the Polo is still easy to handle and park. The base 'Life' trim provides a range of features, such as alloy wheels, automatic headlights, electronic stability control, a DAB radio, and rain-sensing automatic wipers. If you want more assistance, you can add the Driver Assistance Package, which includes parking assistance.
Kia Picanto
The Kia Picanto is now in its third generation, and it has evolved into a stylish and sporty-looking car. However, despite its trendy appearance, the Picanto is still a practical and sensible choice for young drivers. The cabin is well-equipped across the range, with features such as electric front windows, USB inputs, auto lights, and hill start assist. The Picanto is also impressively refined, thanks to additional soundproofing, tweaked engine mounts, and a new engine cover.
In terms of ownership costs, the Picanto is a cost-effective option, with fuel consumption that can reach over 50mpg and all trims falling into low insurance groups. Kia's seven-year/100,000-mile warranty provides peace of mind when it comes to maintenance.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Vauxhall Corsa is an excellent choice for a first car because it is a reliable, practical, and affordable vehicle that has been a popular choice for new drivers for decades. It's compact size and ease of handling make it perfect for navigating urban environments, while its safety features and fuel efficiency make it a smart choice for both the driver and their wallet. Additionally, the Corsa has a wide range of models and trim levels to choose from, allowing new drivers to find a vehicle that fits their budget and needs. The Vauxhall Corsa is a versatile and reliable car that has proven itself time and time again as a great option for first-time drivers.
Young Drivers and Insurance
When buying your first car, it's essential to consider the running costs. Insurance can be a significant expense for new drivers, but there are steps you can take to reduce the cost. One option is to accrue a no-claims discount, which can lower your premium over time. This means avoiding making any insurance claims for 12 months, which can lead to a percentage reduction in your premium. Maintaining a clean driving record will help you continue to grow your discount.
Another option to lower your insurance premium is to consider a car with a lower insurance group. Cars in higher insurance groups generally cost more to insure. You can also opt for leasing deals that include insurance, making it easier to control all your outgoings.
Another way to potentially reduce your insurance costs is to install an insurer-approved 'black box' in your car. This device monitors your driving performance, and your insurer can use the data to determine how safely you're driving. If you drive well, you may be able to receive a further reduction in your insurance premiums.