The Top 12 Cars for First-Time Buyers

The Twelve Best Cars to Buy When You’re a New Driver

As any first car buyer will tell you, it is one of the most thrilling things that you can go through, but at the same time can be very overwhelming. That's because there are many makes and models on the market and it can be difficult to know what kind of car will be best for you, especially if you are a first time car buyer. 

To take the pressure off of you, we’ve put together this list of 12 fabulous cars, which are perfect for the new driver.

Safety First

First time car buyers should accord high priority to matters of safety of the car. The types of cars that did well in the crash test ratings and the cars that come with basic driver’s safety aid such as automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. 

It is clear that these technologies can prevent mishaps and protect the insurance expenses. 

Reliability Rules

It means that you still want your first car to go on and on and therefore go for those cars which will not require frequent repairs. Toyota and Honda vehicles are noted for their reliability and long service life across the bore industry, and for holding considerably higher residual value than most other manufacturers. 

Do not forget certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles; they are a bit more expensive, but have factory-backed warranties good for longer terms than used-car warranties.

Ease of Driving

Is commuting stressful for new drivers? Well, those cars with good outward visibility, pleasant steering/acceleration for around-town duties would make commuting easy for new drivers. 

With hatchbacks and small SUVs, it is easier to manoeuvre than with full sized sedans and trucks. Add to that their higher ground clearance which makes viewing of the road easier.

Cost Consciousness 

And for most first time buyers, they require a car that is not only cheap but also inexpensive to maintain. Consumer awareness should not only be pegged on a vehicle’s Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price or MSRP but rather out the door price. 

Deduct all owner costs such as insurance, gasoline consumption and costs of maintenance over a period of time. The same as in the previous example, it happens that a cheaper car will actually be more expensive throughout a certain period of its usage.

Hyundai Venue

This new for 2024 subcompact SUV is affordable and offers a great deal for around $20,000. Forward collision warning and lane keep assist included are among the intelligent safety features in models such as Toyota Camry. Heated seats and leatherette interior on an optional basis make it feel truly opulent especially for an entry-level car.

Kia Soul 

Though it has recently received a restyling, and it is now more chic; the Kia Soul is a hatchback with good usability and copious affordability to boot. The car is powerful with a 147 horsepower engine and comes with impressive acceleration as well as 31 mpg combined according to EPA ratings. At the moment, all-wheel drive options give better grip in unfavourable weather.

Honda Civic

Once the darling of the ”first car” lists, Honda Civic is a winner with its smooth ride, expansive interior and outstanding safety ratings. The body type you have determines its suitability. To ensure power and efficiency, engines are provided in multiple options – suitable for new drivers.

Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa sedan is another of the least expensive new vehicles on the market today and gets the latest tech features from the brand. Active safety shield 360 brings together wanted driver helps. EPA estimated fuel economy rates up to 41 mpg in highways. That is a lot of cars for approximately sixteen thousand U.S. dollars.

Toyota Corolla 

The compact class gets unbeatable Toyota reliability in the shape of the world’s top-selling car. Select the SE grade for a sportier ride from an engine that delivers 169 hp and comes with a manual get. With Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 on board, any driver can have an assured and identifying sense of protection.

Hyundai Accent

It was under this model that Hyundai offered so much out of its Accent sedan for your money. It brings a level of aggression over other subcompacts while keeping starting cost stunningly affordable at about $17,000. Eco-friendly engines, as well as long warranties, make this car’s value prop even better.

Subaru Crosstrek

Of course, what first time buyer wouldn’t like the fun and thrill of the Crosstrek? This fun-sized utility vehicle is actually a hatchback with crossover manners due to standard all-wheel drive and 8.7-inches of approach angle. A cavalcade of driver aids, along with good safety scores in government tests, also are a reassurance.

Mazda CX-30

Positioned as a compact SUV beneath the CX-5, which has been a massive hit for Mazda, the CX-30 is just about the ideal size and has the right amount of utility. Relatively young cars inside and out it has a mountain of exterior appeal over more generic competitors. 

The bravery of the design, the handling, the quality of the build and the delightful details all of which are proof that Mazda is an automobile manufacturing company that takes its time to create vehicles that people love to drive – even when they are merely running errands.

Volkswagen Jetta

The compact Jetta is important for things such as an affordable base price for around $20,000, attractive technology and safety packages, and good fuel efficiency. Long-term costs are still attractive because of the high safety ratings, plus VW’s 6 years/72 000 miles bumper-to-bumper guarantee.  

 Kia Forte

One car model that users may not look at is the Kia Forte compact sedan. A fresh design grabs attention without making a declaration of devoted performance throughout a motor vehicle. Adequate performance and comfort level contributes to it outperforming expectations. Kia’s outstanding warranty service also comes as a guarantee of carefree driving in everyday traffic.

Toyota Corolla Cross  

Toyota aptly leveraged the Corolla brand when introducing this new small crossover model last year. Being related with the Corolla sedan it affirms to be just as economical and as reliable. It is well-equipped as a reliable safety car and a creature comfort that multiplies its potential as a daily-use car.

Mazda3

Very few other mainstream compact sedans would be able to deliver the Mazda3’s sort of driving character and attractive interior touches. Sporty handling refers to the brand’s Zoom-Zoom slogan while luxury crafted dials shame some luxury models. This arrangement also adds to its great utility especially when driving in town. 

Not a lot one might presume as one’s initial car.

And that’s my list of twelve great choices to brainstorm when you find yourself in need of your first car. Before choosing a car to buy, we suggest taking several for a spin simply to determine what is going to work for you the best. 

And you shouldn’t overlook insurance, fuel and possibly inevitable repairs costs as well. Happy car shopping!