Passing your driving test is a momentous occasion and a gateway to freedom out on the open road. Not only that, but it’ll represent the first time you’ll be allowed to drive a vehicle unauthorised, making you more confident in yourself and your road-going abilities. But, even though the process and exhilaration may be exciting, you need to put your sensible cap on and do your homework before purchasing your first set of wheels.
Forget high performance, big spoilers, side skirts and V8s – a small, sensible and economical hatchback is where you need to be for the first year of your driving. Look for cars with low insurance groups, decent reliability records and running costs that won’t break the bank. We’ve compiled a list of the best first cars you can buy on a budget.
With car insurance premiums on the rise, it’s more important than ever for new drivers to find vehicles they can afford. According to the experts, the average cost of a fully comprehensive policy has soared to £511, and for recently passed drivers, that number can be significantly higher.
VW Up!
The VW Up! was a city car produced by the German marque from 2011 until last year, when it was discontinued. Incredibly popular and cheap to buy - with the lowest iteration costing as little as £8,975 from new - the Up! also offers a wide range of kit, including air conditioning, electric windows, central locking and a smartphone-based media system.
It's also a great option for drivers looking for something cheap to insure, as most Up! models feature a 1.0-litre petrol engine that places them in some of the lowest insurance groups available.
The experts added: "This compact yet surprisingly spacious car offers great value, plus it's small and size and equipped with Bluetooth making it perfect for city driving."
Seat Ibiza
The evergreen Seat Ibiza "combines youthful styling with practicality", according to Swansway Motor Group. The well-loved hatchback, which has existed in various guises since 1984, can also be a cost-effective set of wheels for new drivers if you pick the 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine.
What's more, the latest generation Ibiza - first launched in 2017 - offers generous equipment levels at a price that undercuts its Volkswagen Polo sibling.
Peugeot 108
The little Peugeot 108 has been dubbed "both stylish and budget-friendly" and might be worth considering. But while it starts in a slightly higher insurance group of 6, its 1.0-litre petrol engine ensures running costs stay low.
The experts added: "For a bit more flair, consider the version with an electric canvas roof, which adds a convertible feel without a significant jump in insurance costs."
Skoda Fabia
For something with a "more mature feel", new drivers might want to consider the Skoda Fabia. Known for its reliability and comfort, the Fabia offers "a refined driving experience at a low cost."
Produced by the Czech brand since 1999, the Fabia has had various iterations - from hatchback, estate and saloon. However, for penny-pinchers, it's the 1.0-litre petrol engine model that should be picked up to ensure lower insurance premiums.
Hyundai i10
The stylish Hyundai i10 is the quintessential modern city car, and one that the Swansway Motor Group describes as "punching above its weight in terms of space and comfort."
First released in 2007, it's latest generation model is particularly well-regarded for its dependability and affordability. As mentioned, the 1.0-litre petrol engine is crucial to staying in the low insurance groups, and is also considered one of the best value city cars on the market.
The Best Cars For First-Time Drivers: A Summary
This comes as drivers were urged to look out for a Hyundai hot hathback that offers plenty of oomph on a budget - but is also great to use "day-to-day."
