Taking to the road for the first time is an exciting milestone, but finding the ideal first car? That’s like being in a roundabout with no exit. We’ve scoured far and wide across the driving world to track down for you a fantastic selection of budget-friendly used cars that are not only cheap but also packed with personality and practicality.
1. Hyundai i10
Don’t let its compact size fool you; the Hyundai i10 performs in the city car segment. Fly through city canyons with ease, courtesy of its agile handling and quiet ride. Inside, there’s a spacious cabin to enjoy, so your mates won’t be squished like sardines on those nighttime excursions. And with insurance groups starting from 1E, your purse will smile.
2. Kia Picanto
Enter the Kia Picanto, a vehicle that shows good things do indeed come in small packages. With its lively acceleration and quick response to steering, racing around town is a breeze. The interior is upscale, and with Kia’s famous seven-year warranty, you can drive knowing you’re protected. Just be ready for a tad firm ride – imagine a gentle massage on wheels!
3. Volkswagen Polo
For those with a taste for the finer things, the Volkswagen Polo provides a touch of class in a diminutive form. Its silky ride and premium interior mean every journey is first-class. While it resides in a more expensive insurance group, the Polo’s comfort and build quality mean it’s a good bet for those who can afford its price.
4. Seat Ibiza
Put some shine into your travels with the Seat Ibiza. A versatile hatch that’s also sporty, it has excellent space and a pleasure to drive. Its sensitive steering and enthusiastic handling make it a pleasure on twisty roads, making your driving lessons anything but a chore.
5. Skoda Fabia
If pragmatism is the top priority, then the Skoda Fabia is your best option. With sufficient room within and a boot that can gobble up luggage without breaking a sweat, it’s ideal for a road trip on the weekend. Simple-to-use controls and silky smooth ride make the Fabia a good mate for new drivers finding their legs on the road.
6. Citroen C1
Nipping along the tight city roads is easy with the Citroen C1. Its small dimensions and tiny turning circle allow you to slip into the tightest parking spot. The bubbly character of the C1 and low running costs mean that it’s a favourite of learners and urban motorists alike.
7. Vauxhall Corsa
One of the most popular UK roads’ choice, the Vauxhall Corsa has set the standard as the first car choice for novice drivers. Its easy ride and comfortable nature guarantee that every day journey is a delight. There is one that will suit your style and budget with numerous used models available.
8. Renault Twingo
For the motorist who wishes to be unconventional, the Renault Twingo is a very attractive proposition. Its rear engine package gives it a roomy interior and turn-in that would cause a London taxi driver to turn a sickly shade of green. It’s not especially rapid from a standstill, maybe, but the Twingo’s charm lies in its eccentric looks and urban driving dynamics.
9. Toyota Aygo
Reliability and economy are the Toyota Aygo’s ace cards. The ideal little motor for new drivers who want hassle-free motoring, the Aygo has low insurance premiums and great fuel economy, so your motoring escapades won’t cost an arm and a leg.
10. Ford Fiesta
Wrapping our list is always a perennial winner-Ford Fiesta. Praised as fun-to-drive and being functional, Fiesta seems to always play it correctly when it offers you the appropriate measure of amusement combined with useful attributes. You would always see at least a few models suiting your personal tastes and wallets.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first vehicle is one of the fun experiences on your driving record. All these vehicles blend affordability, practicality, and personality, making your initial life on the road fun and memorable.
Remember to consider factors like insurance groups, running costs, and personal preferences while making your choice. You can use tools such as Full Car Checks to run a history check on your chosen model. This will reveal deciding factors such as insurance groups, running costs, and much more.
