The Best First Car For New Drivers

When you Google ‘best first car for new drivers’, the results are typically made up of posts recommending very specific cars.

You’ll most likely come across the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, or Mazda3.

But what if you don’t like any of those? Then what?

The truth is, when it comes to cars, there’s no one-size-fits-all.

In reality, every person has different needs and expectations. 

So the answer to the question is this:

It depends.

As a new driver, the best first car for you depends on what car brands you like, your reason for buying a car, what you can afford, and so much more.

But even with those things in mind, the search can seem endless. There are hundreds of car brands, thousands of models, and all sorts of features to choose from. 

However, there’s no need to get overwhelmed.

Below are 5 key things you should be looking for in a car, as a new driver. 

These will help you narrow down your search, so you’ll be one step closer to finding the car that’s best for you.

The Best Car For New Drivers:

1. Should be small…

Does size really matter?

When it comes to choosing the best first car for new drivers, it might be one of the things that matters most.

Picture this: you’re fresh out of driving school, still getting used to the whole driving thing. 

The last thing you need is a beast of a vehicle that feels like you’re trying to tame a dragon.

Big cars are definitely cool, but they can be hard to maneuver – particularly for the less experienced.

As a newbie, your spatial awareness might not be as finely tuned as a seasoned driver’s. That’s where a small car shines.

Small cars make things like parking and maneuvering through tight spaces a piece of cake.

For a new driver, this is a must.

2. Should have lots of safety features…

Safety isn’t just a feature; it’s the feature.

When searching for your perfect first car, keep your eyes peeled for vehicles with an impressive array of safety features.

Some features you might want to look out for are:

These safety features not only provide peace of mind, but they can also help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions, which, unfortunately, new drivers are more prone to. 

So don’t be afraid to put safety first.

You want a car that’s got your back – literally.

3. Should be the same transmission you learned…

Don’t worry, you actually do know what this is. 

There are two main types of transmission – manual (a.k.a shift) and automatic – and you would’ve learned one before getting your license. 

When it comes to transmission, here’s our simple tip – stick with what you know. 

You don’t want to buy a car and then have to learn a whole new transmission.

If you’ve spent your driving lessons learning automatic transmission only, it’s a bad idea to jump into a manual vehicle.

You’ll feel like you’re trying to drive a spaceship with no instructions.

4. Should be used…

We get it – the allure of that new car smell and the satisfaction of being the first one to christen those brand new seats is strong.

But here’s the reality check: new drivers often have, let’s say, a more adventurous relationship with their cars.

Parking scrapes, curb nudges, and the occasional “oopsie” moment are all part of the learning curve that unfortunately can’t be fixed with a cute little bandaid.

So, why not save yourself the heartache of seeing your shiny new car take the full force of your early driving adventures?

Going for a used car can save you a chunk of money and spare you the heart palpitations that come with the first inevitable scratch. 

5. Should be comfortable…

Driving can be a pain in the back – literally – if your car’s seating situation isn’t what it should be.

When shopping for your first ride, look for a car that doesn’t compromise on comfort. 

However, it’s important to know that comfort isn’t just about having plush seats and a cozy interior; it’s about an environment where you feel at ease.

Think roomy leg space, seats that match your height preferences, and no annoying obstructions in your sight.

These factors may seem like small luxuries, but they can make a big difference. 

Conclusion

Cars aren’t a one-size-fits-all deal.

Every driver’s needs and expectations vary, just like with most things in life.

However, when it comes to new drivers and their very first cars, there are a few things that should be on everyone’s checklist.

Your first car as a new driver should be small, have lots of safety features, be comfortable, be used, and have the same transmission as what you learned in driving lessons.

So, whether you choose red or blue, these five crucial characteristics are the roadmap to choosing a car that will help you have an amazing first driving experience.