When buying a first car, there are a lot of things a new driver will want to take into consideration before making their purchase. Perhaps the most important is figuring out one’s budget. It’s important to visit a dealership early on in the process to discover what sort of financing options are available, such as what kind of deposit the buyer will need to put down in advance and rates of monthly payment. Additionally, anyone in the market for a car will want to check their credit score as well as compare prices to ensure they’re getting the best deal.
Aside from the cost of the car, a first-time buyer will also need to think about what features they want to prioritize. While it may be attractive to choose a car with the latest technology or fanciest features, there are some more practical considerations one should keep in mind first. For someone who doesn’t have much experience behind the wheel, opting for a car that scores high in safety seems like a no-brainer (and will give assurance to any parents worried about their teen being out on the road for the first time). It’s also helpful to consider how fuel efficient the vehicle is since this can help reduce the amount of money the driver is paying in gas each month.
This list features ten brand-new vehicles that would be excellent choices for any new driver looking to buy their first car.
10 The 2019 Ford Fiesta
There’s a reason the Ford Fiesta is one of the best-selling cars in North America. This model is known to be easy to drive, making it a clear choice for any newbies on the road. Parents will appreciate the car’s enhanced safety features.
Most notable, the Fiesta boasts the impressive MyKey system, which allows parents to control both the stereo volume and maximum speed of the vehicle. It also has ESP, seven airbags, and an optional auto break. Not only that, but the Fiesta is simply fun to drive. It features SYNC voice activation, a spacious interior, and it has a low fuel consumption.
9 Suzuki Baleno
Fans of Suzuki will be happy to know that the latest version of the Baleno is new and improved in comparison to the older, more forgettable models. New drivers will appreciate the respectable four-star safety rating given to this model from the Euro NCAP, which is a step up from the meager three-star ratings its predecessor received.
Buyers have the option to choose between two small engines- either a 1.0-liter turbocharged booster jet petrol engine or a 1.2-liter mild hybrid. You might want to opt for the 1.0 liter due to its fuel efficiency and high rate of performance.
8 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
Many new drivers site fuel efficiency as one of their major concerns. After all, car payments and insurance are often high for someone just hitting the road, so saving as much on gas each month is a priority. The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient models on the market. Buyers will appreciate its sleek, hatchback style and reasonable price.
Not to mention, Hyundai has a 10-year/ 100,000-mile powertrain and lifetime battery coverage, making this a practical choice. Furthermore, the Ioniq also has a variety of important safety features, including automatic emergency breaking as well as optional High Beam Assist and Driver Attention Alert.
7 The Volkswagen Up! /Skoda Citigo /SEAT Mii
This is the same car, but with three names. While that might be confusing, there’s nothing complicated about what an excellent choice this vehicle would make for first-time drivers. One of the main selling features is its low price, making it perfect for anyone looking to invest in a car for the first time.
The VW UP! Has a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, making it efficient on fuel in comparison to other options. Furthermore, this car is known for its safety features, which will give parents peace of mind. It features six airbags and also offers auto brake as an option.
6 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid
One of the main things new drivers should be looking for in a vehicle is safety, as less experienced drivers are statistically more prone to get into accidents. The 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid has been voted one of the safest sedans of the year, Kelley Blue Book reports. In addition to this, it is also one of the most economical options.
It retails between $29,170 to $33,74 and is known for its fuel efficiency, meaning new drivers won’t need to worry about gas money and can instead focus on making their monthly payments. With a sleek, sporty look and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, this is an excellent option for drivers of any caliber.
5 2019 Kia Picanto
The newest version of the Kia Picanto features a sportier look, which will appeal to any new drivers who want to hit the road in style. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this vehicle is known for its reliability and practicality. Drivers can choose between a 1.0-liter three-cylinder or 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol engines.
The 1.0-liter engine features a more impressive fuel economy and mechanical refinement. After all, who doesn’t want to save on gas money? The vehicle includes features such as auto lights, hill start assistance, and even touchscreen sat-nav and infotainment in its top models.
4 SEAT Ibiza
One of the main reasons drivers love the SEAT Ibiza is because it offers such a quiet and comfortable ride while still offering a sporty aesthetic. Parents looking to buy their child a first-time car will appreciate how spacious the interior of this vehicle is, meaning their teen will be able to tote around their younger siblings with ease when duty calls.
The SEAT Ibiza received a perfect five-star score from the crash-testing body Euro NCAP, making it a great option for new drivers. It boasts six airbags and electronic stability control with emergency braking assistance.
3 2019 Honda Civic
If you’re looking for a vehicle that is both reliable and a classic, then consider the 2019 Honda Civic. This may be one of the most versatile cars on the market, as it is available as a sedan, coupe, or hatchback. It’s perfect for new drivers that are looking for something stylish yet on the smaller side.
Honda’s reliability not only means the car is bound to last you until you’re ready to upgrade, but it will also have a good resale value. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given the Honda Civic a 5-star rating, making it perfect for anyone who’s not yet confident in their driving skills.
2 2019 Mazda3
According to US News, the 2019 Mazda 3 is currently ranked #1 in Compact Cars. So, if you’re in the market for a smaller car that’s good on fuel and price, keep this vehicle on your radar. Fans of this car praise its user-friendly technology and well-rounded performance, making it known for being a comfortable yet stylish ride.
New drivers will appreciate how elegant its interior is, despite its reasonable price. Moreover, it’s said to be one of the most fuel-efficient, smaller cars out there, giving new drivers just another reason to take this baby home.
1 2019 Toyota Corolla
There’s a reason Toyota has wound up on this list twice! They have a reputation for safety as well as durability, which is why the classic Corolla is a great choice for anyone who’s looking for a practical sedan. “Toyota’s Corolla built its reputation by offering great value for the money, solid fuel economy and industry-leading quality. It retains these attributes for 2019 while also adding a great package of safety features,” Kelley Blue Book explains.
The publication adds that Corollas offer a smooth ride and are easy to navigate, making it a great choice for anyone who’s still a bit nervous while hitting the road.