Buying your first car is a big milestone, especially for new drivers. Whether you’re just getting your license or upgrading from a family hand-me-down, the car you choose will play a crucial role in your daily life. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
When selecting a used car for a new driver, safety, reliability, and affordability should be top priorities. New drivers need a car that is easy to handle, comes with modern safety features, and doesn’t break the bank in maintenance costs. To help you make the right choice, here’s a list of the best used cars for new drivers in terms of safety, value, and overall performance.
1. Honda Civic (2015-2020)
The Honda Civic has long been a favorite for new drivers, and for good reason. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and excellent safety features, the Civic is a solid choice for a first car. It offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, which is important for new drivers still learning the ropes. Additionally, it comes with standard safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning on newer models.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Reputation for reliability
- Strong resale value
- Advanced safety features
2. Toyota Corolla (2014-2020)
The Toyota Corolla is another fantastic choice for new drivers, especially because of its low maintenance costs and impressive safety features. The Corolla comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense package, which includes pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. Plus, it’s known for being one of the most durable and reliable cars on the market.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Low maintenance and repair costs
- Standard safety tech like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision warning
- Great fuel economy
- Smooth, easy handling
3. Mazda 3 (2015-2020)
If you’re looking for a car that’s fun to drive but still practical, the Mazda 3 is a perfect option for new drivers. With its agile handling and excellent gas mileage, the Mazda 3 combines a sporty feel with everyday comfort. It also comes with a solid set of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Sporty, fun-to-drive nature
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Great handling for novice drivers
- Standard safety features
4. Hyundai Elantra (2016-2020)
The Hyundai Elantra is another great option for new drivers who are looking for a well-rounded car that offers good value for money. It has a comfortable interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a solid reputation for safety. The Elantra comes with forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist in recent models, providing peace of mind on the road.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Excellent value for money
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Modern safety tech like lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning
- Good fuel economy
5. Ford Fiesta (2014-2019)
For new drivers who prefer a smaller, more compact car, the Ford Fiesta is an excellent choice. It’s fun to drive, easy to park, and comes with a range of tech and safety features. The Fiesta also delivers impressive fuel efficiency, which helps keep running costs low. Although the Fiesta may not be as spacious as some other cars, its nimble handling makes it a great option for drivers in cities or tight parking spaces.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Small and easy to maneuver
- Affordable price point
- Great fuel economy
- Fun driving experience
6. Kia Soul (2015-2020)
The Kia Soul is an unconventional, compact car that stands out for its quirky design and spacious interior. Despite its small size, the Soul offers a surprisingly roomy cabin and a user-friendly infotainment system. It’s also packed with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, making it a good option for new drivers who value safety.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Unique, fun design
- Roomy interior for its class
- Great safety features
- Good value for the price
7. Subaru Impreza (2015-2020)
If you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions, a car with all-wheel drive (AWD) is a great consideration. The Subaru Impreza offers AWD as a standard feature, making it a great option for new drivers in regions with snow, rain, or rough terrain. The Impreza also has an excellent safety record, with standard features such as EyeSight Driver Assist, which includes adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Standard all-wheel drive for improved handling
- Great safety features
- Low repair costs
- Roomy interior
8. Chevrolet Spark (2016-2020)
The Chevrolet Spark is one of the most affordable subcompact cars you can buy. It’s ideal for new drivers on a budget who are looking for a low-cost, reliable car. The Spark is small and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for tight parking spots and city driving. Despite its small size, the Spark is surprisingly feature-rich, with a user-friendly infotainment system and solid safety features like a rearview camera and forward collision alert.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Low purchase price and operating costs
- Compact and easy to drive
- Advanced safety features
- Good fuel economy
9. Nissan Sentra (2015-2020)
The Nissan Sentra offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for new drivers who want a stress-free driving experience. The Sentra comes with a spacious interior and offers a generous set of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry. It’s also known for being a safe car with features like automatic emergency braking in newer models.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Comfortable ride
- Spacious interior
- Standard safety tech
- Affordable price
10. Volkswagen Golf (2015-2020)
The Volkswagen Golf is a versatile and well-built compact car that offers a premium feel at an affordable price. It’s known for its high-quality interior, smooth ride, and excellent driving dynamics. The Golf also comes with a variety of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, which can be a big help for new drivers.
Why it’s great for new drivers:
- Solid build quality and premium feel
- Excellent handling
- Great fuel economy
- Comprehensive safety features
Conclusion
When selecting a used car as a new driver, safety, reliability, and ease of use should be your top priorities. The models listed above provide a combination of these features, giving you peace of mind and confidence on the road. Whether you prefer a compact car for city driving or something with more space for long trips, there’s a used car out there that can suit your needs and your budget.
Before purchasing, always have the car inspected by a mechanic and consider factors such as maintenance history and the car’s overall condition. With the right vehicle, you can enjoy your time on the road while staying safe and keeping costs low!
