What is a good first-time car?
Purchasing your first car is one of the most defining moments of adulthood. Cars can be expensive, so the best approach to owning your first car is by purchasing an inexpensive, fuel-efficient, and low-insured model. Finding the most remarkable first automobile for your budget is the next step after passing your driving test, and we're here to help.
As a first-time car owner, you have thousands of car options to choose from, ranging from small Minis to big SUVs. It entirely depends on how much money you're willing to spend on your first car. While many first-time car owners opt for used cars, getting a new car in the UK gives you a factory warranty and reduces the likelihood of mechanical issues.
The most popular first-time car is reported to be the Vauxhall Corsa, which is a common spotting when on the road. Other popular cars include the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio and Mini Cooper. For notice, these are all good small to medium-sized cars, which are affordable in many cases.
Ideal Car Size
Most cars fall into four primary groups: saloon, hatchback, estate, or SUV. There are also alternative shapes, including sports vehicles and people carriers. While many families opt for SUVs and estates due to their size, new drivers may not require as much space.
The hatchback is a popular choice for most first-time car buyers. Hatchbacks are typically smaller, more efficient, and less expensive to buy and operate than other car groups while still providing five seats and a large boot for your shopping. Due to their complexity, we do not recommend big cars for first-time buyers. If you really must buy an SUV, the best option is a small crossover SUV.
Recommended Car Brands
The ideal vehicle for a first-time buyer meets both your needs and budget. However, if you're still unsure where to begin, here are some of the most popular entry-level car models on the British market:
- Kia Picanto: The Kia Picanto appears to be the ideal small car. It's perfectly spacious in the front, and the stylish (if slightly dreary) dashboard is thoughtfully designed to make everything easy to use. It is inexpensive to purchase and run, offers excellent fuel economy, and has compact dimensions that make it fast in town. When you get inside the Kia Picanto, the no-frills attitude continues.
- Volkswagen Polo: Nowadays, there's a Polo for everyone, thanks to the wide selection of engines and trim levels available. Additionally, it features a refined interior that is well-equipped and user-friendly for any first-time car buyer. Previously, the Polo couldn't compete with other cars in its class because it was more expensive. But now, the Polo has given buyers a run for their money with its great deals.
- Ford Fiesta: The Ford Fiesta is a supermini car that has been sold in several countries since 1976. In contrast to many other compact cars, the Fiesta is positively contagious. Especially in the ST-Line Edition trim, the stiffer springs help the vehicle keep its balance while cornering, but they have little effect on the ride quality.
- Renault Clio: The Renault Clio was introduced in 1990 as a supermini automobile in the United Kingdom. Since then, four generations of this vehicle have been driven on British roads. Initially available as a three-door hatchback or a five-door estate, the Clio is now available as a four-door sedan and a five-door estate.
- Honda Jazz: The spaciousness and seating flexibility in the Honda Jazz rival other small cars. The Jazz is more than just a box on wheels; it's a beautiful car with lots of practicality. For instance, its hybrid powertrain provides exceptional performance and real-world fuel economy.
What is a good budget for a first car?
It's a good idea to create a preliminary budget for the car and then start calculating the various costs associated with owning and operating it. For instance, you might determine a budget and identify a model you want, but you realise you can't afford it when considering the cost of taxes and insurance. Hence, the need to factor these expenses into your budget. Other costs you should consider include road tax, fuel bills, and servicing costs. The size of your budget should ideally depend on your income and earnings. If you have a well-paid job with additional money on the side, then you should probably look around £15,000 whereas if you're in a lower paid job, it may be safer to go lower until you're receiving more. This is because the running and maintenance of a car can be costly in different areas.
Rather than jumping straight to a new car, you should look at used ones too, as they're cheaper and will save you money.
Conclusion
Purchasing your first car in the UK is easier said than done. The improvements in everything, including drivability, fuel economy, aesthetics, and electric motors, have made these cars easier to run, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly than ever before. In the end, the decision to drive is still a major one, especially for a novice. Before investing your money in your first car, evaluate some of the most critical facts, including your budget, car size, and car brand.
Don't forget that at the end of the day, the choice is yours and it's a big one that will stay with you for a long period of time so assess everything carefully and make sure those high costs are worth it!