Passing your driving test may feel pretty rewarding, but getting the keys to your first ever set of hot wheels will get your adrenaline pumping for sure. At such a young age, a powerful engine or a luxurious sports car may not be your main priority (though it doesn’t kill to dream about it). The price of the car has to be relatively low, in order for you to be able to comfortably pay your monthly installments, and maybe even a secondhand car might work for you.

You would also want an easy-to-drive car that is reliable on the roads, especially since you have a lot less experience than other drivers. And also, don’t forget to get car insurance with Youi for that extra layer of assurance when you are out and about on the road. Purchasing your first car can be pretty exciting yet overwhelming with so many choices out there. Hence, we have collated a list of the top seven cars that are best suited to be your first car.

Nissan Micra

The older versions of the Micra may look slightly dull and unappealing but their newer models are certainly more pleasant to the eye. A relatively smaller car which makes it easier to handle as compared to the larger ones, it offers ample room for comfort and also boasts of its high-performance ability. Offering a host of trims and engine spec, you are able to customize your car according to your needs. It is also known to be fuel-efficient, especially the 1.2 DIG-S Acena that is able to achieve 65.7 miles per gallon (mpg). Despite its high praises, its price is still considerably affordable, proving to be one of the best first cars that you can get.

Toyota Aygo

If you do not need such a big car with a lot of interior space, the Toyota Aygo may be your go-to.  Despite it having a slightly cramped seating, its compact size makes it easy to whizz through traffic and convenient to park in small areas. The latest Aygo boasts of its improved aesthetic and higher-performing engines. Their 10-liter engines make it extra fuel-efficient, being able to achieve 60 mpg with less than 100g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. With this car, you can cut down on petrol prices and reduce the hole in your wallet!

Kia Picanto

The later versions of the Kia are known for their sleek and stylish exterior, though the older ones pale in comparison. It is definitely competitive in terms of its price points, making this a popular buy for younger drivers who do not have much savings just yet. Furthermore, the cost of insurance for this car falls on the lower scale, attributing to its high appeal. Though the engine is not the most powerful in the market, and higher speeds may cause the car to feel a little unstable, the car works just fine if you do not have long, rigorous drives often and maintain at a comfortable speed.

SEAT Mii

Similar to the Picanto in terms of price and performance, it boasts of its high drivability and easy handling. It is an extremely economical car, with one of the most efficient range and also has a start and stop function for you to shut off the engine when your car is idle or come to a stop. Being able to achieve up to 689 mpg, it is also equipped with a 1.0-liter engine that emits 95g/km of carbon dioxide, making it extremely eco-friendly and fuel-efficient. Not to mention, the car comes at an affordable price, making this a strong contender for a first car.

Renault Twingo

The chic exterior of the Renault Twingo will definitely be a head-turner on the road. Coupled with the compact size that makes it extremely easy to drive through traffic and squeeze through narrow lanes, this car makes the perfect first car for you. Plus, it has been awarded a 4-star Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) rating, giving it a triple check in terms of safety. The Renault Twingo is equipped with rear parking sensors and a hill-start assist system, ensuring a safe drive ahead. On top of that, it is also fuel-efficient, keeping carbon dioxide emissions under 100g/km.

Volkswagen Up!

An all-rounded car that is of great value, the Volkswagen Up! is highly sought after by both experienced and new drivers. Equipped with tight turning circles, this car boasts of its high ability to make sharp turns, park smoothly, and maneuver easily. Though it fares slightly worse than other cars on the price scale, its low running costs make up for it. It is inbuilt with a fuel-efficient 1.0 liter BlueMotion Engine that can achieve up to 67.3mpg. Because of its higher price-point, drivers are equally satisfied getting the secondhand alternative, while enjoying the benefits of this vehicle.

Suzuki Swift

A classic compact car that has been highly popular in the market, the Suzuki Swift has low running costs that will not fail you. The price point of this car is highly affordable, along with the low maintenance costs. Safety also comes first for this car, receiving a 5-star rating by Euro NCAP. Equipped with a hill-start assist, safety kit, airbags surrounding the interior, and electronic stability control, this car comes in number one when it comes to keeping your family safe. Proving to be eco-friendly as well, the 1.2-liter petrol engine gives out 99g/km of carbon dioxide, and is kept at VED band A. Available in both manual and automatic transmissions, this car is definitely worth every buck, serving as one of the best solutions to your first car headaches.

Conclusion

Regardless of what you need in a first car, there are plenty of options available in the market to suit your needs. A pro tip is to do research on the car that you are intending to buy, instead of merely purchasing it on impulse when you are viewing it for the first time at the forecourt. Identifying your priorities is a crucial first step to take, so make sure that you get a car that suits your driving habits, style, and needs.