Best first cars for a range of budgets

Best cars for new driver

So, you’ve finally passed your driving test. That means you now have a few options: continue to pootle around in your mum’s car when she’s not using it; beg your dad to buy you a brand new vehicle (good luck with that!); or splash out a few hundred - if not, thousands of - pounds of your own hard-earned money to buy yourself your very first vehicle.

It’s an exciting time to buy your first car, but like most people, you will be on a budget. Plus, never having bought a car before, how do you know what to look for? We take a look at some of the best first cars for a range of budgets to help you make up your mind.

Up to £500

For those on the tightest of budgets, it’s not always easy finding a vehicle that won’t simply fall to pieces the moment you get behind the wheel. That said, look hard enough and you will find something somewhere that suits your needs. Look out for such models as:

• Peugeot 106: Fun and easy to drive, the 106 is ideal for those first-time drivers looking for an agile runaround.
• Volkswagen Golf: A perennial favourite among all motorists, the durable and capable Volkswagen Golf can be relied upon by any new driver.
• Citroen Saxo: Like the 106, the compact CItroen Saxo is a cheap but effective runaround that is something of a cult favourite.

Up to £3,000

If your coffers are a bit fuller, the range of models available to you will open up significantly. What’s more, you will also find that, aside from city hatchbacks, the styles of vehicle on offer mean you have far more choice than before.

• Ford Fiesta: There’s plenty of reasons why the Ford Fiesta is a timeless favourite of new drivers, so get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself.
• Vauxhall Corsa: Like the Fiesta, the Vauxhall Corsa - in any iteration - is reliable, economical, and fun to drive.
• Honda Jazz: For those with a family to transport, or who simply wish for a bit more room, the Honda Jazz makes the affordable choice.

Up to £10,000

With car finance more affordable than ever, you may be tempted to spend a bit more on your first vehicle. It pays to remember, however, that the more expensive the vehicle you buy, the more expensive your insurance premium is likely to be. As such, the following models will prove affordable.

• Dacia Sandero: Available brand new for less than £6,000, this is a no-frills model that won’t let you down.
• Kia Picanto: A smart city runaround which is fun and agile to drive, the Kia Picanto also comes with the manufacturer’s acclaimed seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.
• Citroen C1: Chic and stylish, the C1 features a low purchase price, low running costs, and affordable insurance.

Whichever model you choose, always ensure you purchase from a reputable dealer such as Carwise Group in Harlow and Maidstone.