Discover Top 10 Best Used Cars for New Drivers

Buying your first car is an exciting experience! Getting the keys to your first car sparks one of the first steps to independence. Plus with so many make and models on the market, it’s great fun finding one that reflects your style and individual personality. But finding the best used cars for first-time drivers can also be a minefield.

With so much on offer, it’s easy to lose focus and sight of what you need from your car and which are the best used cars for new drivers.

To help you find the best learner cars, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite cars for beginners. It covers everything from good cheap first cars to the best cars for learner drivers. So no matter what you are looking for, we’re confident you’ll find our round-up of the best cars for beginners the perfect place to start your research.

Let’s dive straight in and take a look at what we think are some of the best used cars for new drivers:

1. Ford Fiesta – A Great All-rounder

One of Britain’s best-loved and most popular cars, the Ford Fiesta is frequently one of our top-selling used cars. There’s a good reason too, the Fiesta has exceptional handling making it great fun to drive. With 3 and 5 doors on offer, you can decide which works best for you.

Ford has continually improved onboard kits and with a range of different specifications available you’ll be spoilt for choice. Running costs are comparable to others in its class, however, Ford is known for great value for money parts and servicing – so you might find you can save a little here.

2. Fiat 500 – Iconic Italian Design

The Fiat 500 is an iconic car – as well as offering unique and quirky styling, the Fiat 500 also offers impressive safety features and affordable running costs.

Known for its nippy performance and nimble handling, you’ll find navigating urban streets is hassle-free. What’s more, with a range of trims on offer as well as a good number of special edition models, makes finding a Fiat 500 that offers everything you need as well as having a stylish exterior a breeze.

3. Vauxhall Corsa – Classic First Car

In the Corsa, the engines have been geared to efficiency over performance which is great news if you want running costs to stay affordable. Plus with a host of trim levels available, finding something to suit your tastes shouldn’t be difficult.

You can choose from petrol, diesel and even electric power (if you have a bit more in your budget). The diesel will achieve a better mpg and offer CO2 under 100g/km, but unless you’re regularly covering a lot of miles, you’re probably better sticking to petrol, which is usually cheaper. Most Corsa models fall into low insurance groups too.

4. Volkswagen Polo – German Precision

For stylish good looks and an impressive interior, look no further than the Volkswagen Polo. The Polo is easy to drive and with a good safety record, scoring 5 stars in Euro NCAP testing.  It is available as 3 or 5 doors, and you’ll find there is adequate space in the back seats for your friends, with a boot that will happily accommodate your shopping haul.

The Polo is more expensive to buy than other cars listed but does offer competitive running costs. Plus insurance groups are generally low unless you opt for a GTI version.

5. Toyota Yaris – Small but Mighty

Known for being efficient and easy to drive, the Toyota Yaris also has a reputation for outstanding reliability. The 5-door layout ensures that back seats are easy to access and rear passengers will also welcome the generous amount of headroom. It is great for tootling around the city streets but equally at home cruising along the motorway.

With admirable mpg capabilities and low CO2 emissions, you’ll find the Yaris affordable to both run and tax.

6. Suzuki Swift – A Reliable Run-around

A used Suzuki Swift is an excellent choice for new drivers for several reasons. First and foremost, the Swift is known for its compact size and nimble handling, making it easy to manoeuvre through traffic and navigate tight parking spaces. Its responsive steering and agile nature make it a joy to drive, instilling confidence in new drivers.

Additionally, the Swift offers good fuel efficiency, making it cost-effective to run and maintain. The car’s reliability is another notable advantage, as Suzuki has a reputation for producing durable vehicles.

With a used Swift, new drivers can benefit from a well-built and affordable vehicle that provides a safe and enjoyable driving experience while they gain confidence and build their skills on the road.

7. Renault Clio – French Fun

The Renault Clio is synonymous with fun driving, excellent comfort and great value for money. There’s a good range of engines as well as a variety of different specs so finding something to suit your requirements shouldn’t be a problem. The Clio has always had bold interior and exterior styling so it’s great if you’re looking for something with distinctive style.

A popular choice amongst new drivers a sit is economical to run. For instance, servicing for newer models is only required every two years or 18,000 miles.

8. Mazda 2 – Stand Out From the Crowd

A stylish-looking small car the Mazda 2 offers something different to the hatchback market. The Mazda 2 is great to drive and offers an impressively quiet cabin even at motorway speeds. There’s a variety of onboard kits and technology available, depending on which model you opt for. 

Many Mazda 2 models fall into the £20 tax bracket and are economical with fuel, so offer great value for money motoring. You might find buying a used model slightly more costly but they are rarer, so if you’re looking for something different it’s definitely worth considering. 

9. SEAT Leon – Sporty Spanish Style

A used SEAT Leon would be an excellent choice for new drivers due to its combination of practicality, safety, and enjoyable driving experience. The Leon offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating and ample cargo space, making it suitable for everyday commuting and longer journeys.

In terms of safety, the Leon is equipped with a range of advanced features such as stability control, multiple airbags, and anti-lock brakes, ensuring the protection of both the driver and passengers.

Moreover, the Leon provides notable handling and performance, offering a balance between comfort and sportiness. With its responsive steering and smooth ride, new drivers can easily adapt to the car’s characteristics and enjoy the driving experience.

10. Audi A1 – A Chic City Car

A used Audi A1 would be an excellent choice for new drivers looking for a combination of style, performance, and advanced features. The A1’s sleek and sophisticated design exudes a sense of luxury and elegance, giving new drivers a car they can be proud of.

With its compact size, the A1 is easy to handle and manoeuvre, making it ideal for navigating busy city streets and tight parking spaces. Additionally, the Audi A1 offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with its precise steering and agile handling.

Despite its compact size, the A1 boasts a well-designed interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seating, creating a pleasant and refined driving environment. Moreover, the A1 is equipped with a range of safety features, including stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags, ensuring the safety of both the driver and passengers.