Top 10 Best Cars for First-Time Drivers

Vehicle Reviews & News

Starting out on the road can be daunting, but choosing the right first car makes all the difference. We’ve rounded up the top 10 cars for new drivers. These models are reliable, affordable, safe, and easy to drive.

Posted on 9 Feb 2026 Posted by Jess Stanbrook

Renault Clio

The Renault Clio 1.0-litre TCe is a standout first car, blending nippy town performance with excellent fuel efficiency. Easy to drive, affordable to run, and in a low insurance group, it is a smart pick for new drivers. With over 17 million sold, top safety ratings, and a stack of awards, the Clio has earned its reputation as stylish, trustworthy, and budget-friendly.

Å koda Fabia

The Å koda Fabia combines nimble town driving with excellent fuel efficiency. Easy to drive, affordable to run, and in a low insurance group, it is a smart choice for new drivers. With strong reliability, top safety ratings, and a practical, spacious interior, the Fabia is a stylish, trustworthy, and budget-friendly way to start life on the road.

SEAT Ibiza

The SEAT Ibiza blends stylish design with compact, easy-to-drive handling. Affordable to run and in low insurance groups, especially with 1.0-litre engines, it is a smart choice for new drivers. Built on VW Group technology, the Ibiza offers solid reliability and a mature driving experience.

Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10 is easy to drive, affordable to run, and surprisingly spacious for its size. With low insurance groups and efficient 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre engines, it is practical for city driving while remaining stable on motorways, making it a perfect first car.

Dacia Sandero

The Dacia Sandero is an affordable, practical, and easy-to-drive first car. With low running costs, simple maintenance, and modern safety features, many shared with the Renault Clio, it is a smart, budget-friendly choice for new drivers.

Peugeot 208

The Peugeot 208 combines stylish design with easy, city-friendly driving. Compact, affordable to run, and easy to park, it is ideal for new drivers. Efficient engines, including a 1.2-litre petrol, make it a great choice for those starting out.

Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is easy to drive, city-friendly, and highly reliable. With efficient 1.0-litre engines, a high-quality interior, and 5-star Euro NCAP safety ratings, it is a smart, budget-friendly first car.

Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa is easy to drive, city-friendly, and practical for its size. Affordable to insure, simple to park, and efficient with 1.2-litre petrol or 1.0-litre turbo engines, it is a smart choice for new drivers.

Kia Picanto

The Kia Picanto is reliable, affordable, and easy to drive. With low insurance groups, simple 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre engines, and excellent visibility, it is perfect for new drivers learning the ropes in city traffic.

Mazda 2

The Mazda 2 combines compact, easy-to-drive handling with low running costs. Reliable, fun to drive, and surprisingly premium inside, it is ideal for new drivers looking for style and practicality in one package.

 

 

Conclusion


Choosing the right first car is about balancing safety, affordability, and ease of use. Any of these top 10 models provide reliability, low running costs, and a stress-free driving experience, making them ideal for new drivers stepping onto the road for the first time.

Stay connected with Rivervale

Rivervale Logo