The Safest Vehicles for First-Time Drivers

For novice drivers, a new automobile should be affordable, simple to use, and secure.

A novice driver will frequently get an outdated car, either from their grandfather who no longer uses it or from their father who sold it when he got a new one. Although it has several security flaws, it is the least expensive choice. Be extremely cautious in these situations since it is frequently assumed that a new driver would cause the car to suffer as a result of his or her logical rookie blunders and that, as a result, a used automobile is a suitable option.

However, a new driver specifically should have several active and passive safety features that previous ones do not have since he is more likely to make mistakes that might result in an accident.

The ideal scenario is to select a reasonably priced vehicle without sacrificing quality and safety. Remember that after the purchase, there will be further costs and upkeep. One last piece of advice is to research the after-sales support for the models you’ve been eyeing, as well as how many parts you can salvage from the model you’ve picked to save even more money.

The 10 Best Cars For First Time Driver

1.      2017 Honda Accord

Our ranking of the greatest cars for new drivers is headed by the venerable 2017 Honda Accord. Due to its appealing appearance, numerous amenities, and spacious cargo area, the lively Accord has long been a favorite among new drivers (15.8 cu ft). The 2017 model is the same. In 2016, Honda provided its well-known Accord with a facelift and upgraded technologies. The 2017 model, which uses the same 2.4L, 185-hp four-cylinder engine, benefits from this improvement. Additionally, this sedan has a helpful one-piece folding back seat that can be folded flat to store athletic equipment and bulky items.

2.      2018 Hyundai Elantra

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra, a classy compact sedan with a quiet interior and a smooth ride, is one of the finest first cars on our list. The Elantra was completely redesigned by Hyundai in 2017, and the second-generation Elantra GT made its debut in the 2018 model year. The 2018 Elantra’s base engine, a 147-hp, 2.0L four-cylinder, may provide inexperienced drivers with the push they require to merge into highways or pull out of crosswalks. Students could also like the 60/40 folding rear seat for transporting passengers and luggage for cross-country moves or road trips.

3.      2019 Toyota Corolla

There were significant ambitions for the Corolla’s future, even though it was only offered as a sedan for the 2018 model year. 2019 saw the introduction of a hatchback, which offers brash styling and more luggage room for inexperienced drivers or students with cumbersome stuff. The Corolla’s generous driver-assistance features are excellent for new drivers navigating highways and congested urban areas, and the car’s 132-hp, 1.8L four-cylinder engine is built to effortlessly move the Corolla ahead. The 2019 Toyota Corolla can fulfill the needs of novice drivers who seek a vehicle that makes them feel secure and comfortable.

4.      2017 Volkswagen Jetta

Even though the sixth-generation Jetta was the last of its kind, VW’s well-liked four-door underwent major improvements for the 2017 and 2018 model years. Music lovers of all ages may be drawn to Jetta’s new infotainment system, which as of 2017 includes USB connectivity and smartphone integration. A 1.4L engine with 150 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque and a 1.8L engine with an extra 20 horsepower are the two turbocharged four-cylinder engine options for 2017 Jettas. Due to its lower power output, the EPA estimates that the smaller engine achieves a highway fuel economy of 40 mpg.

5.      2020 Toyota Corolla

A list of great cars for drivers wouldn’t be complete without the Corolla. A new 2020 Toyota Corolla was introduced. Even novice drivers can keep up with traffic thanks to the 1.8L four-cylinder engine’s 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, which is included in the L, LE, and XLE trim levels of the Corolla sedan.  169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque are produced by the 2.0L four-cylinder engine used in the sportier SE and XSE cars. Toyota also announced the Corolla Hybrid for 2020, a stunning vehicle with a combined EPA rating of 52 mpg.

6.      2019 Hyundai Elantra

Anyone of any age or driving experience level might be able to find a 2017-2019 Hyundai Elantra that meets their requirements. The Elantra is available in a variety of body styles, including sedan and hatchback body types, the fuel-efficient 2017-2018 Eco, and the agile 2019 GT N Line. A renovated Elantra sedan made its debut in 2017; a model with stylistic changes came out in 2019. New drivers may be drawn to the Eco sedan’s inexpensive character as it gets an EPA-estimated 35 combined mpg from its turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder engine. 2 Even the 1.6L turbocharged engine in the performance-oriented 2019 GT N Line manages to get an EPA-estimated 32 mpg on the highway while still giving drivers 201 horsepower to enjoy.

7.      2018 Mazda Mazda3

The 2018 Mazda3’s small size may make it simple to navigate through traffic and park, whether at a supermarket or in the few spaces in crowded urban regions. Teenagers and inexperienced drivers have the chance to acquire useful skills and have some fun at the same time thanks to the six-speed manual gearbox that is an option. For those who want to let the Mazda3 do the shifting for them, a six-speed automatic transmission is available. In either case, this automobile might provide you a sense of assurance and control when you step behind the wheel if you’re used to utilizing public transit or a ridesharing service.

8.      Volkswagen up!

The upmodest !’s price and insurance group 10 or below status are what make it so appealing (except the hot GTI model). A 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine with 64 horsepower is the only one available in regular petrol vehicles, and it should deliver more than 50 mpg.

The up! doesn’t scrimp on safety while being so inexpensive to purchase and operate. Electronic Stability Control, many airbags, and a front-facing camera with multiple functions are standard on all new models. Interior quality also defies the affordable pricing, with newer models coming standard with air conditioning and a DAB radio with Bluetooth.

Even though the engine is only a small unit, it doesn’t seem overworked while making the odd journey down the highway thanks to the upmodest !’s proportions, which also make parking and driving easy and even enjoyable. Even the completely electric VW e-up! is an option if you’d like a zero-emission vehicle. It has the same degree of quality as the petrol car and a battery range of up to 159 miles, but it costs more as a result.

9.      KIA Picanto

The Kia Picanto, which is currently in its third generation, has evolved into a little vehicle with a dynamic appearance. However, despite Picanto’s more youthful appearance, it is still a highly practical option for a city car. Inside, there is a big selection of equipment for use across the board. Expect to get a hill start aid, automatic lighting, USB ports, and electric front windows. The Picanto is far more upscale than its predecessor thanks to improved soundproofing, improved engine mounts, and a redesigned engine cover.

The fuel efficiency of up to 50 mpg and cheap insurance rates for all Picanto trims should result in inexpensive ownership expenses. Additionally, maintenance concerns should be allayed by Kia’s legendary seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.

10.  Seat Ibiza

The Seat Ibiza is a king among new drivers. How many individuals have Ibizas as their learning vehicle? Its 1.6 TDI 105 CV (diesel) version uses less power when being driven around town or on the highway. Young people will continue to favor it as more generations go by.

Conclusion

For teens and novice drivers, getting their first automobile may be exciting. A good fit is essential to maintain that excitement. While friends and relatives may advise new drivers on their preferred car manufacturers, it’s equally crucial to look at automobile characteristics and the huge selection of fantastic used cars that are currently available.