Top Five Cars For First-Time Drivers
Everyone remembers their first car as it resembles a rite of passage and provides a sense of freedom unlike any other. When looking at cars for first-time drivers, what would be the best choice?
Cars for first-time drivers should tick a few important boxes. It should ideally be low in price, cheap to insure, safe and easy to drive. For most new or younger drivers, price and low running costs are among the most important considerations.
Our Choice Of Cars For First-Time Drivers
1. Opel Corsa
Opel Corsa
The Opel Corsa has seen many transformations over the years and has long been a firm favourite among teens and first-time car buyers.
While the newest models are the quickest to sell, many people are still looking for older generation Opel Corsa models, including the discontinued Used Corsa Bakkies. Popular year models include 2012, 2015, 2016 and 2017.
This small car is not only affordable but also easy to drive and park with low insurance and fuel costs. Some of the later models come with many safety and driver comfort features.
Although similar in size to the previous generation of Corsa vehicles, the current Opel Corsa E (2014 – present) has a more modern interior and refined exterior styling.
It’s worth noting that all current Opel Corsa derivatives in South Africa are petrol-driven but you can still find some older generation models with diesel options, although they are rare.
2. Volkswagen Polo
Volkswagen Polo
The VW Polo needs no introduction as it’s been around for some time and is among the most popular cars for first-time drivers. Available in South Africa since the early 1990s, you will find many different Volkswagen Polo models for sale in South Africa.
While we all admired the tenacity of the VW Golf MK I and the VW Chico, the Volkswagen Polo has proven it’s worth time and time again. When you think of the VW Polo, what comes to mind first? Anyone who owned one will agree that it is reliable, affordable and economical and a true value-for-money option.
This compact, affordable and cheerful car is ideal for teens, students or any first-time driver. Available in several trim levels and various engine options with several safety features, the VW Polo is ideal for city driving and taking on the open road.
3. Ford Fiesta
Ford Fiesta
What can we say about the Ford Fiesta? This little gem has been around for a while and, like the Opel Corsa, it has been redesigned and reimagined over the years.
From the much-loved fourth-generation, Ford Fiesta (1995 – 2002) to the current 7th generation (2017 – present), these small, economical and stylish cars have been a common sight on South African roads.
While there are many great variants, some of the most popular Ford Fiesta cars for first-time drivers include the Ford Fiesta 1.0-litre EcoBoost and the 1.5 TDCi Ambiente for even better fuel economy and torque.
The Ford Fiesta is a great all-rounder and ideally suited for first-time buyers and small families alike. It’s cheap to run and to insure while it’s pretty easy on the eyes as well.
4. Kia Picanto
Kia Picanto
The Kia Picanto is among the newest on the list of cars for first-time drivers as it was only introduced in 2004. Since then, it has made name for itself as a well-built, reliable and economical car for a relatively low price.
Whilst the Kia Picanto has evolved over the years into a young and sporty-looking small car with the latest aesthetics, it remains a very practical city car. Initially aimed at younger drivers, the Picanto has become popular among working professionals looking at a more cost-effective way to travel.
Considering the size, price, comfort and standard features, older people also love this compact urban warrior. There are many great options including the second-generation Picanto which has one of the highest safety ratings ever for a car in its class. It scored a 5-star safety rating on the Australian NCAP test!
5. Renault Clio
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio is another example of what cars for first-time drivers should look like with that French flair inside and out.
From the first-generation Renault Clio in 1998 to the latest Clio IV, the entire range has proven to be reliable, economical and a particularly popular choice for students, young professionals and small families.
When looking at cars for first-time drivers, few can argue the value for money the Renault Clio has to offer. With many engine options and trim levels to choose from, including the economical 0.9-litre Turbo Dynamic, the 1.2-litre Renault Clio Expression and the 1.5-litre diesel.
While the latest Clio is unbeatable in terms of reliability and affordability, any model variant you choose will be a good one!
Conclusion: Cars For First-Time Drivers
When buying cars for first-time drivers, you’ll likely want the safest option and while that often means buying a new car, not everyone can afford that. The good news is that you can get top-quality used cars for first-time drivers from Group 1.
Our highly experienced team only looks for the best second-hand cars that are in excellent condition all around. To ensure everything is in good working order, every car goes through stringent checks for added peace of mind.
So there you have it, our list of top five cars for first-time drivers. We trust that this information will help make your decision a little easier as all of these vehicles are affordable, safe, easy and fun to drive with good looks to match.
