Drivers who are new to the road will require a certain kind of vehicle. One that’s not too demanding, or expensive, and that will make the experience of driving as pleasant as possible.
The good news for new drivers is that this is a fiercely competitive section of the market, and there are plenty of options to consider, especially if you’re willing to go second-hand. Let’s assess a few of those options.
Vauxhall Corsa
The Corsa has been an extremely popular option for years. In its various incarnations, it’s offered a compact and manoeuvrable form, which makes it very easy to drive (and, crucially, to park). Because there are so many of them out there, you might have an easy time tracking down a second-hand one. This is also good news when it comes to maintenance and replaceable items. For example, Vauxhall Corsa tyres are sold by a variety of online vendors.
Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta has recently been retired – but its appeal is such that the demand for the vehicle still persists. In fact, prices of used Fiestas have been pushed up by booming demand. According to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, this was the most sold car in the third quarter of 2023, pushing the Corsa into a distant second.
It’s easy to see why. This is an extremely well-balanced supermini with no obvious weaknesses. It’s a pleasure to drive, it’s cheap to run, and it’s affordable.
Hyundai i10
This compact little vehicle is actually surprisingly spacious, and produces little in the way of emissions, which makes it a great match for life near a major city, and the accompanying low-emissions zones. Hyundai offers a five-year warranty on new i10s, which suggests that they’re confident of the car’s staying power. The car actually picked up the What Car? ‘City Car of the Year’ in 2014, and its appeal hasn’t faded too badly over the ensuing decade.
Renault Clio
The Fiesta might be the best-selling small car in the UK, but across Europe, it’s the Clio that emerges as the champion. If you opt for the later models, you’ll benefit from a host of driving assistance features. But older models will offer the classic benefits: great handling, a pleasant driving experience, and low running costs. It’s a classic for a reason!
Kia Picanto
What draws many new motorists to the Picanto is its incredibly low cost. It’s a value option that punches well above its weight. Even if you opt for the lowest-powered Picanto, you’ll be getting a car that’s incredibly fun to drive, and that will get you that independence on the road you’ve been craving.
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