Buying your first automobile is often one of the most memorable milestones on the road to maturity; once you've passed your driving test, you'll enjoy an incredible level of freedom. However, because the expense of purchasing and operating a car might be prohibitive, the best approach to stretch your dollar is to choose a car that is reasonable, fuel-efficient, and has low insurance.

We've compiled a list of seven of the best new automobiles for first-time drivers. They're tiny enough to be handled - new drivers will be able to simply position them on the road - but they come with a few extra features to keep new drivers safe and connected. They're also enjoyable to drive, allowing rookie drivers to gain confidence with each mile.

Top 5 Best Cars for New Drivers

1. Ford Fiesta

Fuel type: Diesel

Body type: Sedan

Seating Capacity: 5

Fiesta is a good used subcompact car. The Fiesta not only handles well and has easy-to-understand infotainment system, but it also has a lot of safety features. This includes the ingenious MyKey system, which allows parents to limit the car's maximum speed, the audio volume, and set a seatbelt reminder when their children are behind the wheel. It also has seven airbags, ESP, and an optional autobrake system.

Young drivers will be impressed by the interior technology, which includes SYNC voice activation and air conditioning on Titanium models and higher. The Fiesta's wider proportions allow it to comfortably transport companions, and the three-door has a 292-litre box that extends to 1,093-litres when the seats are folded down.

2. Volkswagen Polo

Fuel type: Petrol

Body type: Hatchback

Seating Capacity: 2+3

The Volkswagen Polo might be one of the classier, comfier and more refined small family cars around, but it’s far from being the most fun to drive. The inside is spacious and well-made, with simple controls that even inexperienced drivers can use.

Although the Polo used to be available with a variety of petrol and diesel engines, the diesels have since been phased out. So you have a choice of 1.0-litre three-cylinder engines, with the mid-level turbocharged 95hp one being our favorite. It's more powerful than the non-turbo 80hp engine, but it's still fuel-efficient. We'd choose the six-speed manual transmission over the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

3. Skoda Fabia

Fuel type: Petrol

Body type: Hatchback or estate

Seating Capacity: 5

The Fabia is a very well built car. The Fabia backs up its well-put-together air with a good reliability record. The Fabia is a fantastic alternative for someone who doesn't give a damn about driving. It's well made, amazing value, and has a lot of subtle touches that will make long-term ownership stress-free and pleasant. It has smooth and refined engines, but it isn't particularly exciting to drive.

4. Volkswagen up!

Fuel type: Petrol

Body type: Hatchback 

Seating Capacity: 5

The Volkswagen Up is far more advanced than its size and appearance would suggest. It's spacious, stable on the road, and pleasurable to drive. Although the long gearing makes it difficult to drive in town, it is not overpowered by or underpowered for the occasional freeway excursion.

While this car comes in a 3 or 5 door configuration, the only engine available is a 1.0L three-cylinder, which is ideal for inexperienced drivers.  

5. Toyota Yaris Hybrid

Fuel type: Petrol hybrid

Body type: Hatchback 

Seating Capacity: 5

As the manufacturers of the world’s first mass-produced hybrid, it’s arguable that Toyota does it better than any other brand. The Toyota Yaris Hybrid is a supermini that gets a sporty look combined with great fuel economy and a genuinely fun drive. Plus, even second hand Toyota Yaris have great safety ratings, with the 2017 model receiving a full five stars from Euro NCAP.

Conclusion

We hope this list of ideal first cars helps you to narrow it down! With so many good cars for new drivers available, be sure to look through our selection of used cars to see what’s for sale in your area.