When you’ve just passed your test and are ready to get out on the roads, you want to make sure you’re driving a car which feels comfortable and easy to manoeuvre. Fortunately, there are plenty of brands which have specially crafted models with this in mind, with a range of compact, safe and smooth-driving cars.
To help you get to grips with the road whilst driving solo, we’ve put together a list of the best cars for new drivers, each chosen based on their size, safety rating, and price.
As a new driver, there will be certain things you look for in a new car that help you adapt to life on the roads. Whether you’re looking for the best used cars for new drivers, or something brand new, you should consider the size of the car, its handling and safety features, to help to make your transition from learner to graduate.
Whilst a saloon or off-road SUV may be your dream car, starting out with a model that carries a little extra bulk may not be the best idea when you’re learning to manoeuvre a vehicle. Instead, the best small cars for new drivers are a hatchback or supermini. These will be better suited to your needs as you’re able to work with much smaller dimensions and don’t have to worry about an extended bonnet or wide boot space.
Opting for an abundance of safety features is always a smart idea when choosing your first car. Whether it’s a rear-view camera to help with safe reversing or brake assist to help with an emergency stop, you can reduce the risk of an accident by seeking additional support from your car’s features.
The best cars for new drives should have responsive steering and steady handling to give you as much control over the vehicle as possible. These features will keep you on the straight and narrow, helping you navigate any tricky turns or tight spaces. A fully adjustable seat and steering wheel can also help maintain a comfortable driving position whilst making sure you have a full, clear view of the road.