First Cars
A first car is as much about what it costs to run and insure as what it costs to buy. Getting this balance right matters more for new drivers than almost anyone else.
Insurance group matters more than the price tag
New drivers often find insurance costs more than the car itself in the first year. Smaller engines, lower insurance groups (typically groups 1–10), and cars with good safety ratings tend to be significantly cheaper to insure.
Popular first cars in the UK include the Volkswagen Up, Toyota Aygo, Hyundai i10, Ford Fiesta, and Skoda Citigo — all known for low running costs and reasonably cheap insurance and parts.
Black box (telematics) insurance policies can bring costs down further for careful drivers, and are worth considering alongside the car itself.
What to prioritise beyond price
Good all-round visibility and simple controls help build confidence in the first year of driving.
Safety features like electronic stability control, multiple airbags, and a decent Euro NCAP rating are worth checking for, even on a budget — many small cars from the last decade score well.
Reliability matters more for a first car than outright features — a well-maintained older car often beats a newer one with a patchy history.
Whatever you're looking at, it's worth reading our guide on what to check before buying a used car before you view anything in person.