What is the best Audi for a first car?

Why are Audis good first cars?

Audi is known for being a luxury car manufacturer that offers high-quality models with a flair for performance, tech and ultra-modern styling.

You might not immediately consider a premium car like an Audi when looking for a first car, with the ‘old banger’ being the go-to option for most learner drivers.

An Audi can be a great choice for a relatively affordable good first car if you want something that will still be enjoyable to drive once you get your confidence on the roads.

Audi cars are also high-quality and reliable, meaning these are dependable options that are ideal for someone new to the roads.

Having a slightly flashier car can also mean that you’re more likely to watch out for bumps and scrapes that wouldn't feel as big of a deal in cheaper, more basic cars.

This can encourage more considerate driving and good driving habits.

Is an Audi A1 a good first car?

If you’re set on an Audi as your first car but still want that small car feel, the Audi A1 is the entry-level option in the range and is ideal for learner drivers.

With five seats and up to 365 litres of boot space, the A1 is compact but spacious enough for even a small family.

Models get ISOFIX car seat points, six airbags and driver aids such as hill-start assist and stability control. These features make it a safe and dependable car to get on the road in.

The most economical engine is the 1.0-litre 30 TFSI, offering up to 52.3mpg. Insurance can be affordable as well, as models usually start in insurance group nine and go up to group 38 for the flashiest models.

If it sounds right up your street, check out our Audi A1 review to learn more about all the details

Is an Audi A3 a good first car?

The Audi A3 is a brilliant option for a family hatchback, but it can also be a spacious first car.

It’s larger than the A1 and has a more aggressive feel to it, so it might feel like a bigger step up from more traditional first cars. Here's what our Audi A3 review has to say about this model.

You’ll also find similarities with the VW Golf and SEAT Leon – two other brilliant first-car options. They all share many of the same underpinnings, reinforcing the reliability of the car.

The most efficient engine is the 1.6-litre TDI diesel that’s capable of up to 72.3mpg and keeps running costs low.

Insurance groups for the A3 range from group 14 to 46, however, so it could be pricey for a first-time driver.

Should I get an Audi A4 as a first car?

A sleek executive car with plenty to offer, the Audi A4 could be a first car for a very lucky driver. It’s probably not the first option we’d consider in Audi’s lineup, but it’s reliable and well-built with plenty of features that make driving easy.

The A4 comes in a range of trims, but the entry-level Technik will be ideal for most new motorists. You’ll get features like parking aids and cruise control for some extra support on the roads. Read our Audi A4 review to discover more about its cool tech features.

It will likely be more expensive to insure for new drivers as it sits in insurance groups 19 to 40. It can be efficient to save money on fuel though, offering up to 53.3mpg from the 40 TDI engine.

Is an Audi TT a good first car?

An Audi TT as a first car might be controversial – it is a sports car, after all. This luxury sports coupé is dreamy to drive and even comes in a convertible model, and all models get an impressive interior.

As a new driver, the TT could be slightly overpowering. It’s a speedy model with a 0-62mph time of 6.6 seconds, so it competes with hot hatches well. The largest engines are even speedier, with 311hp on offer.

TT models will usually sit in insurance groups 30 to 38, making them pricier to run. Efficiency figures sit at 46.3mpg in the 40 TFSI option, so these aren’t the most economical on fuel either.

The Audi TT might be a dream car for lots of first-time drivers, but it might not be the most sensible option.

If you can afford the running costs and aren’t intimidated by the styling and power, however, the TT could be your perfect first car. Take a look at our Audi TT review to learn more.

Are Audis expensive to insure?

Audi cars can be pricier to insure for first-time drivers, but much of the cost will be based on your individual circumstances.

Car insurance costs are largely based on the purchase price of your car, as this means it’ll be more expensive for the insurance to pay out in the case of an accident or if the car is written off.

The more expensive your car is, the pricier you can expect your insurance to be.

Insurance tends to be higher for new drivers as insurance providers consider them to be a higher risk.

If you’re new on the roads, you might want to opt for a cheaper Audi to insure – like the A1 – until you build up your experience.

If you end up getting points on your licence or any driving-related offences, this can see your Audi insurance shoot up as well.

In general, Audi models sit in insurance groups 13 to 50, so there are plenty of cheaper options if you have your heart set on the brand but need to stick to a budget.

Which Audi should I buy as my first car?

The Audi you choose for your first car will depend on your budget, priorities and needs.

For most people, the Audi A1 will be the perfect first car with a luxury edge.

It’s still pretty cheap to run and insure, but it has that premium touch that will keep you invested in your car when you’ve found your feet on the roads.

A used Audi A3 can also be a great first car option if you want something bigger, and there are also used Audi A2 models on the market that you might also want to consider for a step up from the A1.

Choosing a used Audi for your first car is a great way to save money when purchasing your vehicle, and you might also be able to secure a finance deal to spread the costs.