Cheapest first cars for new drivers 2024
Buying your first car is exciting yet daunting, but don't worry – here are some of the cheapest cars we'd recommend to new drivers
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Cheap first cars
When buying your first car as a new driver, your budget is the first hurdle.
On the one hand, you don’t want to spend a fortune, but you also don’t want a car that’s on its last legs.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the cheapest used first cars you can buy in 2024.
Peugeot 108)
The Peugeot 108 is the smallest hatchback the French manufacturer makes, and this means it’s often one of the cheapest on the used car market.
When it took over from the 107 model, this little city car blew the press away, thanks to its great standard kit and choice of either a manual or automatic gearbox.
All Peugeot 108 models have one engine option on offer, which is a 1.0-litre engine (although earlier models had a slightly larger 1.2-litre engine).
Plus, a used Peugeot option can be very affordable.
Fiat 500
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Since it was first launched in 1957, the Fiat 500 has been the go-to small car for many Europeans because of its tight proportions and efficiency.
Modern iterations of this little used Fiat are a little different to what we had all those decades ago – they’re safer, more fuel-efficient, larger and quicker.
But it still features the same fundamentals, which are very appealing for new drivers looking for the best car possible.
Toyota Aygo
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Many people turn to a used Toyota when they’re after a reliable car, and the small Aygo is no exception.
If you’re after something fun to drive, practical and built to a very high standard, then the Aygo is a perfect first car for you that won’t break the bank.
Plus, all models come with a surprising amount of tech – which isn’t something you’d necessarily associate with a budget city car.
Vauxhall Adam
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One of the more fashionable cars on this list is the Vauxhall Adam because it’s available with a colourful and quirky interior and has exterior looks that would impress even the best-dressed fashionista.
If you don’t believe us, then you may do when you discover the trim levels are: Energised; Glam; Jam; and Rocks.
So, if you’re someone out to impress as you enter the UK’s roads for the first time, then a used Vauxhall Adam may just be the best option for you.
Ford Fiesta
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The sensible choice that’s often deemed ‘boring’ (but isn’t) is the Ford Fiesta. This is the obvious first car because of its reliability, price point, looks, practicality and fuel efficiency.
MPG is a big talking point for new drivers, because who wants to spend all their time and money at the fuel station?
Well, thankfully the Ford Fiesta can achieve up to 52mpg, which is very impressive for this little car.
What’s even better is that you can get the ST-Line, which makes it look like you have the sporty model, but you’re actually saving money on your car insurance.
You can save even more money by opting for a used Ford model.
SEAT Ibiza
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Whether you’re a huge Vengaboys fan or you’re just looking for a good time, the SEAT Ibiza is a surefire way to spice up your first car choices.
As this is bigger than some of the other cars on your list, a used SEAT Ibiza would make a great first car for someone who may do the occasional longer motorway journey, thanks to its larger engine and increased practicality.
Plus, because it shares so much with the more expensive Volkswagen Polo, you’re essentially getting a cheaper version of that.
Hyundai i10
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A car that has increased in popularity in recent years is the small Hyundai i10.
This is a car that, despite its size, is very capable and would make a fantastic first car for someone not wishing to break the bank.
This used Hyundai even has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, which is very impressive for a car as affordable and as small as this.