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The Best Cars for New Drivers: Your Ultimate Guide

The Best Cars for New Drivers: Your Ultimate Guide

Sofie Gelfenbein
by 
Sofie Gelfenbein
4 minutes read
Trends in Travel & Mobility
ሰኔ 29, 2025

Finding the right vehicle when you’re a new driver can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily, the **best cars for new drivers** offer a combination of reliability, affordability, and ease of handling, making the driving experience enjoyable and stress-free. In this article, we’ll delve into the top vehicle choices that cater to young drivers and beginner enthusiasts, ensuring you enjoy your time on the road.

Why Choosing the Right Car Matters

For new drivers, selecting the right car is crucial. Not only does it impact your confidence behind the wheel, but it also affects safety and overall driving experience. With so many options available, here are a few things to consider:

  • Simplified Controls: Cars that feature straightforward controls help enhance the learning experience.
  • Reliability: The best new cars tend to have solid reputations for dependability.
  • Safety Ratings: Look for models with high safety ratings from trusted organizations, including Consumer Reports.

With services like GetRentacar, you can even explore various models before committing to your purchase, allowing you to see firsthand which vehicles meet your preferences as a new driver.

Top 5 Best Cars for New Drivers

1. Honda Civic (2018-2022)

The Honda Civic has long been a favorite among new drivers. This compact car offers excellent fuel efficiency, reliability, and features that make it easy to handle. The 2.0-liter engine provides a sufficient blend of power while ensuring you save on gas. Known for its safety ratings, the Civic is built to keep young drivers secure. The latest models have advanced safety tech and a spacious interior, making it one of the best cars for new drivers.

2. Toyota Corolla (2019-2022)

Another solid choice is the Toyota Corolla. It combines affordability with reliability. The Corolla, featuring a 1.8-liter engine, provides ample power for city driving while remaining fuel-efficient. The comfortable interior and large trunk space offer added convenience for everyday use or road trips. Backed by impressive safety ratings from Consumer Reports, it’s considered a top contender among the best new cars for new drivers.

3. Ford Fiesta (2018-2021)

The Ford Fiesta is often hailed as a good first car for its compact size and agile performance. Equipped with a 1.6-liter engine, it’s peppy yet easy to manage. Its smaller dimensions make it perfect for maneuvering city streets, while its reliability ensures peace of mind for new drivers. The Fiesta offers various tech features, making navigation straightforward. This vehicle ticks all the boxes in the category of best cars for new drivers.

4. Hyundai Elantra (2019-2022)

The Hyundai Elantra is another excellent option for new drivers. With an attractive design and robust safety features, it delivers both style and security. The 2.0-liter engine ensures adequate performance, while the spacious interior makes longer trips comfortable. Plus, it comes equipped with many modern tech features at an affordable price point, making it one of the best cars for new drivers on the market.

5. Kia Soul (2020-2022)

Last but not least, the Kia Soul stands out due to its unique design and functionality. Featuring a 2.0-liter engine, it’s perfect for city driving and offers ample room for passengers and cargo. The Soul is equipped with various safety features, making it an excellent choice to keep young drivers secure on the road. Its quirky style and user-friendly interface enhance its appeal, making it one of the best new cars for new drivers.

Things to Consider When Buying Your First Car

When you’re ready to buy your first vehicle, consider the following essential points:

  • Budget: Establish how much you’re willing to spend. Remember, cars come with various costs like insurance, maintenance, and fuel.
  • Insurance: Since young drivers often face higher premiums, research vehicles that are cheaper to insure.
  • Used vs. New: While new cars have the latest features, good used cars can provide exceptional value. Think about buying used if your budget is tight.

Utilizing GetRentacar for a Stress-Free Experience

Discovering cars suited for new drivers becomes easy with services like GetRentacar. You can find various models from local car owners and experience their features first-hand. With a vast selection, you can create a list of the best cars for new drivers to help simplify your decision process. It’s informative to rent different models before committing to a purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car as a new driver sets the foundation for a successful driving future. From the dependable Honda Civic to the versatile Kia Soul, the best cars for new drivers ensure that you can learn and grow behind the wheel with confidence. Remember to consider all factors, such as safety ratings and ease of handling, to ensure you make the right choice. Start your journey today with GetRentacar by renting before you buy, allowing you to ensure you find the perfect vehicle tailored to your needs.