The Best Cars for a First-Time Driver

For the first-time driver, selecting the right car can be a difficult decision. While there may be a temptation to choose an older sports model or a larger, more powerful car, such as an SUV, this fails to take into account more important practicalities. Of these, cost, reliability, and—most significantly—safety are among the main considerations that need to be taken into account. Our team at Sheehy Nissan of Glen Burnie has details on other factors, as well.

Cost and reliability

It is true that the cost of purchasing an older car will be less than newer models, and this is especially the case with powerful sports cars, larger sedans, and SUVs. However, there are other costs that will add to the initial investment.

Insurance is the first element of added cost. Car insurance is based upon a number of factors. These include driver age, experience, and statistical data related to the likelihood of their being involved in accidents and causing injury to others. Due to lack of experience, the first-time driver represents a higher risk. This risk, which increases with more powerful and larger cars, is reflected in increased insurance premiums.

The second cost is related to maintenance and reliability. Larger and more powerful cars lose resale value much faster than more popular small and mid-range cars. Equally, sports and larger cars attract higher running costs than small and medium models, due to the increased price of replacement parts. Furthermore, due to increased wear and tear, maintenance costs will be higher with older cars. Therefore, as noted in an article by Cars.com, “if an inexpensive older car breaks down frequently, it's not really an inexpensive car.”

Safety

Safety is not only important to protect the new driver from harm, but also to protect passengers and other road users. Smaller sports cars can increase the temptation to speed and offer less crash protection. SUVs also have a tendency to increase aggressive and overconfident driving, and at the same time are more prone to rollover. Moreover, older cars are less likely to have safety features, such as ABS braking, traction and stability control, and airbag protection.

The most practical and sensible choice of car

Based upon the above overview, the best car for a first-time driver is likely to be a small- or medium-range sedan no older than five years. Although the initial price may be higher, insurance costs will be lower because these models attract a lower risk element. Maintenance costs are also likely to be lower, mainly because the cost of parts will be less and in some cases the car is likely to have a remaining warranty period, as Cars.com states. In addition, because of their popularity, small and medium sedans tend to lose less value.

Regarding safety, cars within these groups and age range are more likely to have enhanced safety technology. These include stability control and ABS braking systems, which reduce the likelihood of skidding and loss of control, as well as internal airbags that provide greater protection for occupants. These systems are important for new drivers as they develop their driving and vehicle handling skills.

Summary

First-time drivers will do well with a reliable, cost-efficient car that requires low maintenance and includes as many safety features as possible. The small or medium sedan aged five years or less comes with these attributes, making them the best cars for a first time driver.