Are you getting ready to buy your first car? Congratulations!
There’s something about sitting behind the steering wheel of a car that belongs to you that invokes feelings of freedom. Of course, the joy that comes with owning a new car is only available if you make the right purchase. If you buy a vehicle that doesn’t fit your driving style or budget, you could wind up in financial trouble.
To help make things easy, we’ve created this short guide all about good first cars. What type of car features should new drivers look for? What auto manufacturers can offer the best safety? Read on to find out.
Safety Features for Good First Cars
Car crashes are the leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 16-25. That’s why good first cars will have the latest safety features.
Both luxury and moderately priced vehicles have high-end safety features. Some of the high-tech safety features are even mandatory for new cars.
One of the most essential features is the automatic braking system. Automatic braking systems will help slow your car down if a collision is imminent. It’s one of the best safety features for new drivers who aren’t used to traffic flow yet.
You should also look for vehicles that have blind-spot monitoring. The blind-spot monitoring system can use video data or a unique radar system. If your car gets too close to an object, you’ll receive an alert.
The blind-spot monitoring alert can provide visual cues or beeping sounds. For more advanced cars, your vehicle will even be able to move itself to a safe distance.
Another safety feature we suggest looking out for is the rear cross-traffic warning. You’ll have an added layer to your standard backup camera setup.
You’ll know about it if there’s anything behind your vehicle while you’re trying to back up. The rear cross-traffic warning feature can do wonders for new drivers afraid of fender benders. Many of the safety features we’re listing here only apply to new vehicles, not used ones.
Should You Buy Your First Car Used or New?
When you buy your first car, should it be new or used? The answer is going to vary depending on your life situation.
Choosing between a new and used vehicle can be a difficult choice. Even though used cars are cheaper, there are many excellent financing options for new ones.
When deciding between used and new, it can help to write out the pros and cons. One of the pros of a used vehicle is that you’ll pay less upfront, and you can negotiate the price. As long as the used vehicle is less than 5 years old, you’ll still be getting a high-quality car.
On the downside, purchasing a used car means that you won’t get to pick out the special features you’d like your vehicle to have. It can be fun picking out your new car’s color and stereo system as a new car owner.
What else should you consider when purchasing a new car? The best advantage of getting a new car is that you’ll be able to enjoy a full manufacturer’s warranty. You won’t have to deal with wear and tear from other owners, and you can choose customized features.
As long as you find a reputable lending company, you’ll be able to secure interest rates that make sense. Probably one of the biggest advantages is having the final say in how your car looks and feels.
You’ll be able to pick exactly how you’re entertainment system, paint, and spec level look. New cars also provide some of the best safety features, such as driver assist.
Choosing a Demonstrator Vehicle
If you’d like to pay a used car price for a new vehicle, look for demonstrator vehicles. Demonstrator vehicles are the cars that dealerships use for test drives.
While these cars are technically used, they’ve never had an official owner. Demonstrator vehicles can provide a budget-friendly choice for young drivers.
Once you decide whether you want to purchase a used or new vehicle, you can start searching the dealership inventory. Be sure to go to a reputable dealer with a reputation for exceeding customer expectations.
Once you’re on the car lot, it’s good to test drive several vehicles before making your choice. What car should you test drive first? The Chevrolet Spark is a great car to start off with.
Chevrolet Spark
Would you like to purchase a new car that costs less than $15,000? The 2022 Chevrolet Chevy Spark can help you do just that. With a superior interior and easy handling, the Chevy Spark will delight you.
Every model is also offered with manual drive options to choose how you move. Even though the Chevy Spark has a low price, that doesn’t mean that it’s low quality.
Since 2017, Chevrolet has been releasing different versions of Spark. The 2017 Chevy spark has a 15-inch wheel design and a unique-looking grill. You’ll also be able to enjoy fog lamps, contrasting cladding, roof rails, and rocker moldings.
Fast-forwarding 3 years, the 2020 Chevy Spark offers some of the latest security features. You’ll also enjoy a 4 cylinder engine that provides for continuously variable automatic transition. You’ll also have plenty of room to move around since the cabin has ample headroom and spacious seats.
As far as fuel economy is concerned, you’ll find that the Spark is fairly fuel-efficient. You can use an online fuel calculator to see just how much the Spark will save you on gas.
The car can handle the power well without producing a lot of engine noise. As far as the steering is concerned, all Spark models offer easy handling. Be prepared to experience relaxed highway speeds and easy lane changes.
Volkswagen Passat
New drivers looking for a midsize car should consider getting a Volkswagen Passat. As long as you buy a model from the last 5 years, you’ll be able to enjoy high-end driving features.
Volkswagen Passat presents drivers with lots of cargo room so you can enjoy a comfortable ride. As far as fuel efficiency goes, you can expect to get around 24 miles to the gallon in city driving and 36 miles to the gallon in highway driving.
The comfort-tuned suspension means that things stay smooth no matter how bumpy the road gets. If you’re unsure what year model to get, we suggest choosing between the 2021 and 2022 options.
The 2022 Passat is the last year of Volkswagen. Instead of using the base s trim that the 2021 model uses, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique SE trim.
Volkswagen also has special limited edition trims available, but they will cost more. The 2021 model provides drivers with a leather wrap steering wheel and adaptive cruise control.
Both models feature a 174-horsepower turbocharged engine. You’ll also be able to enjoy a six-speed automatic.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Now beginning drivers can experience new car thrills without breaking the bank! The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an affordable sports car with a convertible top. Featuring a fun four-cylinder engine, you’ll be able to satisfy all of your car cravings. You’ll even have the option between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
New drivers will find that the Miata is easy to handle, and it’s great for taking on long road trips. The manual folding convertible soft top is slightly more pricey than the hardtop model, but it’s well worth the price.
Whatever convertible roof you decide to get, you’ll find that the Miata’s interior is tight. This will not be a car for tall individuals or anyone wanting to transport a lot of friends. Instead, the Miata is more for the single driver who wants to enjoy the latest infotainment features.
The car includes Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and more. You might be wondering why we list sports cars for new drivers. The answer lies in Miata’s kinematic posture control.
Helping drivers sit properly, the Miata manufacturer’s found a new way to increase safety. The sports car offers a safe ride by reducing body roll and improving stability. Plus, it’s a ton of fun to get behind the wheel!
Any Tesla Model
Ecoconscious new drivers should look into getting a Tesla. The latest 2022 Tesla model 3 provides an electric vehicle that surpasses all of your expectations. The performance trim is incredible to look at, and the car handles with ease.
Offering an impressive driving range of over 300 miles per charge, you’ll be able to save a ton on gas. Along with an attractive entry price, the Tesla Model 3 has updated features. For instance, Tesla electric vehicles now use a new battery pack comprised of lithium-ion phosphate batteries.
The new battery allows for a more extended driving range, and it’s more eco-friendly. As with most electric vehicles, the model 3 will be able to slowly build speed. You’ll silently start zooming down the road with your robust electric motor driving you.
The Tesla 3 can go incredibly fast, reaching speeds of 60 mph in under 6 seconds. Since the battery lies under the floor, this car has a low center of gravity.
New drivers will be able to easily change direction while still feeling they’re stable on every corner. The well-weighted and accurate steering comes with 3 adjustable settings.
The rest of the interior is pretty simple since everything is controlled by a touch screen at the dashboard’s center. The interior also features a flat floor to enjoy a spacious cabin with plenty of room.
Toyota Camry Options
If you’re looking for a mid-sized car that stands apart from other vehicles, look no further than the Toyota Camry. Notably, the 2021 Toyota Camry could be precisely what you’re searching for.
Countless drivers have already chosen to make the Camry their first vehicle of choice, thanks to its wide range of features and fashionable style. The new Camry has a captivating style that will get all the suitable types of attention.
The color schemes available create Camry’s with a commanding presence. The car is contrasted by an intense metallic front grille featuring a sleek body design and thoughtfully placed chrome accents.
You’ll be able to enjoy the same thoughtful design when you’re sitting behind the steering wheel. The Camry’s cabin is both comfortable and spacious.
The intelligent, ergonomically designed controls are easy to reach. The 2021 Camry even takes advantage of hybrid technology so you can enjoy better fuel efficiency. When you combine that with the all-wheel-drive system, you have a car that can get new drivers to where they’re going no matter what the road conditions are like.
New drivers will enjoy navigating the Camry with the intuitive touch screen. Instead of fiddling with the complex interface, new drivers will be able to quickly focus on the road ahead. Maintaining focus is one of the vital safety tips new drivers should follow.
Toyota Camry Safety and Customization
We have a little more to say about buying a Camry as your first vehicle. The 2021 Toyota Camry offers a pre-collision system.
The pre-collision system can help slow your car down to prevent an accident. The emergency brakes will activate to avoid a collision altogether in certain situations.
Another example of Toyota’s high-end safety features is the road sign assist system. The road sign assist system can automatically detect your speed so that you don’t get a ticket.
Thanks to all of the different colors and models to choose from, new drivers will be able to pick a car that matches their personality. The customization goes to a whole new level when you delve into the different appearance packages offered with the Camry SE Nightshade Edition.
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is one of the most comfortable cars for new drivers to choose from. The affordable price tag also makes the Nissan Versa a prime choice for young drivers. You’ll be able to enjoy a super smooth ride that is stylish too!
The engine transmission and performance go, the 2022 Nissan Versa offers a 122 horsepower 4-cylinder engine. There’s also a five-speed manual as the default transmission for base models. However, you can also look for a continuously variable automatic transition option.
The Versa will feel a little bit slow as it’s pulling away from stoplights. However, you’ll find that it picks up speed with ease and handles quite well.
The Versa can provide 32 miles per gallon for city driving and 40 miles per gallon on the highway. Suppose you decide to get the mid-level SV model. In that case, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most desirable features, such as a digital screen and mounted armrests.
The mid-level SV model includes passive hands-free entry, automatic climate control, and remote start. You’ll find that the back seat can easily fit 2 adults, so it’s the perfect car for driving your friends around.
Hyundai Accent
The Hyundai Accent is another affordable car for new drivers. Even though this car is cheap to purchase, it’s not cheap in quality. You’ll be able to enjoy high-end styling, easy handling, and a simplistic interior design.
While the interior isn’t exciting, it’s incredibly functional. The 2022 Hyundai Accent even has some fun modern luxuries included. Modern luxuries such as heated seats, infotainment touch screens, push-button starts, etc.
No matter what trim you choose, you’ll find that the Accent has a mature look. No one is going to accuse you of being a penny pincher.
With 120 horsepower for your 1.6 l 4-cylinder engine, you’ll be able to quickly zip down the road. If you’re unsure what horsepower is, this guide helps break it down. Basically, the Accent has a lively feel, and it’s great for handling tight corners.
If you plan on driving the car down rough roads, the car suspension will keep things nice and even. You’ll also be able to enjoy some of the best fuel economy numbers. The new 2022 model can get 36 miles per gallon.
Chevrolet Tahoe
So far, many of the vehicles on this list have been mid-sized or compact cars. But what about new drivers who want something more significant, like a new truck or SUV? If you want a large cabin and a safe vehicle, look no further than the Chevrolet Tahoe.
The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is our top choice for new drivers. The vehicle is more prominent outside, but the interior cargo is also more oversized.
Along with an extra spacious cabin, you’ll be able to enjoy 2 powerful V8 engines. There are many driver assistance options and fun infotainment features for long rides.
The updated exterior and interior were designed with the customer in mind. Typically Tahoe owners enjoy taking long road trips, and they want their friends to be able to come with them. That’s why these vehicles are so spacious.
You won’t have to worry about spending too much as you travel across the country since your Tahoe can get 28 miles per gallon during highway driving. You can expect to get 21 miles per gallon if you’re driving through the city.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Instead of a road-worn Wrangler, new drivers should invest in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Providing extensive off-road capability and on-road refinement, you’ll be able to have the best of both worlds.
The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee still features the fun, outdoorsy look that cheap buyers are accustomed to. Along with the trio of powertrains, these cars come with V6 and V8 options.
The rear-wheel-drive is standard for most models that have the V6 engine. The 2022 model year also features a two-row body style with this updated architecture. You’ll be able to enjoy the best blend of features, including luxury and safety equipment.
As far as luxury goes, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a leather interior and a power-operated liftgate in the rear. You’ll also have heated seats for both the front and the back. All of the seats in the show are power-adjustable, and the cabin includes ambient lighting.
Thanks to the automatic high beam headlamps and remote start, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most modern rides. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets 26 miles per gallon on the highway as far as fuel economy is concerned.
If you choose to get the plug-in hybrid model, you’ll have the better fuel economy. The hybrid model features a 14 KW battery pack and a 134-horsepower electric motor. The Grand Cherokee will be able to cruise as far as 25 miles per charge.
Ford Escape
Last but certainly not least, on our list of cars for new drivers, we have the Ford Escape. The 2020 Ford Escape is the perfect vehicle for teen drivers. Thanks to the 5 different trim choices, you can customize your ride.
Drivers will be able to drive a blend of power and performance like none other. The 1.5 l engine produces 181 horsepower along with 190 lb-feet of torque.
If you choose to get the turbo charge 2.0 l engine, you’ll have 250 horsepower and 280 lb-feet of torque. The Ford Escape has a fast response time and drives smoothly. New drivers will enjoy the easy handling that assists with maneuverability.
Acceleration is fast, but not too fast. Drivers can go from 0 to 60 in under 10 seconds. Typically it takes 7.7 seconds to reach 60 mph.
The speed will be slightly faster if you’re getting the 2.0 l engine, coming in at 5.7 seconds. Teen drivers will also enjoy advanced safety features such as the Ford co-pilot 360.
Safety features include a lane-keeping system and high beam headlamps with automation. There’s even a rearview camera complete with pre-collision assistance.
The pre-collision assist allows for automatic emergency braking and continual road scans. The brakes can automatically apply if the driver doesn’t take corrective action immediately.
Buy Your First Car
Now you know about good first cars for young and new drivers. Whatever car you choose, Carsfast can help you get same-day lending approval.
We’re proud to offer customers the best rates and lowest payments around. We can even help you find out what dealership you should visit for the best deal.
It’s our number one goal to save you money when you buy your first car. Limited credit should never stop you from getting a great ride. Take a moment to apply for a loan to see what you qualify for.