Embarking on your driving journey? Congratulations! The open road awaits, but the first step is finding the perfect car to accompany you. We've got you covered with a list of the best cars for first-time drivers, spanning continents, and offering options that suit your style and budget.
Ford Fiesta
This compact car combines affordability and efficiency, making it a popular choice for beginners and many drivers around the world. One of its other main characteristics is that it is easy and cheap to maintain - the main reason being that it is made here in the US, and all its parts are widely available all across the country.
Specs:
- Engine: 1.6L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 120 hp
- MPG: Up to 27 city / 35 highway
Chevrolet Malibu
If you need a bit more space and comfort, the Malibu offers exactly that - it is a mid-sized sedan that can rival crowd favorites like the Corolla. There are different trim levels, with the "L" being the lowest and the "Premier" as the most luxurious.
Specs:
- Engine: 1.5L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 160 hp
- MPG: Up to 29 city / 36 highway
Volkswagen Golf
The Golf's iconic design, precise handling, and well-crafted interior make it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate European flair. It strikes a balance between sportiness and practicality as most German cars - and with its country of origin comes extreme reliability, perfect for new drivers.
Specs:
- Engine: 1.4L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 147 hp
- MPG: Up to 29 city / 39 highway
Mini Cooper
The Mini Cooper is a statement of style and fun. Its compact size is perfect for urban driving, and its peppy engine will put a smile on your face. But let's not forget that it is a part of the BMW family, and it has a few trim levels, like the "Iconic" and "Countryman" - both are worth checking out!
Specs:
- Engine: 1.5L 3-cylinder
- Horsepower: 134 hp
- MPG: Up to 28 city / 36 highway
Kia Forte
Kia's Forte is known for its value for money. It offers a comfortable ride, modern tech features, and excellent fuel economy, making it a smart choice for new drivers. Surprisingly, one of its downsides is the engine, not that it isn't reliable, but it is just too small for a sedan.
Specs:
- Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 147 hp
- MPG: Up to 31 city / 41 highway
Toyota Corolla
The Corolla is synonymous with reliability - when someone is talking about a Toyota, they are most likely using the word "reliable" in the same sentence. It boasts a reputation for longevity, and its fuel efficiency means fewer stops at the pump. An added bonus is that it has a lot of trims, including excellent hybrids, making it that much better.
Specs:
- Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 139 hp
- MPG: Up to 30 city / 38 highway
Does your vehicle need a few overdue maintenance procedures or repairs? Complete Car Care Encinitas is here to help - it is as simple as booking an appointment and leaving the rest to us!