Passing your driving test is an exciting milestone, opening the door to greater freedom and independence. Yet, before you can fully enjoy the benefits of the open road, there’s a crucial decision ahead—choosing your first car. This purchase is a significant commitment that requires careful thought.
A first car is so much more than a mode of transport—it’s your introduction to car ownership, a key tool for building driving confidence, and a major investment. At Surrey Driving Force, we’ve guided countless new drivers along their journeys, and we know exactly what to look for when buying your first car.
To help you make a smart, informed choice, we’ve outlined everything you need to consider when shopping for your first set of wheels.
1. Budget Wisely for the Full Costs of Ownership
Your car-buying budget isn’t just about the purchase price—it’s the overall cost of owning and running a car that counts. Start by determining what you can afford to spend upfront, then factor in ongoing expenses like fuel, maintenance, tax, and insurance.
Consider the following:
- Purchase Cost – Are you looking at a new car or a second-hand option? Used cars tend to be more affordable while still providing great value.
- Insurance Premiums – New drivers often face higher premiums, which can make the total cost of ownership surprising.
- Fuel and Maintenance – Don’t forget regular expenses like filling the tank and servicing your car.
Top Tip: Stick to your budget. It’s tempting to splurge on an eye-catching model, but practicality matters more than luxury at this stage.
2. Check the Insurance Group Rating
Car insurance can heavily influence your overall costs, particularly as a new driver. When choosing your first car, it’s wise to consider vehicles in lower insurance groups.
Insurance groups range from 1 to 50, with cars in group 1 offering the lowest premiums. Popular options for first-time drivers include the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Up, and Hyundai i10. These cars are not only economical to insure but are also easy to drive and maintain.
Top Tip: Shop around for insurance quotes from comparison sites like Confused.com or MoneySuperMarket before committing to a vehicle.
3. Prioritise Safety and Security Features
Your personal safety is paramount, especially as you’re building confidence behind the wheel. Many modern cars are equipped with advanced safety features, some of which may also reduce your insurance costs.
Look out for the following safety features:
- Airbags
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Lane Departure Warning Systems
- Automated Emergency Braking (AEB)
You should also check the car’s EURO NCAP safety rating—the higher the score, the better the car’s performance in crash tests.
Top Tip: Even smaller, more affordable vehicles can boast excellent safety credentials. Always review safety ratings before making a decision.
4. Think About Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Fuel efficiency is a critical factor when choosing your first car. After all, the more miles you can travel on a single tank, the less you’ll spend at the petrol station.
Smaller petrol or hybrid cars tend to be more economical and environmentally friendly, which is ideal for new drivers starting with modest budgets. Electric cars are also worth considering if you’re looking to eliminate fuel costs altogether, although their higher initial price might be less attractive.
Top Tip: Check each vehicle’s MPG (miles per gallon) rating. The higher the figure, the further you’ll get on less fuel.
5. Size and Practicality
When it comes to picking your first car, size matters. While it’s tempting to dream big, compact cars are generally a better fit for new drivers, especially if you’ll primarily be driving in urban areas.
- Small Hatchbacks – Cars like the Vauxhall Corsa or Peugeot 208 are perfect for city driving, offering ease of parking and agile handling.
- Compact SUVs – If additional space or a higher driving position appeals to you, consider models like the Renault Captur.
Top Tip: Stick to vehicles that suit your immediate needs. While a larger car might look appealing, smaller cars can be less intimidating for new drivers and are usually more cost-effective.
6. Test Drive Before You Buy
Never underestimate the value of a test drive when buying your first car. The test drive helps you assess how the car feels and whether it suits your preferences.
Pay attention to these points during your test drive:
- Is the car easy to handle?
- Are the controls intuitive to use?
- Does the seatbelt and seating position feel comfortable?
- Are the brakes and acceleration responsive?
Top Tip: If you lack confidence in spotting mechanical faults, bring someone experienced with you to the test drive.
7. Factor in Maintenance Costs
While your first car doesn’t need to be brand new, it does need to be reliable. Some cars are more affordable to maintain than others, so it’s worth researching repair costs and availability of spare parts.
Brands like Honda, Ford, and Toyota are known for their dependability. When browsing used cars, ask for the service history to ensure the vehicle has been well looked after.
Top Tip: Avoid vehicles that seem overly worn or poorly serviced—they may come with hidden expenses down the road.
8. Understand Road Tax and Legal Responsibilities
Every car in the UK is subject to road tax, or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), which is calculated based on CO2 emissions. Small, efficient cars are usually in lower tax bands or even exempt.
Similarly, ensure the car has a valid MOT (if over three years old) and that you meet all legal requirements before driving off.
Top Tip: Check the DVLA’s online tools to confirm tax and MOT status when considering used cars.
9. Use a Trusted Seller
Whether you choose to buy through a dealership or a private seller, trust and transparency are crucial. Look for reputable dealerships with good reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations.
- Ask for Documentation – Request the V5C logbook, service history, and MOT certificate.
- Run an HPI Check – This ensures the car isn’t stolen, written off, or subject to unpaid finance.
- Inspect the Car – Examine tyres, brakes, and the engine bay to spot signs of wear.
Top Tip: Be wary of “too good to be true” deals, especially if the seller can’t provide proper paperwork.
10. Plan for Your Long-Term Needs
While it’s impossible to predict future circumstances, try to select a car that will serve you well for three or more years. Consider practicality, durability, and how your lifestyle might evolve. Are you likely to need more seating? Will you start commuting longer distances?
Top Tip: If you’re unsure whether a car meets your future needs, seek advice from experienced drivers or a trusted professional at a dealership.
Start Your Driving Adventure with the Right Car
Your first car is an exciting investment, but it’s important to approach the purchase with a clear head and a solid plan. By considering your budget, prioritising safety, and choosing a reliable model, you’ll set yourself up for success on the road.
At Surrey Driving Force, we’ve worked with many new drivers and understand the challenges of picking that perfect car. Whether it’s building your driving skills or offering advice on car ownership, we’re here to help.
For more driving tips and resources, visit our website or get in touch today. Safe driving, and enjoy the ride!
