Passing your driving test is a landmark moment. It’s your ticket to independence, freedom, and all the open roads ahead. But before you can hit the tarmac, there’s an important decision waiting—picking your first car.
For new drivers, balancing affordability, safety, and reliability is key. You’ll want a car that suits your needs, keeps costs manageable, and supports your confidence on the road. That’s where our ultimate checklist comes in. At Surrey Driving Force, we’re dedicated to making the transition from learner to full-time driver as seamless as possible.
Read on for a comprehensive checklist to guide you towards choosing an affordable and safe first car that ticks all the right boxes.
1. Set Your Budget
The first step in buying any car is understanding how much you can comfortably spend. Your costs will include more than just the price of the vehicle itself—you’ll also need to consider insurance, road tax, fuel, and maintenance.
- Purchase Price – Decide if you’ll buy a new or second-hand car. Used cars often offer tremendous value for money without sacrificing quality, especially if you choose wisely.
- Insurance Costs – Find out how much it will cost to insure the car, as this can skyrocket for new drivers.
- Running Costs – Budget for fuel, repairs, servicing, and MOT inspections.
Top Tip: Always leave some financial wiggle room for unexpected expenses like breakdowns or replacement tyres.
2. Understand Insurance Groups
Insurance premiums can be daunting for newly qualified drivers who lack a no-claims history. Luckily, insurance groups help determine which cars are cheapest to insure. Groups range from 1 to 50, with group 1 being the easiest on your wallet.
Some excellent low-insurance vehicles for first-time drivers include the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai i10. These compact models are economical, reliable, and widely praised for their practicality.
Top Tip: Use a comparison site like GoCompare to check insurance quotes before settling on a car model.
3. Prioritise Safety Features
Safety is one of the most important factors for new drivers. Not only will this protect you in the event of an accident, but it can also lower your insurance premium. Look for cars with a high EURO NCAP safety rating and modern safety features, such as:
- Airbags
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- Stability Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
Remember, even smaller, affordable vehicles can be packed with safety innovations. Seatbelts save lives, of course, but airbags and newer technology can make an even bigger difference.
Top Tip: Check the NCAP website to research any vehicle you’re considering—it’s the gold standard for safety ratings.
4. Choose a Reliable Brand
Some cars are known for their dependability, while others have a reputation for frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. When searching for your first car, it pays to stick with brands celebrated for their reliability.
Good options for first-time car owners include Toyota, Honda, and Ford, whose reputation for robust engineering is well-earned. These manufacturers also tend to offer affordable replacement parts and maintenance services.
Top Tip: When buying a used car, always check its service history to ensure it’s been well-maintained by previous owners.
5. Think About Fuel Efficiency
Choosing a fuel-efficient car is not only good for your wallet but also for the environment. Smaller vehicles with modest engines tend to have the best fuel economy, giving you more miles for your money.
- Petrol Cars – A practical choice for shorter distances and city driving.
- Diesel Cars – Often more economical for long-distance driving, though new emissions regulations have made these vehicles less appealing.
- Hybrid or Electric Cars – While their upfront cost can be higher, they offer incredible fuel savings and are exempt from some charges, like ULEZ fees (Ultra Low Emission Zone).
Top Tip: When comparing cars, look at the MPG (miles per gallon) figure. The higher it is, the less you’ll spend on fuel.
6. Size and Practicality
Your first car doesn’t need to be flashy—it should make your driving experience comfortable, manageable, and enjoyable. For this reason, smaller cars are usually ideal for new drivers, especially in urban areas.
- City Cars – Compact models such as the Fiat 500 are perfect for weaving through traffic and parking in tight spaces.
- Hatchbacks – Slightly larger vehicles like the Vauxhall Corsa offer extra boot and seating space, which can be useful for carrying passengers or luggage.
Top Tip: Take a moment to think about your everyday needs. Will you need space for shopping runs, family members, or sports equipment? Choose a car that fits your lifestyle.
7. Take It for a Test Drive
You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without trying them on—and the same logic applies to cars. Always take a test drive before committing to a purchase.
Pay special attention to the following during your test drive:
- Is it easy to handle?
- Are the pedals responsive?
- Is the car comfortable to sit in, with good visibility?
- Do you notice any rattling sounds or strange vibrations?
Top Tip: Test the car over different types of roads to get a more accurate sense of how it performs.
8. Consider Road Tax and Other Hidden Costs
Road tax (known officially as Vehicle Excise Duty or VED) is determined by your vehicle’s CO2 emissions. Smaller, efficient petrol cars or hybrids often fall into lower tax brackets than larger, more powerful vehicles.
Top Tip: Use the DVLA’s online tax checker to calculate the road tax cost for any car you’re eyeing.
9. Buy from a Trusted Seller
Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, trust and transparency are key. Here’s how to ensure a smooth, stress-free transaction:
- Ask for All Documentation – Any reputable seller should have the V5C logbook, service history, and MOT certificate.
- Check for Outstanding Finance – Use the HPI Check to confirm the car has no outstanding loans or debts.
- Inspect the Vehicle – Look under the bonnet, check the tyres, and examine the car for dents, scratches, or other signs of wear.
Top Tip: If you’re unsure about what to look for, bring along a friend or family member who knows their way around cars.
Making the Right Choice for Your First Car
Picking your first car is a significant moment—it’s not only your introduction to car ownership but also the foundation upon which your driving confidence will grow. By following this checklist, you’ll find a car that’s affordable, practical, and ideally suited to your needs as a newly qualified driver.
At Surrey Driving Force, we’re committed to supporting new drivers on every step of their journey. Whether it’s perfecting those parking skills or staying safe on motorways, our driving lessons are designed to prepare you for life behind the wheel.
To learn more about driving tips or to book a lesson, visit our website. Your driving adventure starts here—stay safe, and happy motoring!
