Congratulations! You’ve passed your driving test and are ready to hit the road. But before you start planning those long drives and newfound independence, there’s an important decision ahead—choosing your first car. For many newly qualified drivers, this is a major milestone, but it can also be a daunting task. Navigating the world of makes, models, and insurance quotes isn’t easy, especially when you’re balancing cost, safety, and reliability.

At Surrey Driving Force, we’ve seen countless new drivers face this exact decision. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide packed with top tips on selecting the perfect first car.

1. Set a Realistic Budget

The first step to buying your first car is understanding how much you can afford to spend. Remember, the costs go beyond just the price of the car itself. You’ll also need to budget for insurance, road tax, fuel, maintenance, and MOT tests.

  • Initial Purchase Cost: Consider whether you’ll buy new or used. While new cars might seem appealing, a decent used car can cost significantly less and still serve you well.
  • Running Costs: Take into account the ongoing costs of owning a car, including fuel consumption, servicing, and road tax.
  • Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums can be a major expense for newly qualified drivers, so find a car with a low insurance group rating to keep costs down.

Top Tip: Before falling in love with a particular car, get an insurance quote to see if it’s affordable.

2. Choose a Car with a Low Insurance Group

Your car’s insurance group can greatly influence how much you’ll pay for cover. Cars are categorised into insurance groups from 1 to 50, with group 1 being the cheapest to insure. Newly qualified drivers are generally advised to stick to vehicles in groups 1–3.

Popular low-insurance cars for new drivers include models like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Hyundai i10. These vehicles are compact, safe, and reliable—making them excellent choices for first-time car owners.

Top Tip: Always disclose your full driving history to your insurer, including any penalty points or incidents, to avoid voiding your cover.

3. Consider Safety Features

Safety should be one of your top priorities when choosing your first car. Look for models that have high safety ratings and modern features such as airbags, ABS (anti-lock braking system), and stability control.

Some newer models also come with advanced driver-assistance technologies, including parking sensors, collision warnings, and lane-keeping assistance. While these aren’t strictly necessary, they can provide extra reassurance when you’re just starting out.

Top Tip: Check the EURO NCAP safety rating for any car you’re interested in. This gives a clear picture of how well the car performs in crash tests.

4. Think About Fuel Efficiency

Fuel costs can quickly add up, especially if you plan on doing a lot of driving. Opting for a fuel-efficient car will not only save you money at the pump but also reduce your carbon footprint.

For newly qualified drivers, a small car with a petrol or hybrid engine is often a great choice. These cars tend to have better fuel economy and lower emissions than larger, more powerful vehicles.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to check the miles per gallon (MPG) figure for any car you’re considering. The higher the MPG, the less you’ll spend on fuel.

5. Test Drive Before You Buy

Taking a car for a test drive is essential before making your purchase. This not only allows you to check that the car is comfortable to drive but also helps you spot potential issues.

During the test drive, pay attention to the car’s handling, braking, and overall driving feel. Does the steering feel smooth? Is the clutch easy to use? Are there any unusual noises coming from the engine?

Top Tip: If you’re buying a used car, take someone knowledgeable with you to spot any mechanical problems you might miss.

6. Opt for Low Maintenance Requirements

Some cars cost more to maintain than others. Before committing to a particular model, research typical servicing costs, replacement parts, and the car’s reliability record.

Brands like Toyota, Honda, and Ford are often praised for their reliability and lower maintenance costs. Avoid luxury or sports models, which usually come with higher repair bills and costlier parts.

Top Tip: Check the car’s service history (if buying used) to ensure it’s been well cared for by its previous owner.

7. Check Road Tax Costs

Road tax, or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), is another cost you’ll need to factor in. Road tax is calculated based on your car’s CO2 emissions, so lower-emission vehicles are cheaper to tax—or even exempt.

Top Tip: Use the DVLA’s vehicle tax checker to find out the road tax band for specific cars before buying.

8. Think Practically About Your Needs

Consider how you plan to use the car. Will it mainly be for short commutes, weekend road trips, or running errands? This will influence the size, type, and features of the car you choose.

For instance, if you live in a city, a smaller car like a Fiat 500 or Toyota Aygo might be more practical for parking and navigating narrow streets. On the other hand, if you need extra space for passengers or belongings, a compact hatchback like a Vauxhall Corsa would be ideal.

Top Tip: While it’s tempting to go for something stylish, prioritise practicality over aesthetics for your first car.

9. Shop Around for the Best Deals

Don’t rush into buying the first car you see. Take your time to shop around, compare prices, and negotiate with sellers. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, always ensure you’re getting good value for your money.

Top Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, websites like Autotrader, Cargurus, or Motors.co.uk can be excellent resources for comparing prices.

10. Know Your Legal Responsibilities

Finally, make sure you’re aware of all your legal obligations as a car owner. This includes ensuring the car has valid insurance, road tax, and an up-to-date MOT (if the vehicle is over 3 years old).

Driving an uninsured or untaxed car can result in fines, penalty points, or even the car being impounded. Don’t risk it—always double-check that everything’s in order before you drive away.

Finding the Right First Car with Confidence

Choosing your first car is an exciting experience, but it’s also a big responsibility. By following these tips and considering your options carefully, you’ll be well on your way to finding a car that suits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

At Surrey Driving Force, we understand that choosing your first car can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. With expert driving lessons and advice tailored to your needs, we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared for life on the road.

For more helpful tips and advice, visit our website or contact us directly. Here’s to safe and happy driving!