Our Top Used Car Picks for First Time Drivers

Embarking on the journey of becoming a driver is an exhilarating experience, and choosing the right car is a crucial step in this adventure. Whether you're a fresh-faced 17-year-old or a new driver under 25, Pavilion Car Sales has curated a list of top picks for first-time car buyers. Our family-run dealership, with main sites in Brighton and a secondary site in Crawley, takes pride in offering AA-approved, award-winning used cars that cater to both budget and safety concerns. Let's explore some fantastic options to kickstart your driving journey.

1. Toyota Aygo! - Nimble and Efficient: The Toyota Aygo is a stellar choice for new drivers when it comes to buying a used car. Its compact design makes it easy to navigate through city streets, and the 1.0-litre engine provides ample power for those starting out. With low annual tax rates, excellent fuel economy, and sitting in very low insurance groups, the up! offers an affordable and stylish entry into the world of driving. We love the Aygo and think it is one of the best options for a first time drivers as we find they prove to live up to the well-established reputation of reliability Toyota has built. As a bonus, we find that they have great re-sale value.

2. Ford Fiesta - Timeless Favorite in the used car market: Despite ceasing production, the Ford Fiesta remains a popular choice among first-time drivers. Its popularity means there's a plethora of used Fiestas on the market as it’s been one of the top selling cars in the UK for over a decade now. Known for its nimble handling and compact size, the Fiesta is ideal for both urban and highway driving. Plus, with advanced technology features on its newer models, including Bluetooth connectivity and optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it ensures a modern driving experience. You can’t go wrong with a fiesta, its proven the test of time and it’s always been a popular choice.

3. Toyota Yaris - Budget-Friendly and Dependable Second-Hand Car: The Toyota Yaris stands out as one of the most reliable cars on the market. With lots of engine options to choose from ranging from hybrid to petrol’s and automatic cars to manual cars. They are cheap to run and insure, the Yaris is a practical choice for those looking for a, budget-friendly option with dependable performance. The Toyota Yaris hybrids are a great entry way to the electric and hybrid car market as they have proven to be relatively reliable, very economical and have strong automatic gearboxes making them and ideal first car.

4. VW Golf – Practical & Spacious Comfort: The VW Golf impresses with practicality, space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for new drivers. Its simple controls and solid interior finish contribute to an easy and enjoyable driving experience. The golf is one of our best selling cars and it offers a reliable option with relatively low running costs depending on the model you go for. Overall, this is one of our personal favourite cars as it offers you a great overall package of space, design, build quality, reliability and price. Although it is important to note that these will cost a bit more than some of the other options on this list, we think that they still provide great value for what your getting.

5. Hyundai i10 - Compact and Economical: City cars are a fantastic choice for new drivers, and the Hyundai i10 excels in this category. With its compact dimensions and light controls, it's easy to maneuver, making it an ideal car for urban driving. The i10's economical petrol engines, coupled with low insurance group ratings, ensure an affordable ownership experience. If you need a bit more space you could always look at the I20 which shares a lot of the same attributes.

At Pavilion Car Sales, we understand that your first car is more than just a mode of transportation; it's a symbol of independence and freedom. Explore our top picks for the best first time used cars, and visit our main site in Brighton or secondary site in Crawley to find the perfect used vehicle to accompany you on this exciting journey. Trust in our decade-long commitment to providing high-quality, award-winning used cars to make your first driving experience memorable and enjoyable. Happy driving!