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The 7 Best Cars for New Drivers – and the 7 Worst

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2025-08-11 16:23:35

The 7 Best Cars for New Drivers – and the 7 Worst — Crédit: Domenik2212 on Pixabay

Driving is both a thrilling adventure and a necessary skill for modern living. Safety is paramount when first getting behind the wheel, so choosing a car that's easy for newcomers to handle is vital. Learning to drive can be overwhelming, so the last thing you want is to worry about additional factors like tricky repairs or manual transmission usage at the beginning.If you are learning how to drive for the first time, then take it slow and steady with this list of the seven best cars for newcomers. We've also included seven models to avoid until you have more experience on the road.

1. Honda Civic

The Civic is a classic choice for first-time drivers. The incredible gas mileage, smooth control, and steadfast reliability make it easy for less experienced commuters to get where they need to go. Plus, if anything goes wrong with the car, Civics are easy to service thanks to the abundance of compatible parts available.

2. Toyota Corolla

Toyota has a wide inventory of vehicles for drivers of any stripe. The Corolla is its model for newcomers to the road. The controls are intuitive, maintenance is fairly cost-effective, and the resale value holds up well over time. Not only is this a great starter car, but the popularity makes it easy to trade in once you decide to upgrade.

3. Mazda 3

Mazda utilizes user-friendly tech that new drivers will appreciate. In addition to the intuitive interface, expect fantastic gas mileage under most road conditions. If safety is your main concern, the impressive high safety ratings of the Mazda 3 will surely put your mind at ease.

4. Hyundai Kona

If you like the look of SUVs, the Hyundai Kona is an excellent starting point. The elevated seat is rather comfy and provides clear visibility of the world around you. The Kona also sports modern tech conveniences and is relatively easy to maintain. Insurance rates on these models tend to be lower as well.

5. Subaru Impreza

This entry-level sedan comes with all-wheel drive. It significantly improves the safety rating of the vehicle because it is much easier to steer in snow or other inclement conditions. The interior also boasts ample space so you can remain comfortable and focused while behind the wheel.

6. Ford Fiesta

If you are unsure of your parking skills, the Ford Fiesta is a nice choice. This compact car is simple to maneuver into and out of parking spaces. The brakes are extremely reliable, so it is easy to correct slight mistakes or avoid collisions while you are still learning.

7. Volkswagen Golf

This model is extremely popular due to its ease of use and reliable components. The hatchback functionality is great for carrying loads around or activities like tailgating. The seats are rather comfortable, and the impressive crash-test ratings provide additional peace of mind.

8. Ford Mustang

This iconic car has many attractive qualities in its own right; however, it is slightly complex for first-time drivers. Powerful engines must be tempered with carefully earned experience behind the wheel. Until you establish a safe driving record, the insurance costs on this car will skyrocket.

9. Chevrolet Camaro

The Camaro packs a punch that may prove difficult for new drivers to fully control. The rear-wheel drive functionality further exacerbated the issue when driving in rough conditions or slippery weather. Many cars offer better fuel efficiency as well, so new drivers are best served with something more reliable.

10. Dodge Challenger

This bulky muscle car is quite unruly if you don't know how to keep it in check. The beefy engine, hefty frame, and low gas mileage are a tricky combination for newcomers. The Challenger also comes in an overwhelming variety of trims and purchase options. While this is great for experts, novice drivers will find it hard to know what's what.

11. Jeep Wrangler

This off-road favorite is an excellent choice for adventurers who love to drive. However, the Jeep Wrangler offers relatively poor performance on traditional roads. This makes it slightly too cumbersome for newcomers who wish to master the basic commute before hitting dirt trails.

12. BMW 3 Series

This dazzling machine might be tempting when you first get a glimpse of it. Unfortunately, luxurious cars often have high maintenance and insurance costs to match their opulent designs. The BMW 3 Series is a classic example of this issue, and the rear-wheel drive adds unnecessary risks into the mix.

13. Nissan 370Z

The Nissan 370Z was built with speed demons and road enthusiasts in mind. As such, the advanced controls and unruly steering are not ideal for young drivers. The sporty performance and manual transmission featured in this model further raise the barrier of entry. The 2-door design of this sedan is rather limiting as well.

14. Chevrolet Suburban

The Chevy Suburban is a massive SUV that serves as an excellent way to transport whole families at once. However, the bulky size makes it incredibly difficult to park and maneuver between other vehicles. Since new drivers are liable to get nervous in tight spaces, go for something more agile instead.