Buying your first car can be both an exciting and daunting experience. There are countless models, brands, and factors to consider, all while staying within a budget. As a first-time buyer, you want a vehicle that matches your style and comfort and is reliable, easy to handle, and won’t break the bank regarding maintenance and fuel efficiency.
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Honda Civic (2017-Present)
The Honda Civic is an outstanding choice for first-time car buyers due to its superior reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. Known for their durability, Civics can easily run for over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. The 2017 model offers an impressive fuel efficiency rate of up to 32 city/42 highway MPG and includes various safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Its compact size makes it easier to park and maneuver, particularly in urban settings, and its moderate price point is ideal for those on a budget. The starting price for a 2017 Honda Civic is around $14,000.
Toyota Corolla (2018-Present)
The Toyota Corolla, much like the Honda Civic, is another vehicle renowned for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2018 model has a fuel economy of 28 city/36 highway MPG and features Toyota’s Safety Sense system, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. With a comfortable interior and a reputation for longevity, it’s a car that will serve a new driver well for years. The starting price for a 2018 Toyota Corolla is around $14,500.
Subaru Impreza (2017-Present)
The Subaru Impreza is an excellent choice for first-time car buyers, particularly those living in regions with harsh weather. With standard all-wheel drive across all models and an average fuel economy of 28 city/38 highway MPG for the 2017 model, it’s perfect for safely navigating snowy or rainy conditions. The Impreza also scores high in safety ratings, with standard features like a rearview camera and the availability of advanced driver assistance systems. The starting price for a 2017 Subaru Impreza is around $15,000.
Ford Focus (2016-Present)
The Ford Focus is a versatile car that comes as a sedan or hatchback. The 2016 model features a fuel economy of 26 city/36 highway MPG and is equipped with Ford’s MyKey system, allowing parents to set speed and volume limits for their young drivers, making it a great option for first-time buyers. Moreover, it has a sporty and responsive driving dynamic, adding a bit of fun to everyday commuting. The starting price of a 2016 Ford Focus is around $10,000.
Honda Fit (2016-Present)
For first-time car buyers needing versatility and interior space, but still wanting a compact vehicle, the Honda Fit is a perfect choice. The 2016 model’s “Magic Seat” allows multiple configurations and ample cargo space, and it has an outstanding fuel economy of 33 city/41 highway MPG. Its small size does not compromise safety, with many models featuring a rearview camera and advanced driver aids like collision mitigation braking. The starting price of a 2016 Honda Fit is about $11,000.
Hyundai Elantra (2017-Present)
The Hyundai Elantra is another smart choice, offering a long warranty and packed with modern tech features. The 2017 model, with 26 city/36 highway MPG, provides comfort, style, and safety features like blind-spot detection and lane departure warning. Plus, it’s one of the few compact cars with heated rear seats, adding a touch of luxury for a modest price. The starting price of a 2017 Hyundai Elantra is around $12,000.
Toyota Camry (2018-Present)
The Toyota Camry is a great first car known for its reliability and comfort. The 2018 model boasts an impressive fuel economy (29 city/41 highway MPG) for a midsize sedan. It also comes standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense system, providing first-time drivers with additional peace of mind. Its roomy interior and smooth ride quality make it a popular choice. The starting price of a 2018 Toyota Camry is around $18,000.
Honda Accord (2017-Present)
The Honda Accord has a long-standing reputation for reliability, safety, and strong resale value, making it an excellent choice for a first car. The 2017 model has a robust fuel economy at 27 city/36 highway MPG and features like dual-zone automatic climate control and a multi-angle rearview camera as standard. It’s a midsize sedan, providing more interior space than compact models but still relatively easy for new drivers to handle. The starting price for a 2017 Honda Accord is around $16,000.
Mazda3 (2016-Present)
The Mazda3, with its excellent handling and upscale interior, is an exciting option for first-time buyers. The 2016 model offers a fuel economy of 28 city/37 highway MPG. Its SKYACTIV technology enhances performance and fuel efficiency, and i-ACTIVSENSE safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control offer advanced driver assistance. The starting price of the 2016 Mazda3 is about $13,000.
Chevrolet Malibu (2016-Present)
The Chevrolet Malibu is a well-rounded midsize sedan that provides ample cabin space, smooth ride quality, and a touch of luxury. The 2016 model delivers a solid fuel economy (27 city/37 highway MPG) and features Chevy’s Teen Driver system, which allows parents to monitor their young driver’s behavior and set limits on vehicle use, adding to its appeal for first-time drivers. The starting price for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is around $13,500.
Kia Soul (2017-Present)
The Kia Soul stands out with its unique design and versatile interior. Its boxy shape allows for excellent cargo capacity and headroom. The 2017 model has a decent fuel economy (24 city/30 highway MPG) and comes with a long warranty. It’s also packed with safety features and advanced tech, making it an appealing and affordable choice for first-time buyers. The starting price of a 2017 Kia Soul is around $12,000.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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