Although not always the case, usually the first couple of years of driving you are gaining confidence and skills, so this page contains some great suggestions of small, 'city' cars that are easier to handle and have cheaper insurance than larger models. They are also more economical on fuel and tax!
As a general rule, brand new cars tend to come with lower rate finance deals and lots of adds on such as free insurance incentives, service packages and with finance deposit contributions. They have a longer manufacturer warranty than used cars. Used cars are also available on finance, but usually with a higher APR %. They do come with several back ups, such as the remainder of the manufacturer warranty or extended warranties and roadside assistance, as part of a comprehensive 'approved used' scheme. All finance is subject to status and can take the form of purchase or lease/rental.
OK, now let's start that wish list! ...
Volkswagen have a large range of cars from city run-arounds to large SUVs and estates. Models we recommend as first cars are listed here with links to more details and finance offers on each model. Volkswagen are investing heavily in electrification of their range. Used Volkswagens retain their value very well. Volkswagens have a reputation for good build quality and are therefore long lasting.
SEAT cars have a reputation for being stylish and vibrant. Originally from Spain they are now under the Volkswagen group, so retain their Spanish style and gain the Volkswagen reputation for reliability, quality build and technology. They have a range of sizes and types of model including small, medium and large cars and SUVs. SEAT are moving gradually into electrification and hybridisation of their range. SEAT are increasing their market share so you will gradually see more of them around and therefore more used cars available. The Mii city car is not available as a new car at present, but you may find it as a used car (petrol or electric).
Under the Volkswagen brand, ŠKODA is based in the Czech Republic, but with an international design and engineering team. Again this brand benefits from Volkswagen innovation in technology and is gradually moving across to hybrid and electric versions of its model range. The entry level Citigo is not available as a new car at present, but may be found as a used car. ŠKODA have hatchbacks, estates and SUVs in their range.
Citroën cars are a French origin brand and are known for their stylish affordability. The Citroën range includes cars, SUVs, people carriers and vans. The C1 is not presently available as a new car, but can be found as a used car. The range includes petrol, electric and hybrid versions.
Kia has established itself as a good value, reliable and technically forward thinking brand. It boasts a 7 year warranty across the range. Kia is developing an extensive hybrid range and also fully electric. The range includes hatchbacks of all sizes and SUVs, saloons, estates and crossovers.
This French owned brand is well known for its car and van range. It is very reasonably priced and has a big variety of vehicles in its range - hatchbacks, SUVs, passenger carriers, vans and van conversions. It has had electric and hybrid vehicles in its range for some time and is gradually introducing electric and hybrid versions of all its models. The popularity of Renault cars means that there are always plenty available on the used car market too.
Dacia are a range of cars owned by the Renault group. The range is small but is known for its exceptional value. The Dacia range includes hatchbacks and SUVs. The engine choice is currently petrol, diesel or bi-fuel. Being fairly new to the UK market, the availability of used Dacia cars has been limited, but more are seen on the road and are increasing in number.
A word about 'mpg' fuel economy figures...
The standard EU testing procedure for fuel consumption figures has now changed. It is much more dependent on the variant of the model you choose and the accessories that are fitted to the vehicle, like spoilers for example. Read a bit more about the new way of measuring fuel economy - WLTP - here. You can always give us a call if you want to find out details for a specific model.
