Best First Cars With Low Road Tax UK

Introduction

Buying your first car is a rite of passage, isn’t it? It’s a mix of excitement, nerves, and the occasional panic attack when you realise you have to actually pay for it. One of the biggest considerations for new drivers is road tax, especially with the rising costs of living. Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there that won’t break the bank when it comes to road tax. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the Best First cars with low road tax in the UK, along with some handy tips and tricks to make your car-buying experience as smooth as a freshly waxed bonnet.

Dave's Genuine Recommendations

Let’s kick things off with my top picks for first cars that are not only affordable but also come with low road tax. These cars are perfect for new drivers and will keep your wallet happy.

1. Ford Fiesta

If I had a kid looking for their first car, I’d tell them to get a Ford Fiesta. Why? It’s the UK’s best-selling car for a reason! The Fiesta is a fantastic blend of style, practicality, and fun. With road tax starting at just £0 for the 1.0-litre EcoBoost model, it’s a no-brainer for new drivers. Plus, it’s easy to park, has a great driving experience, and boasts a decent amount of tech for the price.

The Fiesta is also known for its reliability, which is crucial for new drivers who might not want to deal with unexpected breakdowns. And let’s not forget about the insurance; it typically falls into the lower groups, making it easier on the wallet.

2. Vauxhall Corsa

Next up is the Vauxhall Corsa, another classic choice for first-time drivers. The Corsa is often praised for its comfort and decent interior space. With road tax starting at £20 for the 1.2-litre petrol variant, it’s a solid option for those who want a bit of flair without the hefty tax bill.

The Corsa is also a great car for city driving, thanks to its compact size and nimble handling. It’s not the most exciting car on the road, but it gets the job done and is generally reliable, which is what you want in your first car.

If you are weighing up alternatives, our guide to Best Cars for Learner Drivers to Practice In UK covers similar ground from a different angle.

3. Toyota Aygo

For those who want something a bit more quirky, the Toyota Aygo is a fantastic choice. With its unique styling and small footprint, it’s perfect for navigating tight city streets. The Aygo boasts a low road tax rate, often around £20, making it budget-friendly.

What I love about the Aygo is its fuel efficiency. It’s a car that won’t guzzle petrol, which is ideal for new drivers who might be watching their expenses. Plus, it’s known for its reliability, so you won’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road.

For more on this topic, take a look at our Best First Cars Under £12000 guide.

4. Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10 is a bit of an underdog, but it’s a brilliant choice for a first car. With road tax starting at £20, it’s affordable to run and maintain. The i10 is surprisingly spacious for a small car, making it a great option for those who need a bit more room for friends or shopping bags.

Hyundai has a reputation for reliability, and the i10 is no exception. It’s also packed with features, including a decent infotainment system, which is a nice touch for a first car.

You might also find our Best First Cars Under £1500 guide useful alongside this one.

5. Skoda Citigo

Last but not least, the Skoda Citigo is a fantastic little car that often flies under the radar. With road tax starting at £0 for the 1.0-litre model, it’s incredibly economical. The Citigo is known for its practicality and surprisingly spacious interior.

What sets the Citigo apart is its build quality. Skoda is known for making solid cars, and the Citigo is no exception. It’s easy to drive, easy to park, and perfect for new drivers who want something reliable without the fuss.

We have covered related ground in our First Car Buying Checklist guide, which is worth reading if this subject interests you.

Insurance Reality

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: insurance. If you’re a new driver, you’re probably aware that insurance can be a bit of a nightmare. The good news is that many of the cars I’ve mentioned fall into lower insurance groups, which can save you a pretty penny.

For instance, the Ford Fiesta typically falls into insurance groups 1-10, depending on the model. This means you can expect quotes ranging from £800 to £1,200 for a 17-25-year-old driver. The Vauxhall Corsa is similar, often landing in groups 1-10 as well, with quotes in the same ballpark.

You can look up the exact insurance group for any car on Thatcham's website before getting quotes.

To keep your insurance premiums down, consider the following tips:

• Choose a car in a lower insurance group: This is crucial. Cars like the Aygo and Citigo are often in the lower groups, making them cheaper to insure.
• Add a named driver: If you have a parent or older sibling with a clean driving record, adding them as a named driver can lower your premium.
• Consider a black box policy: While it might sound a bit like a spy gadget, a telematics policy can reward you for good driving behaviour with lower premiums.
• Increase your excess: If you can afford to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, this can sometimes lower your premium.

The FCA has a useful guide to car finance that explains your rights and what to watch for.

Running Costs Breakdown

Now that we’ve tackled insurance, let’s look at the running costs of owning a first car. It’s not just about the purchase price; you need to consider fuel, maintenance, and, of course, road tax.

Monthly Budget Example

Let’s say you’ve chosen a Ford Fiesta. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you might expect to pay monthly:

• Insurance: £100 (this can vary widely)
• Fuel: £60 (assuming you do about 400 miles a month at 50 mpg and petrol costs £1.40 per litre)
• Road Tax: £0 (for the EcoBoost model)
• MOT and servicing: £30 (averaged out over the year)
• Repairs and maintenance: £20 (just in case)

Total Monthly Cost: £310

This is just a rough estimate, but it gives you an idea of what to expect. If you opt for a different car, like a Vauxhall Corsa, you might find the costs are quite similar, with minor variations based on fuel efficiency and insurance.

Safety That Actually Matters

When it comes to safety, it’s not just about the Euro NCAP star rating. While it’s a good indicator, there are features that can make a real difference for inexperienced drivers. Here are some safety features to look for:

1. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

This feature helps prevent skidding and loss of control, which is especially useful for new drivers who might be a bit overzealous with the accelerator.

2. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. This can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.

3. Airbags

Look for cars with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. They provide crucial protection in the event of a collision.

4. Lane Departure Warning

This feature alerts drivers if they unintentionally drift out of their lane. It’s a great tool for new drivers who might be a bit distracted.

5. Rear Parking Sensors

These are incredibly helpful for new drivers who might struggle with parking. They provide audible warnings when you’re getting too close to an object.

Cars like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa often come equipped with these features, making them safer choices for new drivers. Always check the specific model’s safety features before making a purchase.

Mistakes Dave Sees All the Time

As someone who’s been around the block a few times in the car world, I’ve seen my fair share of first-time buyers make some classic mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

1. Skipping the Vehicle History Check

I can’t stress this enough: always check the vehicle history before buying. You can use the DVLA vehicle check to see if the car has been in any accidents or has outstanding finance. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of heartache.

2. Ignoring the MOT History

Before you hand over your hard-earned cash, check the car’s MOT history on the GOV.UK MOT history site. This will give you insight into any past issues and whether the car has been well-maintained.

3. Not Test Driving

I’ve seen people buy cars without even taking them for a spin. Don’t be that person! Always test drive the car to see how it feels and if it suits your driving style.

4. Focusing Solely on Price

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that running costs matter too. A car with low road tax might have higher insurance or fuel costs, so consider the bigger picture.

5. Forgetting About Future Needs

Think about your future needs. If you plan to move out or have a family, a small car might not be the best long-term choice. Consider how your needs might change in the next few years.

Dave's Final Word

Buying your first car is a big step, and it’s important to do your homework. Look for cars with low road tax, good safety features, and reasonable insurance costs. Remember to check the vehicle history and MOT status before making a purchase. With a bit of research and the right mindset, you’ll find a car that fits your needs and budget perfectly.

And don’t forget, before you make that final decision, check any car with my free vehicle intelligence report. It’s a simple way to ensure you’re making a smart choice. Happy car hunting, and may your first car be everything you dreamed of and more!