Cheapest Cars To Insure New Drivers — Dave Recommends

Introduction

So, you’ve just passed your driving test and are ready to hit the open road. But wait! Before you rush out to buy your first car, have you considered how much it’s going to cost to insure? Insurance can be a hefty expense, especially for new drivers, but fear not! I’m here to guide you through the maze of options and help you find the cheapest cars to insure.

In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations for cars that won’t break the bank when it comes to insurance. We’ll explore the ins and outs of insurance groups, running costs, and even some common mistakes new drivers make. Let’s dive in!

Dave's Genuine Recommendations

1. Ford Fiesta

Let’s kick things off with the Ford Fiesta, a perennial favourite among new drivers. Why? It’s not just about its stylish looks and zippy performance; it’s also one of the cheapest cars to insure. The Fiesta typically falls into insurance groups 1-10, making it a safe bet for those fresh on the roads. Plus, with a starting price around £5,000 for a decent used model, it’s affordable too.

What really sets the Fiesta apart is its fun driving experience. It’s nimble, easy to park, and has a reputation for reliability. You’ll also find a decent range of engines, including the economical 1.0-litre EcoBoost, which offers great fuel efficiency. If I had a kid just starting out, the Fiesta would be my top recommendation without a doubt.

2. Vauxhall Corsa

Next up, we have the Vauxhall Corsa. This little gem is often touted as one of the Best First cars for new drivers, and for good reason. With insurance groups ranging from 1-10, it’s very affordable to insure. You can pick up a solid used Corsa for around £4,500, and it’s known for its practicality and comfort.

If you are weighing up alternatives, our guide to Best First Cars Under £3000 covers similar ground from a different angle.

If you are weighing up alternatives, our guide to Best Automatic First Cars covers similar ground from a different angle.

The Corsa is particularly appealing for those who want a car that’s easy to drive and has a spacious interior. It’s perfect for city driving, and you’ll appreciate the low running costs. Plus, with a variety of engine options, including efficient petrol and diesel variants, you can choose what suits your driving style best.

3. Skoda Fabia

The Skoda Fabia is another fantastic option for new drivers. Often overlooked, this car offers incredible value for money. With insurance groups typically between 1-10, it’s one of the cheapest cars to insure. You can find a good used Fabia for around £5,000, and it’s known for its reliability and practicality.

What makes the Fabia stand out is its spacious boot and comfortable ride. It’s perfect for those who may need to carry a bit of luggage or shopping. Plus, its fuel-efficient engines mean you won’t be spending a fortune at the petrol station. It’s a sensible choice that combines affordability with functionality.

For more on this topic, take a look at our Best First Cars Under £8000 guide.

4. Toyota Aygo

If you’re looking for something a bit more compact, the Toyota Aygo is a brilliant choice. With insurance groups typically ranging from 1-5, it’s one of the most affordable cars to insure on the market. You can easily find a used Aygo for around £6,000, and it’s known for its quirky design and excellent reliability.

For more on this topic, take a look at our Best First Cars Cheap Servicing guide.

The Aygo is perfect for urban driving, thanks to its small size and tight turning circle. It’s also incredibly fuel-efficient, making it a great option for those who want to keep running costs down. Plus, with Toyota’s reputation for reliability, you can drive with peace of mind knowing you’ve made a solid choice.

5. Hyundai i10

Last but not least, let’s talk about the Hyundai i10. This little car is often praised for its value and affordability. With insurance groups typically ranging from 1-10, it’s another great option for new drivers. You can find a used i10 for around £5,500, and it’s known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride.

You might also find our Best First Cars for 18 Year Olds UK guide useful alongside this one.

The i10 is perfect for those who want a practical car that’s easy to drive. It’s also packed with features, making it a great value for money. Plus, with Hyundai’s excellent warranty, you can rest assured that you’re covered for any unexpected issues.

Insurance Reality

Now that we’ve covered some of the best cars for new drivers, let’s talk about the reality of insurance. It’s no secret that insurance premiums can be sky-high for young drivers, but understanding how insurance groups work can help you make a more informed choice.

You might also find our Best First Cars Under £5,000 UK guide useful alongside this one.

Insurance groups range from 1 to 50, with lower numbers indicating cheaper premiums. Cars in groups 1-10 are generally the most affordable to insure, which is why the vehicles mentioned above are excellent options. For instance, a Ford Fiesta or a Vauxhall Corsa typically falls into these lower groups, making them budget-friendly choices.

Before buying, you can check the exact road tax cost on GOV.UK using the registration number.

For a 17-25-year-old, typical insurance quotes can vary widely, but you might expect to pay anywhere from £800 to £2,000 annually, depending on the car, your location, and your driving history. Here are a few tips to help you bring those premiums down:

• Choose a lower insurance group: As we’ve discussed, opting for cars in groups 1-10 can significantly reduce your premiums.
• Add a named driver: Adding an experienced driver, like a parent, to your policy can lower your premiums.
• Consider a higher excess: Opting for a higher voluntary excess can reduce your premium, but make sure you can afford to pay it in case of a claim.
• Secure your car: Installing a good alarm or immobiliser can also help lower your insurance costs.

Running Costs Breakdown

When budgeting for your first car, it’s essential to consider more than just the purchase price and insurance. Running costs can add up quickly, so let’s break it down.

Monthly Budget Example

Let’s say you’ve chosen a Ford Fiesta, which is a fantastic choice for a new driver. Here’s a realistic monthly budget you might expect:

We have covered related ground in our Best First Cars With Low Road Tax UK guide, which is worth reading if this subject interests you.

If things go wrong after purchase, Citizens Advice can help you understand your legal rights.

• Car Loan Payment: If you finance a used Fiesta for £5,000 over five years at a 6% interest rate, your monthly payment would be around £100.
• Insurance: For a new driver, let’s estimate your insurance at £1,200 annually, which breaks down to £100 per month.
• Fuel Costs: Assuming you drive around 600 miles a month and your Fiesta gives you around 50 mpg, you’d spend about £80 on petrol.
• Road Tax: The Fiesta’s road tax is typically around £150 annually, or about £12.50 per month.
• MOT and Maintenance: Budgeting around £30 per month for MOT and maintenance is a good idea, especially for older cars.

Total Estimated Monthly Cost

Putting it all together, your estimated monthly running costs for a Ford Fiesta would be around £322.50. This budget gives you a realistic view of what to expect as a new driver, ensuring you’re not caught off guard by unexpected expenses.

Safety That Actually Matters

Safety is a crucial factor for new drivers, and it’s not just about the Euro NCAP star rating. While it’s great to know a car has a good safety score, you need to consider which features will genuinely make a difference on the road.

Key Safety Features

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): This feature prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, helping you maintain control.
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control): This system helps prevent skidding and loss of control, especially in slippery conditions.
• Airbags: Look for cars with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect you in the event of a collision.
• Lane Departure Warning: This feature alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane, which can be particularly helpful for new drivers still getting used to the road.
• Parking Sensors: These can help you avoid bumps and scrapes when parking, which is a common concern for new drivers.

When considering a car, take the time to check its safety features and ratings. It’s worth investing in a vehicle that prioritises safety, especially for inexperienced drivers.

Mistakes Dave Sees All The Time

As a used car expert, I’ve seen my fair share of new drivers make mistakes that could have been easily avoided. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

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

You can check any car's full MOT history for free on GOV.UK before arranging a viewing.

1. Skipping the Test Drive

I can’t stress this enough: always take a car for a test drive before you buy it. You might think a car looks great on paper, but how does it feel on the road? Don’t skip this crucial step!

2. Ignoring Insurance Costs

Many first-time buyers focus solely on the purchase price and forget to factor in insurance. Always check the insurance group before committing to a car. You don’t want to be stuck with a vehicle that’s too expensive to insure.

3. Overlooking the Importance of Service History

A full service history can save you a lot of headaches down the line. It’s a good indicator of how well the car has been maintained. Always ask for this documentation when considering a used car.

4. Not Checking for Outstanding Finance

Before you buy a used car, make sure it’s not subject to any outstanding finance. You can easily check this through the DVLA vehicle check. You don’t want to end up paying for someone else’s debt!

Dave's Final Word

As you embark on your journey as a new driver, remember that choosing the right car is about more than just looks or price. It’s about finding a vehicle that fits your lifestyle, is affordable to insure, and keeps you safe on the road. The Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, Skoda Fabia, Toyota Aygo, and Hyundai i10 are all excellent choices that won’t break the bank.

Take your time, do your research, and don’t hesitate to reach out for advice. Whether you’re looking for the Best First cars that hold their value or the Best Small cars for new drivers, I’m here to help. And remember, always check any car with me before you buy!

Happy driving, and stay safe out there!