Young drivers and first-timers have a hard time when it comes to choosing a car. You’ve just spent all your savings paying for driving lessons, which doesn’t leave you much to buy a car! Then there’s the cost of insurance, which is sky high for teenagers and young people. What you need is a car that is cheap to buy, and cheap to run. You’re looking for something safe, because you might not feel completely confident behind the wheel yet. Plus, you need something reliable, because who wants to spend a fortune at the garage? Here are some of the best options out there.

Fiat 500 – This remake of an old classic is a great starter car. It’s quirky, and looks brilliant. It’s stylish, which suits the young generation perfectly. At the same time, it’s practical, and cost-efficient to run. It’s also surprisingly cheap, especially on the used market. We came across a number of Fiat 500s for less than £6,000 at Thames Motor Group. That’s not too bad for a reliable starter car!

Hyundai i10 – If you’re looking for a super small car that’s cheap to run, it doesn’t get much better than the i10. This city car is the perfect urban runaround. Thanks to its super efficient engine, it’s completely free to tax, which is extra money in your pocket. It will also save you money at the pumps. The car’s size also puts it in the lowest insurance bracket, so you won’t get ripped off by your insurance company. That certainly takes the stress out of driving!

Ford Fiesta – The Fiesta is Britain’s best-selling car, and there must be a good reason for that. Well, there is. It’s a solid, all-rounder with excellent credentials. It looks great, especially the new model with its fierce front grill. It’s cheap to buy, cheap to run, and cheap to insure. Best of all, it’s super fun to drive. The ride is responsive, exciting, and balanced. We love the Ford Fiesta, and there’s a reason it’s the top seller.

Volkswagen Polo – When it comes to reliability and build-quality, it doesn’t get much better than the VW Polo. The German manufacturers have a reputation for building strong, solid cars. The Polo is no different, and it’s one of the top cars on the road. It’s less powerful than its older brother, the Golf. However, it’s also cheaper to buy and run. We think it’s a good compromise while you build up a few years of no-claims bonuses!

Mini Cooper – If you do have a little money in your pocket, it’s worth considering the Mini Cooper. This is at the more expensive end of the options, but it’s a fantastic car, and a best-seller in the US this year. It’s the full package, with excellent fuel economy and good safety features. It’s probably the most fun car to drive on the list, and it looks great too. It’s a little more expensive to ensure than the others, but you get what you pay for with the Mini.

It isn’t easy for young drivers to get on the road, but these cars are your best starting option. Good luck!