The 9 Best Vehicles for New Drivers. Learn the top cars for teenagers, young drivers, and beginners. Read about safety and fuel efficiency.
Driving is an essential part of day-to-day life, and finding the perfect first car can be challenging. The automotive market features many great choices. However, it can be difficult for young drivers to narrow down a list of prospects. Depending on your needs, a specific vehicle model might speak louder than others. This list of the 9 best vehicles for new drivers highlights the top models for all first-time drivers to feel safe and confident while on the road. Whether you pick a sedan, SUV/crossover, compact car, or truck, we look forward to having you join the rest of us on the road.
Are you wondering whether you should lease or finance your first car? Find out the advantages and disadvantages of leasing and financing here.
*Disclaimer: All vehicles are built to code with the necessary safety features. Additionally, all specs are based on the base edition models.
VINN recommends staying on a regular servicing and maintenance schedule to maintain your vehicle. Learn more about vehicle servicing here.
Starting at $22,995 (CAD).
The Volkswagen Golf is the king of smaller compact hatchbacks and a good starter car. Impressive fuel efficiency combined with relatively affordable pricing compared to other models in its class makes the Golf an excellent choice for beginners. The sporty appearance offers first-time drivers a stylish vehicle with great utility for transportation, recreation, and storage. The Golf is a fantastic choice for any new driver looking to maximize utility and fuel efficiency while not breaking the bank.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Volkswagen Canada (@vwcanada)
Starting from $27,750 (CAD).
Toyota is well-known in the automotive industry for its reliable models and the Toyota Camry is no exception. The Camry is the perfect economical sedan to get any beginner driver behind the wheel. This vehicle is excellent for everyday commuting because of Toyota's attention to the driving experience. The Camry has excellent fuel efficiency and spacious passenger seating. Any owner will tell you that this model is one of the best options for new drivers.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toyota Canada (@toyotacanada)
Starting from $27,899 (CAD).
The Hyundai Tucson is an excellent choice in the SUV market for teenage drivers beginning their journey on the road. SUVs tend to offer more utility at the expense of fuel efficiency than their sedan and compact counterparts. However, the Tucson hardly sacrifices any efficiency with additional space to transport your friends, furry companions, or sporting equipment. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson looks to revise and build upon past models by offering innovations and new features.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hyundai Canada (@hyundaicanada)
Starting from $20,750 (CAD).
Mazda delivers an outstanding sedan model with the Mazda 3. This vehicle better tailors to the needs of young drivers with both sedan and hatchback options. The Mazda 3 is an excellent first car because of its affordability, flexibility, and utility. The fun personality engineered by Mazda makes this an exciting choice for individuals seeking adventure with its outstanding fuel efficiency. This model can excel in the sedan field with plenty of features while sporting a stylish exterior body. Price-conscious teenage drivers should consider the Mazda 3 while shopping for their first car.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mazda Canada (@mazdacanada)
Starting from $34,079 (CAD).
Since its launch, the Ford F-150 has been the gold standard in pickup truck performance and reliability, making it one of the best starter cars currently available. Trucks are an excellent choice for young drivers who need to transport goods and other work-related activities. The Ford F-150 is all-new for 2021, offering new powertrains, updated styling, an entirely new interior, and a host of other features. The F-150 is the best truck to pick for new drivers due to Ford's consistent innovation and reliability.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ford Motor Company (@ford)
Starting from $21,995 (CAD).
The Subaru Impreza is an affordable entry into the compact vehicle class. This vehicle is a good starter car for someone seeking practical daily driving at a fair price. The Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive, a unique feature in its class. This model offers both a sedan and hatchback option to fit the needs of young drivers balancing commuting with adventuring. The all-wheel-drive and utility of the Impreza make it an excellent choice for road trips of any kind and reliable in most weather conditions. The Impreza is an ideal first car and should be on the radar for new drivers whose lifestyle matches the model's strengths.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Subaru of America (@subaru_usa)
Starting from $24,465 (CAD).
The Honda Civic is a well-known choice for new drivers due to its reliability. The 2022 Honda Civic continues with the same formula; however, Honda has improved the cabin design, appearance, and features. The Civic offers both sedan and hatchback options. Therefore, the Honda Civic is an excellent choice for commuting and recreational activities. This vehicle is a perfect all-around choice for teenage drivers and new drivers.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honda Canada (@hondacanada)
Starting from $28,850 (CAD).
The Toyota RAV 4 is another excellent choice in the SUV category and a good starter car. This model bolsters sophisticated simplicity with fantastic practicality and an efficient design. The RAV4 is a terrific first car with excellent fuel efficiency and plenty of space for all of life's necessities. This SUV costs more than a traditional sedan or compact car. However, the added value of space and utility makes this one of the best first cars for teenage drivers with a larger budget.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by TOYOTA (@toyota)
Starting from $19,450 (CAD).
Toyota continues to have excellent entry-level vehicles for new drivers seeking their first car. The Toyota Corolla is perhaps one of the best. The sporty exterior attracts car lovers of all ages with remarkable affordability and a fun driving experience. The Corolla offers both sedan and hatchback variations. The Corolla is super reliable, with a long history of transporting commuters safely to their destinations. Young drivers looking for a well-designed, visually appealing vehicle with attention to efficiency and utility should look no further than the Toyota Corolla.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toyota Canada (@toyotacanada)
Still, have questions about choosing the best first car?
Find out how much you should spend on a car and what you should consider when buying a car.
At VINN, we work directly with you to guide you through the process of finding a new car. Our vehicle experts will work with you to ensure that you get the best value for the right car, and you can also browse our inventory.
Happy driving! 🚘 Tell us about your favorite vehicles or fun car facts by tagging us on Instagram @vinncanada or Twitter @vinnauto.
Describe your needs and budget to a VINN Vehicle Expert. They'll find cars that match your preferences and send you the results. Want to book a test drive? They'll arrange that too. No charge.
Talk with a vehicle expert
