Buying your first car can be a daunting experience. With relatively little time spent on the road, you might not know quite what you’re looking for – and yet, this can be a decision with major implications for your finances, and your quality of life more broadly.
Let’s take a look at a few key factors worth considering.
Affordability and Insurance Costs
The cost of motoring is going up. And, for young and inexperienced drivers, the financial pressure can be considerable. You might have limited funds available and yet face higher insurance premiums.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options available at the budget end of the market. You might look into a Volkswagen Up!, or a SEAT Ibiza, both of which are highly affordable, and popular with young people.
Safety Features and Ratings
Of course, saving money needn’t mean compromising on safety – which is arguably the most important feature of any new car. Certain brands tend to be associated with safety, and this is largely reflected in the results of consumer surveys. Certain models, like the Toyota Aygo, tend to perform consistently well. However, for the ultimate peace of mind, you might consult independent testing labs, like Euro NCAP, which subject all new releases to vigorous crash tests.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
You’ll want to think not just about the cost of buying the vehicle, but also that of running it. Fuel costs money, and the further you can travel on a given gallon, the more you’ll be saving. For many, this can make fuel efficiency a big concern. If you know you’re going to be driving long distances, it might be worth spending extra on an efficient vehicle. This is where options like the Peugeot 208 and the new Vauxhall Corsa tend to be appealing.
Practicality and Reliability
If your vehicle is constantly breaking down, then it might cost you more in the long run. In some cases, the inconvenience of a breakdown might cause you to miss out on career opportunities, which can be disastrous. Spend a little more on a vehicle that’s reputable. You can consult consumer surveys on reliability to get an idea of which brands to prefer – and which to avoid.
It’s also worth talking to mechanics and garage owners. Which cars do they look at most consistently? Which are the most expensive to keep on the road? If you’re tempted to invest in electric cars, you might consider not just how often they break down, but how easy it is to find specialised mechanics capable of getting them working again. The availability of charging points near you might also be something to think carefully about!