Learning to drive can be a long and difficult process. But it’s one that’s made that little bit easier if you’re driving the right car. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of vehicles aimed at this little corner of the market. They tend to be lightweight and easy to handle. Ideally, you’ll not only learn to drive in a car of this kind – you’ll also hang onto it throughout the early years of your driving career, when you’ll be at statistically high risk of a collision, and therefore faced with higher insurance premiums.
Volkswagen Up!
If you’re looking for something compact, then the ‘Up!’ from Volkswagen is sure to appeal. It’s a smaller and more affordable version of the more recognisable names in the Volkswagen stable, but it retains many of the same features and engineering innovations.
When the Up! first debuted in 2012, it faced limited competition in the extra small ‘city car’ bracket. Since then, it’s attracted some stiff competition, but it still manages to stand up. The engine might feel a little underpowered, and there’s not much in the way of onboard tech, but you’ll still enjoy a great driving experience, and even better fuel economy. You can pick up a used Volkswagen in London for a relative pittance.
Ford Fiesta
For years, the Fiesta has proven exceptionally popular in an exceptionally competitive market, thanks to its all-round combination of excellent handling, features and drivability. The compromises are made in some of the materials in the mirrors and the interior, which make use of some cheaper plastics. The three-door Fiesta is now no longer available new, so you’ll need to look at the second-hand market if you’d like one of them. Whichever Fiesta you pick up, you can expect a wonderful driving experience.
Fiat 500
This distinctive model from Fiat is instantly recognisable. While the looks might divide opinion, it’s fair to say that if the 500 speaks to you, then it’s probably going to make a good match for you in the early stages of your life behind the wheel. The 500 is unapologetically a city car. It’s designed to navigate historic Italian city-centres, and to be parked even in the tightest spaces. There’s also an electric version to consider, which is considerably more affordable than much of the competition.
Seat Ibiza
The Ibiza has pushed the standard for superminis along, thanks to the wealth of tech it offers. There are special FR and FR sport models to choose from, but even if you opt for the no-frills model, you’ll benefit from sharp handling, a spacious interior, and five doors. The newest version of the Ibiza is actually based on the same platform as the Volkswagen Polo (SEAT was bought outright by Volkswagen in 1990).