Top 12 Best Cars for Learner Drivers in the UK

Learning how to drive a car is nerve-wracking as is. You don’t need the added stress of uncomfortable driving, poor manoeuvring, and high running costs. So, it makes little sense for a learner driver to get a bulky, expensive car that they would be devastated to dent or scratch.

Just to be safe, we recommend getting a car that meets your current needs - and you can always upgrade later. People who are new behind the wheel should reasonably decide how much they should spend on a first car and focus on practicality. If you agree, check out our list of the best cars for learner drivers.

As you go down the list, keep in mind that Carplus can help you finance the car of your dreams under the most favourable conditions. Use our online tool to get the quote today!

Seat Ibiza

Ibiza is a reliable supermini. Its engines are strong performers for their size, and you can choose between three different specifications. If you need the low insurance group, though, the non-turbo 80hp version is the right pick. The driving experience itself is smooth and stable.

Learner drivers will appreciate the light steering, which makes the car perfect for driving around town or parking in tighter spots. If parking is not your strong suit, the higher-spec models come with advanced park sensors. The all-around visibility will be helpful at tricky junctions, too.

The base model promises low running costs - thanks to fuel economy and a low insurance rating in Group 3. However, larger wheels added accessories, and a higher trim will make the car less economical.

Vauxhall Corsa

Learner drivers who don’t mind the sluggish acceleration can go for the entry-level engine (74 hp). Alternatively, on the driving test, you can go for a 99-hp or 128-hp Corsa, with a 0-60 mph sprint of 9.3 and 8.0 seconds. The model’s suspension can handle obstacles like potholes and drain covers, but be careful when driving over more minor road surface imperfections.

The steering in the Corsa is exceptionally light, which makes parking manoeuvres more accurate. Optionally, you can add a heavier trim if you want a more engaging experience at higher speeds. The standard features include lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure alerts, driver fatigue monitoring, speed-limit recognition, and emergency braking.

The Corsa offers incredible fuel consumption figures for its class and is a cheap car to insure.

Ford Fiesta

Even the most basic Fiestas ensure an excellent driving experience. The pin-sharp steering offers plenty of composure on winding roads, the wheel has an incredible amount of grip, and there are no issues with handling sharp-edged bumps. The ride is also reasonably relaxing, thanks to the soft suspension and comfortable seats.

Learner drivers don’t really need a more expensive configuration - like the ST model. Of course, if you want a higher level of sophistication, go for it. But the standard kit, which includes a hill start assist and lane-keeping assistance, is more than enough.

The Fiesta is good on fuel, with the level of efficiency varying based on the configuration. Its relatively low CO2 emissions are another contributing factor to day-to-day affordability.

You may also want to read - Hatchback vs Saloon

Volkswagen Polo

Yet another city car on our list, Volkswagen Polo, is deservedly one of the most exciting choices in the supermini class. The range of engines will be enough for any learner driver, although decent acceleration starts at the 1.0-litre TSI 95 (95 hp output).

The Polo is surprisingly composed even on bad roads, with an insignificant amount of fidgeting. On smooth roads, the car will glide over. The standard suspension is competent through the corners, and there should be no issue steering the wheel through a series of bends at faster speeds. All in all, the car is just easy to drive.

The base model sneaks into car insurance group 3, and the more amped-up versions belong in groups 9, 10, 12, and 23.

Toyota Aygo

The Aygo has modest power reserves, with just 71 hp generated by the 1.0-litre petrol engine. But most learner drivers would probably admit that they don’t need ridiculous rev power. Besides, Aygo’s performance is optimal for driving around town.

The car stays on the calmer side even at motorway speeds. At lower speeds, it boasts an impressively tight turning circle of around 10 meters - more than enough for U-turns and city parking. Be careful when making the turns if you’re unfamiliar with Aygo’s top-heavy nature. When designing the small engine, Toyota aimed at better combustion efficiency and exhaust flow optimisation. Likely, you won’t need advanced customisations, which are too pricey to justify the upgrade. Insurance-wise, all cars in the Aygo range are in group six.

Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is an all-rounder, allowing learner drivers to drive comfortably on various roads. All trims come with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and two optional electric motors. In total, they generate 114 hp and ensure moderate acceleration.

The ride on the Yaris is firm but never becomes too fractious or uncomfortable. The sportier trims are even firmer, so new drivers should stick to the Icon and Design trims. The model feels steady and manoeuvrable at twists and turns, never making it too hard to handle.

Low emissions ensure a reduced benefit-in-kind tax rate. Plus, owners will enjoy relatively inexpensive insurance premiums and impressive fuel efficiency.

Citroen C1

The C1 is an affordable car, partly at the expense of a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine generating 71 hp. But as we’ve mentioned a few times, a learner driver doesn’t need ramped-up accelerations and lightning speeds. These are cars for learner drivers who stay in town or travel over shorter distances.

The ride is not exceptionally smooth over potholed city roads, but it doesn’t significantly affect the overall ride comfort. Luckily for those struggling with parking or constantly manoeuvring tight U-turns, the C1 makes these tasks quick and pleasant. It’s incredibly agile at lower speeds. For example, when you’re tactically moving in and out of traffic. The model’s insurance premiums are reassuringly low, and the overall running costs are relatively low.

Peugeot 207

The least powerful 68 hp petrol is a bit sluggish even for learner drivers and their everyday driving. So, we recommend higher specs models - the mid-range 90 hp and up. The 90-hp engine offers decent performance, paired with good fuel efficiency.

In the context of city driving, the steering is light and responsive. The 207 should glide through awkward parking spaces and tight corners with ease. The suspension should absorb most bumps on city roads, but the car is exceptionally comfortable to drive over long distances on the open road.

Insurance premiums will be offered for group 5. Remember that the 207 doesn’t have an excellent economy, so it’s mostly suited for short journeys to work.

Kia Rio

Kia Rio’s entry-level engine (1.2-litre petrol, 83 hp) feels out of its depth on the motorway. It can be enough for some city-first learner drivers. Alternatively, you can go for the next model - 1.0 T-GDi, 99 hp to feel more comfortable at higher speeds. The mild-hybrid technology gives even more power, but we’ll let you decide whether the outlay is worth the higher price.

Driving is a bit rough, which you feel most noticeable through the base of your seat at lower speeds. The ride smooths out at motorway speeds, though. The steering is accurate and feel-free.

The fuel economy and emissions are fairly the same across different engine setups. While Rios are not the cheapest cars, they shouldn’t be expensive to fuel or maintain.

Nissan Micra

The newer Micra range relies on the 1.0-litre turbocharged engine. But if you’re shopping around for used cars, you’ll also be able to find the non-turbo 1.0-litre petrol unit and the 1.5-litre diesel one. While you’re getting your fair share of practice on the road, you may want to opt for the lower-end engines.

The ride feels slightly fidgety and becomes smoother with speed. But what’s probably more important for learner drivers is that the steering has enough weight to it without being too stiff. Light controls and good visibility are essential for parking. The rear-view camera and active park assist are optional but incredibly helpful.

One of the best things about the Micra is that it sits at group 1 insurance, making it cheaper than any other car on the list.

Ford Ka

The Ford Ka is one of the most affordable cars on the market and arguably one of the best cars for easy driving. Consider this motorised teapot if you’ve always wanted something funky, brisk, and economical. The model is available in two engines (petrol and diesel), but the brand is trading the release of a hybrid.

The small size performs well in all types of urban settings. Another perk for learner drivers is a raised seating position, which offers a wide-angle view in all directions. For more assistance (e.g., when trying to slot into tight spaces), the car has been fitted with big mirrors. You can customise the suspension and steering tuning for maximum accuracy and composure.

The road tax is cheap, but the fuel economy could be better.

Volkswagen Up

Finally, we have the VW Up, which fits all the requirements of a city car for a young driver. The model is offered in two petrol engine options and a hybrid. The base model is fitted for inner-city driving, and the turbo engine fills the power gap on the motorway.

You’ll have no issue staying controlled over obstacles and bumps, which feel more sophisticated than rivals from the same class. Tidy body control is also to be expected from a car of this size. The much-needed features for learner drivers in the city - like cruise control and park sensors - are available for an extra price.

Interestingly, Up models belong to many insurance groups - from group 1 to group 17. So, consider your configuration wisely.

Conclusion

With time, learner drivers get comfortable and confident driving any car. But for the time being, it’s great that you want to get more practice in the right kind of car.

The models listed above are just some of the suitable cars for learner drivers. So, we decided to expand the list and suggest that you consider these twelve, too:

• Volkswagen Golf
• Vauxhall Astra
• Skoda Fabia
• Seat Mii
• Renault Clio
• Mini
• Hyundai i10
• Fiat 500
• Seat Arona
• Kia Picanto
• Ford B-Max
• Dacia Sandero
• Renault Twingo

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