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Audi A1

Beginner Cars – a Guide for Your First Car

Your first car is a very special step toward mobile freedom. But new drivers in particular are faced with many questions: Which car is a good first car? How much should a beginner's car cost? And which models are cheap to insure? In this guide, you will learn what criteria a good beginner's car should meet, which affordable models are popular, and what is particularly important when buying.

 

What Makes a Good Beginner Car?

Not every vehicle is automatically suitable for new drivers. Important criteria include:
Affordable purchase price: Many new drivers are looking for beginner cars under €5,000.
Low insurance costs: Especially important for young drivers—there are special low-cost cars available for beginners.
Reliability: Models that are less prone to repairs and have inexpensive spare parts.
Easy to operate: Automatic cars for beginners can make it easier to get started.
Safety: Airbags, ABS, and ESP should be available, even in older used cars.
 

 

Top 10 Beginner Cars – Reliable, Affordable & Safe

VW Polo

  • Classic for new drivers
  • Low insurance costs, easy to operate
  • Very good spare parts availability

Opel Corsa

  • Inexpensive to purchase
  • Spare parts are inexpensive and readily available
  • Compact size, ideal for the city

Ford Fiesta

  • Reliable and inexpensive to maintain and insure
  • Widely available on the used car market

Toyota Yaris

  • Very reliable, low repair costs
  • Even older models are well equipped

Hyundai i20

  • Modern design, solid technology
  • Affordable purchase price and maintenance costs

Seat Ibiza

  • Sporty, yet affordable
  • Shares technology with the VW Polo, therefore offering similar advantages

Skoda Fabia

  • Practical, reliable, and very suitable for everyday use
  • Affordable spare parts thanks to VW technology

 Renault Clio

  • Affordable on the used car market
  • Small, agile, and ideal for beginners

Mazda 2

  • Known for reliability
  • Good driving dynamics and fuel efficiency

Audi A1

  • High quality, but more expensive than other beginner cars
  • Available used from around €9,000
  • Advantage: high safety, good image
     

 

Price Range for Beginner Cars

What is a good price for a first car?
→ Many beginner cars are priced between €3,000 and €7,000, depending on age and condition.
How old should a first car be?
→ A used car that is around 5–10 years old is often a good compromise between price, safety, and reliability.

 

Insurance for Your First Car

Insurance plays a major role when buying your first car, as new drivers usually start in higher classes. Important points:

  • Second car rule: If you are insured through your parents, you can save a lot of money.
  • Small engine: Cheaper insurance and tax.
  • Note the type class: Insurance costs vary greatly depending on the model.

 

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Cars

Which car is good as a first car?
→ Small cars such as the VW Polo, Opel Corsa, or Toyota Yaris are ideal: affordable, reliable, and safe

What should I buy as my first car?
→ Vehicles with small engines, low insurance costs, and good spare parts availability are recommended.

Which cars have affordable parts?
→ Models from VW, Opel, or Ford are widely available and offer affordable spare parts.

Is the beginner sign on the car permitted in Germany?
→ Yes, voluntary signs such as “A” are permitted, but not mandatory.

Can you insure two cars as your first car?
→ No, each policyholder can only register one vehicle as their first car.

Is insurance for a second car more expensive than for a first car?
→ Yes, as a rule, because second cars are often classified higher—unless there are special family rates.

Conclusion – the Best Tips for Beginner Cars

A good beginner car does not have to be expensive. The key factors are a low price, low insurance costs, reliability, and safety. Whether you are looking for a beginner car under €5,000 or a slightly newer model, if you estimate the costs realistically and choose a proven model, you can't go far wrong with your first car.
Even when buying a used car, for example at our car auction, it is worth taking a look at the condition and running costs. This will help new drivers find a car that fits their budget and is both safe and reliable.