Table of contents
Introduction
Choosing what is a good first car is a daunting task if you don’t know where to start! It is an exciting decision, but there is so much to consider. Price, reliability, parts availability, fuel economy, and so much more!
While everyone will inevitably feel like they chose the best first car, there definitely are some options that overshadow the rest. In this guide, we will explore our favorite first car options as well as some awesome first trucks and SUVs!
What Are Some Of The Best First Cars?
#1 Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla should come to no surprise here. This vehicle has been a symbol of bulletproof reliability and fuel efficiency. The Corolla may not throw you back into your seat, but it will provide you a comfortable vehicle to get you around town. With its first-class fuel economy and cheap repair costs, its easy on the wallet as well! In my opinion, I prefer the 1990’s to early 2000’s models for sake of low costs and its reliability.
#2 Honda Civic
As stated before in our budget sports car picks, I have a soft spot for Honda civics. The Civic has awesome economy trims that have a history of fuel efficiency and reliability. Its common to see these Civics go for hundreds of thousands of miles with routine maintenance. While I would personally go with an older model Civic, members of my family have had success with different generations of Civics! Fun fact, I learned how to drive stick shift on a Civic!
#3 Ford Ranger
If you need a truck, don’t underestimate this light duty pickup. The Ford Ranger is known to be an unstoppable workhorse! While it won’t win you any drag races (at least in stock form), the Ford Ranger will absolutely get you to your destination. Used by many worldwide, the Ford Ranger has a reputation for insane reliability and utility at a low cost!
#4 Chevrolet Silverado
My personal favorite truck/SUV is the Chevrolet Silverado. While some may think of the high dollar newer models, a great first truck option is a 1999-2006 model with the 5.3L Vortec engine. This truck is known for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles with little issues. My 2005 Silverado was an absolute unit of a truck. Unfortunately, a behemoth of a truck means your gas mileage won’t be the best. However, you can overcome this by keeping the RPMs low and not driving this like a muscle car!
#5 Toyota 4Runner
Last but definitely not least is the Toyota 4Runner. Finding a used 4Runner is not hard and they will survive well past your lifetime. Toyota reliability has its reputation for a reason. The late 90’s model 4Runners are seen still driving on roads worldwide without a hiccup. The resale value on these does keep the price point a little high for the age, but it makes up for it with not spending as much on repair costs. Along with its utility, the 4Runner doubles as an awesome Off-Road toy!
What Makes A Good First Car?
Figuring out what is a good first car always starts with what you need. Are you commuting long distances and need good fuel economy? Or are you a laborer that needs a truck or SUV to haul stuff around? Regardless of your needs, there are plenty of vehicles ready to take on whatever you throw at it!
Along with a vehicle that suits your needs, a good first car needs to be reliable. Being that this is your first car, understanding maintenance is going to be a new world to you. Wouldn’t it be better to not worry about expensive and frequent repair costs? Finding a vehicle with a good reputation for reliability is key. When choosing our list of recommended cars, we looked extensively at reliability ratings for this very reason.
Lastly, it’s best to pick a first car that is affordable. When I mean affordable, I mean purchase price, parts, fuel, and insurance. Some of these can make a car very difficult to own. Look into the costs of insurance especially since certain cars can be very costly to insure.
For more help with the purchasing side, learn more with our used car buyer’s guide!
Conclusion
Regardless of any list, only you can really decide what is a good first car. Take in consideration your needs and finances to ensure you have the right pick. When you find that perfect match, you’re going to have a car that you will never forget. While first cars aren’t usually with you your whole life, the memories you will make in them will live on forever!
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