Best FIRST CARS to buy in 2024: The ULTIMATE Guide
Purchasing your first vehicle is a big step, whether you’re a teenager ready to hit the road or someone seeking an affordable and reliable vehicle. Generally speaking, when buying a car, you have to consider aspects such as your budget, the performance of the car, durability, and consistency over time.
This article seeks to give an in-depth insight into some top-rated first cars for 2024, looking across a wide range of budgets, from less than $5000 to $20000 above. Whether you’re after something compact, practical, or fun, there’s an option for everyone.
Budget Cars Under $5,000
Mazda 2 (DE Series)
- Years: 2007-2014
- Price Range: $2,000 – $5,000
- Pros: Reliable, fun to drive, good fuel economy, spacious interior for its size.
- Cons: Susceptible to rust, some paint issues, check for wear and tear.
- Recommendation: Focus on finding a well-maintained example rather than prioritizing age or mileage. Rust and paint issues are common, so a thorough inspection is essential. Despite its small size, the Mazda 2 offers ample interior space and is renowned for its reliability.
Ford Fiesta (WS, WT Series)
- Years: 2009-2013
- Price Range: $3,000 – $5,000
- Pros: Stylish design, economical engines, engaging handling.
- Cons: DCT transmission issues in some models, electrical problems.
- Recommendation: Manual transmission models are preferred due to reliability concerns with the DCT automatic. The Fiesta is a lively small car, offering a balance between style and practicality, making it an excellent choice for young drivers.
Honda Jazz (GE Series)
- Years: 2008-2014
- Price Range: $2,500 – $5,000
- Pros: Extremely reliable, spacious interior, magic seats for versatility.
- Cons: Basic interior design, not as stylish as some competitors.
- Recommendation: Look for a model with a full-service history to ensure longevity. The Jazz is renowned for its practicality, thanks to its magic seats that offer exceptional versatility for carrying cargo.
Mid-Range Cars $5,000 to $10,000
Toyota Corolla (E150, E170 Series)
- Years: 2006-2013
- Price Range: $5,000 – $10,000
- Pros: Bulletproof reliability, low running costs, good resale value.
- Cons: Bland design, less engaging to drive.
- Recommendation: Opt for the best condition model with the lowest mileage you can find, ideally with a full-service history. The Corolla’s reputation for dependability makes it a safe bet for first-time buyers.
Mazda 3 (BL, BM Series)
- Years: 2009-2016
- Price Range: $6,000 – $10,000
- Pros: Sporty design, engaging driving experience, strong reliability.
- Cons: Road noise in older models, some interior plastics feel cheap.
- Recommendation: The Mazda 3 offers an excellent balance of performance and practicality. Look for models with a full-service history to ensure continued reliability.
Honda Civic (8th, 9th Gen)
- Years: 2006-2015
- Price Range: $5,000 – $10,000
- Pros: Reliable, spacious, efficient engines.
- Cons: Some models have uncomfortable seats and road noise.
- Recommendation: With its reputation for reliability and efficiency, the Civic is a popular choice. Ensure that the vehicle has been well-maintained and serviced regularly.
Toyota Prius (2nd, 3rd Gen)
- Years: 2004-2015
- Price Range: $5,000 – $10,000
- Pros: Excellent fuel economy, reliable hybrid technology, spacious interior.
- Cons: Bland driving experience, some early models may have battery issues.
- Recommendation: Look for a well-maintained example, preferably from 2012 onwards. The Prius is ideal for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Higher-end cars $10,000 to $20,000
Mazda 3 (BN Series)
- Years: 2014-2018
- Price Range: $10,000 – $20,000
- Pros: Stylish design, engaging driving experience, improved interior quality.
- Cons: Some road noise, and limited rear legroom in hatchback models.
- Recommendation: As a newer model, the BN Series offers a more refined driving experience. Ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained and check for any recalls or common issues.
Toyota Corolla (E180 Series)
- Years: 2013-2018
- Price Range: $10,000 – $20,000
- Pros: Dependable, low running costs, good resale value.
- Cons: Bland design, is not the most exciting to drive.
- Recommendation: Aim for a model with a comprehensive service history and low mileage. The Corolla’s longstanding reputation for reliability makes it a top choice for first-time buyers.
Lexus CT200h
- Years: 2011-2017
- Price Range: $12,000 – $20,000
- Pros: Hybrid technology, luxurious interior, good fuel economy.
- Cons: Limited rear space, less powerful engine.
- Recommendation: The CT200h shares its underpinnings with the Prius but offers a more luxurious experience. Ideal for those seeking a combination of efficiency and luxury.
Honda Accord Euro
- Years: 2008-2013
- Price Range: $8,000 – $15,000
- Pros: Solid build quality, reliable K24 engine, enjoyable driving dynamics.
- Cons: Older models may lack advanced safety features and some oil consumption issues.
- Recommendation: Focus on finding a model with a complete service history to avoid any maintenance surprises. The Accord Euro is known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.
Small SUVs and Crossovers $10,000 and Up
Honda HR-V
- Years: 2015-2021
- Price Range: $15,000 – $25,000
- Pros: Practicality, spacious interior, reliability.
- Cons: Bland design, not as engaging to drive.
- Recommendation: The HR-V is a practical choice for those needing more space than a traditional hatchback offers. Look for a model with a full-service history to ensure reliability.
Hyundai Kona
- Years: 2017-2022
- Price Range: $18,000 – $28,000
- Pros: Modern design, good safety features, economical engines.
- Cons: Some models have limited rear legroom, and the ride can be firm.
- Recommendation: Ensure the model has been well-maintained and has a complete service history. The Kona offers a stylish alternative to more traditional SUVs.
Mazda CX-3
- Years: 2015-2023
- Price Range: $16,000 – $24,000
- Pros: Fun to drive, stylish design, efficient engines.
- Cons: Small boot space, limited rear legroom.
- Recommendation: The CX-3 is a great option for those seeking a stylish and engaging small SUV. Look for models with a manual transmission for added driving fun.
Suzuki Vitara
- Years: 2015-2022
- Price Range: $15,000 – $22,000
- Pros: Reliable, turbo engine option, good off-road capability.
- Cons: Interior feels basic, and some models have limited tech features.
- Recommendation: The Vitara is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and capable small SUV. Opt for the turbo engine for a more enjoyable driving experience.
Toyota C-HR
- Years: 2016-2021
- Price Range: $17,000 – $25,000
- Pros: Bulletproof reliability, distinctive design, good safety features.
- Cons: Slow acceleration, limited rear visibility.
- Recommendation: The C-HR is ideal for those who prioritize reliability and safety. Consider its unique design and practicality when making your decision.
Larger Cars and SUVs
Toyota Camry
- Years: 2006 and newer
- Price Range: $5,000 – $25,000
- Pros: Exceptional reliability, spacious interior, comfortable ride.
- Cons: Bland styling, is not the most exciting to drive.
- Recommendation: Look for hybrid models for enhanced fuel efficiency. The Camry is a perennial favorite among Uber drivers for its comfort and reliability, making it a solid choice for first-time buyers.
Honda Accord
- Years: 2008-2015
- Price Range: $7,000 – $20,000
- Pros: Reliable, spacious, efficient engines.
- Cons: Some models have uncomfortable seats and road noise.
- Recommendation: The Accord offers a spacious and comfortable ride, ideal for those seeking a reliable and practical sedan. Ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained to maximize longevity.
Mazda 6
- Years: 2008-2016
- Price Range: $7,000 – $15,000
- Pros: Sporty design, engaging driving experience, reliable.
- Cons: Road noise in older models, some interior plastics feel cheap.
- Recommendation: The Mazda 6 combines style with practicality, offering an enjoyable driving experience. Look for models with a full-service history to ensure reliability.
Hyundai Santa Fe
- Years: 2012-2019
- Price Range: $10,000 – $25,000
- Pros: Spacious interior, good off-road capability, reliable.
- Cons: Some models have basic interiors and limited tech features.
- Recommendation: The Santa Fe is a versatile SUV, ideal for those needing more space and off-road capability. Opt for models with a diesel engine for improved fuel efficiency.
Kia Sorento
- Years: 2013-2020
- Price Range: $12,000 – $28,000
- Pros: Spacious, seven-seat option, good value for money.
- Cons: Bland interior design, is not the most engaging to drive.
- Recommendation: The Sorento offers great value for money, especially for families needing extra seating. Look for models with a full-service history to ensure reliability.
Toyota RAV4
- Years: 2006 and newer
- Price Range: $8,000 – $25,000
- Pros: Reliable, practical, spacious.
- Cons: Bland styling, is not the most exciting to drive.
- Recommendation: The RAV4 is a practical choice for those needing a reliable and spacious SUV. Focus on finding a well-maintained model with a comprehensive service history.
Conclusion
Selecting the first vehicle involves the consideration of many elements of a financial plan, dependability, usefulness, or personal fancy. The listing of cars within this guideline means that you will find something for everyone no matter what your budget is. Always go for quality and maintenance rather than age and distance covered by a car since one that has undergone proper and regular maintenance can last a longer period.
FURTHER READING
