First-Time Buyer

More About the First-Time Buyer Driver

The First Timer deserves a vehicle that doesn't punish you with surprise maintenance bills or insurance premiums that rival rent. The Hyundai Elantra is a standout first car: sharp styling that doesn't look entry-level, a tech-packed cabin, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty that lets you sleep at night. The Kia Forte matches it with similar value and a slightly different design approach.

The Honda Civic is the perennial recommendation for a reason: it drives better than it needs to, holds its value like nothing else in the class, and runs for 200,000 miles without drama. The Toyota Corolla is the safe bet - the most reliable nameplate in automotive history with fuel economy that keeps your gas budget in check. The Mazda3 is the first car for the person who cares about how it drives, with an interior that looks and feels a class above.

The Hyundai Venue and Kia Seltos are the crossover options for First Timers who want a higher ride height. The Nissan Sentra rounds it out with a comfortable ride and competitive pricing. Your first car should start a love affair with driving, not a relationship with a repair shop.