The Best New First Car in 2024: Because You Can’t Drive Your Mom’s Hatchback Forever

Ah, the first car. A rite of passage for every young driver. You pass your test, head to the dealership with a wallet thinner than your patience, and expect to leave in something that screams, “I’ve made it,” when in reality, you’re more likely to leave in something that wheezes “I’m barely surviving.” But fear not, because in 2024, the world of first cars is far more exciting than it used to be. Gone are the days of rattling old rust buckets and wobbly clutches. Now, you can buy a brand-new car that’s safe, reliable, and—dare I say—actually fun to drive.

So, what’s the best new first car in 2024? Well, let’s dive in, shall we?

1. Honda Civic: The Sensible, Yet Surprisingly Satisfying Choice

Now, I can already hear the groans from the back of the room. “A Honda Civic? Really? That’s what my mum drives!” Yes, but hear me out. The 2024 Civic is about as far from your mum’s car as you can get without donning a leather jacket and pretending you’re in Fast & Furious.

For starters, it doesn’t look like a melted jellybean anymore. Honda’s given it sharper lines, a more aggressive stance, and an interior that feels like it was designed by people who actually care. And it’s got a turbocharged engine that makes just enough noise to remind you that, yes, you are in fact driving, not just floating around in an appliance.

But the best bit? It’s bulletproof. You can drive it into the ground, and it will still ask for more. It’s like the Labrador of cars—loyal, dependable, and it doesn’t care if you occasionally forget to feed it.

2. Toyota GR86: Because You Want Fun, Not a Fridge on Wheels

If you’re the type of person who thinks driving should be fun, then allow me to introduce you to the Toyota GR86. This is not your typical first car. No, this is for the aspiring petrolhead who doesn’t mind spending a bit more in exchange for a car that can do more than just get you from point A to point B.

The GR86 is a proper sports car. Rear-wheel drive, manual gearbox (though you can have an automatic if you’re feeling particularly lazy), and an engine that sings when you push it. It’s the car you dream about as a teenager—the one you imagine taking on twisty roads with the windows down, pretending you’re in a Top Gear film sequence.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But Albion, won’t a car like that be expensive to insure?” Well, yes, probably. But that’s the price you pay for something that actually makes your heart beat faster. The GR86 is a car for someone who’s more interested in apexes than parking spaces.

3. Hyundai Kona: For Those Who Want an SUV but Don’t Need One

Now, if you’re the sort of person who likes the idea of driving an SUV but doesn’t actually need to drive over mountains or tow a caravan, the Hyundai Kona is probably more your speed. It’s one of those “compact crossovers,” which basically means it’s a hatchback that’s had a few protein shakes.

The Kona has just enough ride height to make you feel like you’re driving something substantial, but without the fuel-guzzling downsides of a massive SUV. It’s got loads of tech too—touchscreens, adaptive cruise control, even lane-keeping assist, which is great if you find yourself veering into ditches because you were too busy fiddling with the air conditioning.

And because it’s a Hyundai, it comes with a 10-year warranty. Ten years! That’s enough time to go through a midlife crisis and come out the other side still driving the same car. If reliability is what you’re after, the Kona’s got you covered.

4. Ford Fiesta: Because It’s an Icon and We’ll Miss It

Before you shout, “But Albion, the Fiesta is being discontinued!” let me just say that the 2024 Ford Fiesta is still one of the best first cars out there—and it deserves a final hurrah before it goes the way of the dodo.

The Fiesta has been the first car for generations of drivers, and for good reason. It’s cheap, cheerful, and handles like a go-kart. Even in its final form, it’s still brilliant. Light on its feet, responsive steering, and enough pep in the engine to make zipping around town actually enjoyable. It’s like driving a terrier with a caffeine addiction.

Sure, it’s not the most spacious or luxurious car on the market, but when you’re buying your first car, you’re not looking for space for the whole family. You’re looking for something that’ll make you smile when you take a corner. And the Fiesta does just that.

5. Nissan Leaf: For Those Who Think Gasoline Is for Dinosaurs

Now, if you’re the sort of person who thinks the future is electric and can’t be bothered with all that noisy internal combustion nonsense, the Nissan Leaf is here for you. It’s an electric car that doesn’t cost the Earth—both in terms of emissions and price.

The Leaf is easy to drive, thanks to the instant torque you get from electric motors, and it’s small enough to be nimble in the city. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about fuel costs again. Well, not directly. You’ll just worry about where to charge it, and how long it’ll take, and what happens if you run out of juice on a road trip. But hey, that’s the future!

With decent range and low running costs, the Leaf makes a strong case as the best new first car for eco-conscious drivers. Just don’t expect it to give you the same thrill as a GR86.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

If you’re looking for the best all-around first car, the Honda Civic is the obvious choice. It’s reliable, affordable, and has just enough fun factor to keep things interesting. Plus, it won’t break the bank when it comes to insurance and running costs.

But if you’ve got a bit more cash and want to actually enjoy driving, then go for the Toyota GR86. It’s not the most practical, but it’ll put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

For those who want practicality and a bit of style, the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Leaf offer modern tech and efficiency in a small, manageable package.

And finally, if you want to say you owned a piece of history, grab a Ford Fiesta before it disappears forever. You won’t regret it.

In 2024, you’ve got options. So get out there, pick the car that fits your style, and enjoy the open road—just remember to check the insurance rates first.