First car = big decision. Whether you’re a P-plater looking to cruise or a parent trying to find the sweet spot between “safe enough to sleep at night” and “cool enough to actually drive,” Carbee has you covered. Here’s our no-nonsense guide to cars that tick all the boxes without demolishing your savings.
The Criteria
We’re focusing on cars that nail the basics:
- Won’t destroy your bank account (or your parents’)
- Actually reliable (because roadside assistance isn’t a personality trait)
- Safe (because, duh)
- Decent street cred (but nothing that’ll spike your insurance)
Top Picks
Mazda CX-3
The Urban All-Rounder
- Vibe: Compact SUV that doesn’t scream “my parents bought this”
- Why You’ll Love It: Zippy to drive, easy to park, feels more expensive than it is
- Reality Check: Back seat’s tight (sorry, tall friends), but front seats are living room comfy
- Pro Tip: Earlier models give you more options (AWD if you’re heading to the snow, diesel if you’re doing big km)
Honda Jazz
The Sneaky Space Champion
- Vibe: Like a Tardis – looks small, fits everything
- Secret Weapon: Those magic seats aren’t just marketing – they actually make fitting your mate’s drum kit possible
- Best Bit: The 1.5L engine has enough pep to not be embarrassing
- Perfect For: Anyone who needs to haul stuff but doesn’t want an actual hauler
Ford Focus
The Driver’s Choice
- Vibe: European handling without the European pricetag
- Under The Hood: Even the base engine’s got grunt
- Why It’s Great: Actually fun to drive (unlike some other P-plate favorites)
- Hot Tip: The newer 1.5L three-cylinder turbo is a surprise banger
Holden Trax
The Practical Surprise
- Vibe: Chunky SUV that’s easy on the wallet
- Best Bit: Heaps of space without the huge footprint
- Tech Win: Early adopter of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Pro Tip: The 1.4L turbo is the sweet spot – more grunt, not much more thirst
Toyota C-HR
The Style Icon
- Vibe: Looks expensive, isn’t (relatively speaking)
- Safety Game: Strong as, perfect for nervous parents
- Engine Options: 1.2L turbo or hybrid (for those long drives between servo stops)
- Reality Check: Those cool rear door handles might confuse your nan
Lexus CT200h
The Fancy But Practical One
- Vibe: Luxury badge without the luxury running costs
- Secret Sauce: It’s basically a Prius in a party dress (that’s a good thing)
- Perfect For: When you want to flex at the servo but still afford the fuel
- Parent Appeal: Toyota reliability with Lexus badge
Hyundai Veloster
The “Is It A Sports Car?” Car
- Vibe: Sports car looks, regular car insurance
- Clever Bit: Three doors, but make it fashionable
- Engine Talk: Non-turbo = friend to your insurance premium
- Perfect For: When you want something spicy but your parents want something sensible
Kia Rio
The Budget-Friendly Boss
- Vibe: Doesn’t look cheap, but is cheap (to buy and run)
- Best Bit: Still has warranty left if it’s under seven years old
- GT-Line: Adds some spice without adding scary insurance premiums
- Perfect For: When you need your money for other things (like, you know, life)
Skoda Fabia
The Clever Alternative
- Vibe: European without the attitude
- Cool Features: Umbrellas in the doors (seriously)
- Engine: That 1.0L three-cylinder turbo hits above its weight
- Perfect For: Standing out without showing off
Subaru Impreza
The All-Weather Friend
- Vibe: Practical with a side of cool
- Unique Selling Point: AWD without the SUV ‘tax’
- Perfect For: Snow trips, beach runs, or just rainy Tuesday mornings
- Parent Appeal: Safety reputation that’ll help them sleep at night
Pro tips when buying
- Insurance Check: Get quotes BEFORE you fall in love with a car
- Service History: Previous owner was a spreadsheet nerd? Good thing
- Test Drive: Bring a friend or parent who knows cars (and won’t judge your parking)
- Features: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are more useful to you than fancy rims
Bottom Line
Your first car doesn’t need to be your forever car. Focus on something reliable, safe, and decent to drive. Save the dream garage for when you’re not paying P-plate insurance premiums.
Remember: The coolest feature of any first car is the freedom it gives you. Whether that’s in a Jazz that can fit your entire life or a Veloster that makes you smile every time you look at it, pick what works for YOUR life, not your Instagram feed.