Top Cars for New Drivers in 2025: Safe, Affordable, and Stylish Picks
There’s nothing quite like getting behind the wheel of a car and driving for the first time. We can help you make the first car purchase easier by providing you a list of the best cars for new drivers in 2025. For all driver types that value safety, or price, or even just a lot of style, we present compact sedans, hatches, and hybrids for consideration.
What Makes a Car Great for New Drivers
A few must-haves when looking for a new car for a budding driver:
Safety Features - Advanced driver assistance amenities, such as lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, can introduce steps to ensure safety.
Maneuverability - New driver will want a car that is easy to handle, small in size or at least easy to maneuver.
Price - New drivers need to price fuel consumption and maintenance.
Reliability - New drivers don need to come into the mechanics for repairs.
The Best Cars for New Drivers in 2025
1. 2025 Honda Civic
What makes it great:
The Honda Civic is compact, affordable, and dependable. The Civic is a staple vehicle for new drivers. The 2025 model of the Civic is impressive, with its safety features and higher gas mileage.
Highlight features:
Hondas Sensing system is an extensive safety system
39 mpg highway
Today’s shape with ample interior space
2. 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
What makes it great:
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is great for a new driver who is environmentally responsible. The Corolla hybrid provides remarkable problems free mileage.
Notable Features:
Great fuel efficiency (~53 MPG combined)
Toyota Safety Sense for added safety
Compact size, good for city driving
3. 2025 Hyundai Elantra
Why it Stands out:
Affordable and full of features, the Elantra gives style and tech all rolled into one for the tech-savvy new driver.
Notable Features:
Standard lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning
Bold, futuristic design
Available Hybrid for fuel-efficiency
4. 2025 Subaru Impreza
Why it Stands out: All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on the Impreza, giving a level of control not found in front or rear-wheel drive vehicles. This is a good fit for anyone dealing with rougher driving conditions.
Notable Features:
Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
Great crash-test ratings
Compact and versatile
5. 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback
Why it Stands out: Stylish, sporty, and very responsive; the Mazda3 makes driving fun without sacrificing practicality.
Notable Features:
Standard all-wheel drive for better traction
Great materials and attention to detail when designing the interior
Compact but spacious
6. 2025 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range
Why it Stands out: If you're going from gas to electric, the Tesla Model 3 gives first-time drivers a chance to experience the technology with zero emissions.
Notable Features:
Autopilot as a driver assist feature
Long range battery with fewer charging stops
Minimalist cabin with a future-like feel
