Criteria for choosing a young driver's license car
To choose the ideal car for a young driver, several criteria need to be taken into account.
First and foremost, safety is paramount. Opt for a car equipped with safety devices such as airbags, ABS braking and driving aids like ESP. In short, virtually all vehicles launched after 2000 will be equipped with these features.
Young drivers often have a limited budget, so look for a car that's affordable to maintain. Used cars can be an interesting option, but check their general condition and maintenance history before making a purchase.
Fuel consumption is also an important factor, especially for young drivers who may be under financial constraints. Opt for a car with reasonable fuel consumption to minimize fuel costs.
Finally, consider your specific needs in terms of size, storage space and functionality. If you plan to carry passengers or luggage frequently, a car with a spacious interior may be preferable. What's more, modern features such as parking aids and speed limiters can make driving more convenient and enjoyable.
In short, when choosing the best car for a young licensee, focus on safety, affordability, fuel consumption, ease of driving and features tailored to your specific needs.
Top brands for a young driver's license car
For young drivers looking for a car to get their license, some brands stand out for their reliability, safety and affordability.
Here are some of the best brands to consider:
Renowned for its reliability and durability, Toyota offers a range of affordable , fuel-efficient cars ideal for new drivers.
With models like the Polo and Golf, Volkswagen offers well-built, comfortable cars equipped with advanced safety technologies.
Honda is renowned for its reliable engines and robust design. The Honda Civic, for example, is often recommended for its safety and handling.
Ford offers a range of versatile and affordable cars, such as the Fiesta, Focus and Ka, that offer good value and a pleasant drive.
Known for its elegant design and sporty driving, Mazda offers cars like the Mazda2 and Mazda3 that deliver a dynamic yet economical driving experience.
Renault offers a variety of models suitable for young drivers, such as the Clio and Twingo, offering a good balance between price, equipment and fuel economy. Be careful to avoid recent (2010-2016) 1.2 PureTech and Tce petrol engines.
With models like the 208 and 2008, Peugeot offers cars with modern features and fuel-efficient engines.
Kia offers affordable , well-equipped cars, such as the Rio and Picanto, with good warranties and resale value.
By choosing one of these reputable brands, you'll generally find a safe, reliable car that suits your budget.
Which engines to avoid?
Here are some more specific examples of engines to avoid, with their names and associated displacements:
Renault: Renault's 1.5 dCi and 1.9 dCi diesel engines have been associated with reliability problems, including turbos and injection systems.
Volkswagen: Volkswagen's TSI engines, such as the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI, have experienced reliability problems, including timing chain problems and turbocharger failures.
Ford: Some Ford EcoBoost engines, such as the 1.0 EcoBoost and 1.6 EcoBoost, can experience reliability problems such as oil leaks and turbo failure.
Peugeot & Citroën: The Peugeot 1.6 BlueHDi and 2.0 BlueHDi diesel engines have been plagued by reliability issues, including pollution problems with particulate filters and injection systems.
By avoiding these specific engines and opting for more reliable, well-established options within each brand, you can ensure a more enjoyable driving experience that's less prone to mechanical problems.
What are the weak points?
Even cars renowned for their reliability can have weak points. For example, models from certain brands may suffer from premature rusting, minor electronic failures or suspensions that weaken over time. However, these faults are often minor compared to the overall benefits of the car's reliability.
Tight budget: low-consumption cars for young drivers
Toyota Yaris
Engine: Petrol, 1.0 or 1.3 liter engine
Fuel consumption: Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 litres/100 km combined cycle
Peugeot 208
Engines: Petrol, 1.6 BlueHDi (diesel)
Fuel consumption: Approximately 4.0 to 5.5 litres/100 km combined cycle for petrol models
Renault Clio
Engines: Petrol, 0.9 TCe
Fuel consumption: Approx. 4.5 to 5.5 litres/100 km combined cycle
Volkswagen Polo
Engine: Petrol, 1.0 MPI or 1.2 TSI
Fuel consumption: Approx. 4.5 to 5.5 litres/100 km combined cycle
Ford Fiesta
Engine: Petrol, 1.0 EcoBoost engine
Fuel consumption: Approx. 4.5 to 5.5 litres/100 km combined cycle
These models offer a good combination of low fuel consumption and affordable purchase price, making them excellent options for a young driver on a tight budget.
Which automatic gearboxes should I avoid for a young car?
Citroën & Peugeot Sensodrive gearbox
Models concerned: Citroën C2, C3, Peugeot 1007 etc.
Potential problems : The Sensodrive gearbox has been subject to reliability problems, including slow or irregular gear changes, as well as electronic failures.
Nissan Continuously Variable Transmission(CVT)
Models affected: Nissan Micra, Qashqai, Juke, etc.
Potential problems : Nissan CVTs have been associated with reliability problems, including excessive vibration, unusual noise and premature failure.
Renault robotized gearbox(EDC)
Models concerned: Renault Clio, Captur, Megane, etc.
Potential problems: Some owners have reported reliability problems with Renault EDC gearboxes, including sudden or unpredictable gear changes, as well as general malfunctions.
Ford 6-speed automatic transmission
Models affected: Ford Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, etc.
Potential problems : Ford 6-speed automatic transmissions have been associated with reliability problems, including abrupt or hesitant gear changes, as well as electronic failures.
It's important to note that gearbox reliability can vary depending on a number of factors, including regular maintenance, driving style and driving conditions. Before buying a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission, it's a good idea to ask if it's ever been flushed (every 90,000 - 120,000 km).
Models to avoid for young drivers on a tight budget
Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Mito
Reasons: Alfa Romeo cars can be expensive to maintain due to the complexity of their engines and their reputation for electrical and electronic faults.
Audi A3, A4
Audi vehicles can have high maintenance costs due to the price of spareparts and the specialized labor required for repairs.
BMW 1 Series, 3 Series
Although BMW is renowned for its performance, maintenance and repair costs can be high, which can be difficult to manage for a young driver on a tight budget.
Jaguar X-Type, XF
Jaguars can be expensive to maintain due to their high-end nature and reputation for electrical and electronic problems.
Land Rover Freelander, Discovery Sport
Land Rover vehicles can be costly to maintain due to their mechanical and electronic complexity, as well as their propensity to encounter reliability problems.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class, C-Class
Mercedes-Benzes can be costly to maintain due to their high-end nature and the need for specific, expensive spare parts.
Volvo S40, V40
Although Volvo is renowned for its safety, maintenance costs can be high due to the need for specific spare parts and the specialized labor required for repairs.
Bear in mind that these vehicles, even if well-maintained, are generally prone to breakdowns after 150,000 km.
If, however, you absolutely must buy a vehicle of this make, give preference to a vehicle sold by a professional (with warranty) and with a complete maintenance booklet.
Engines to avoid for a young car
Renault 1.2 TCe
Vehicles: Renault Clio, Captur
Reasons: This turbo petrol engine has been associated with reliability problems, including turbo failure and premature engine failure.
Peugeot / Citroën 1.6 THP
Vehicles: Peugeot 208, 308, Citroën C4, DS3
Reasons: This turbocharged petrol engine has been criticized for its propensity for timing chain problems, overheating and power loss.
Volkswagen / Audi 1.4 TSI
Vehicles: Volkswagen Golf, Polo, Audi A3
Reasons : Although widely used, this turbo gasoline engine has been subject to timing chain problems, overheating and power loss, particularly in early versions.
Ford 1.0 EcoBoost
Vehicles: Ford Fiesta, Focus
Reasons: Despite its popularity, this turbo gasoline engine has encountered reliability problems, including overheating, timing beltbreakage and cooling system failure.
BMW N47
Vehicles: BMW 1 Series, 3 Series
Reasons: This diesel engine has been subject to timing chain, turbo and cooling system problems, resulting in costly repairs.
Mercedes-Benz OM651 (4-cylinder CDI)
Vehicles: Mercedes A-Class, C-Class
Reasons: This diesel engine has experienced reliability problems, including timing chain and injector problems.
Fiat 1.3 Multijet
Vehicles: Fiat Punto, 500, Grande Punto
Reasons: This diesel engine has been associated with reliability problems, including injector and particulate filter.
Young driver's cars: virtually unbreakable models
Toyota Yaris (1999-2005)
Engine: Toyota 1.0 VVT-i
Reasons: Renowned for its robustness and reliability, this petrol engine equips the first-generation Toyota Yaris and delivers good fuel economy.
Honda Civic (1996-2000)
Engine: Honda D-Series (D15B7, D16Y7)
Reasons: Honda D-Series engines are known for their longevity and low maintenance costs. They were fitted to the Honda Civic of the late 1990s and offer a good combination of performance and efficiency.
Volkswagen Golf IV (1997-2003)
Engine: Volkswagen 1.9 TDI (diesel engine)
Reasons : Volkswagen's 1.9 TDI diesel engine is renowned for its strength and durability. It equips the Golf IV and offers good fuel economy and sufficient power for everyday driving.
Ford Fiesta (2002-2008)
Engine: Ford Duratec 1.25
Reasons: Ford's Duratec 1.25 engine is reliable and fuel-efficient. It equips the Ford Fiesta and offers a pleasant drive with reasonable maintenance costs.
Peugeot 206 (1998-2009)
Engine: Peugeot TU5JP4
Reasons : Peugeot's TU5JP4 engine is renowned for its robustness and simplicity. It equips the Peugeot 206 and offers good reliability and reasonable fuel consumption.
Opel Corsa C (2000-2006)
Engine: Opel Z10XE, Z12XE
Reasons: Opel's Z10XE and Z12XE engines are renowned for their reliability and durability. They equip the Opel Corsa C and offer economical driving with moderate maintenance costs.
These models are renowned for their sturdiness and longevity, so go for it!
What's the minimum price for a young driver's car?
For young drivers, we recommend a budget of at least 3,000 to 8,000 euros for the purchase of a used car in good condition and free of charge.
At this price, it's possible to find reliable, safe models with modern safety features and reasonable fuel consumption.
Private vs Pro: where to buy a young driver's car?
Individual :
Advantages: Possibility of negotiating the price, often cheaper than with a professional, possibility of finding unique or customized models.
Disadvantages: Fewer warranties in the event of a problem, risk of coming across unscrupulous sellers, not always a complete maintenance history.
Professional :
Advantages: Cars often serviced and guaranteed, security of purchase thanks to an automotive professional, financing options.
Disadvantages: Prices generally higher than with a private individual, less room for negotiation.
In short, if you want to play it safe, buy from a professional.
Between private individuals, you can still find good deals, but assume that there will potentially be costs involved, at the time of purchase or even after several hundred or thousands of kilometers have been driven!
Petrol or diesel: what are the advantages and disadvantages of a young driver's car?
It's up to you to decide how much you want to drive it!
Petrol cars offer a smoother, quieter ride. However, diesel engines generally offer better fuel economy.
Finally, with growing concerns about emissions and restrictions in some cities, diesel cars may become less attractive to young drivers.
Is mileage important for a young driver's car?
Absolutely, mileage is a crucial factor when buying a car for a young driver.
On the one hand, low mileage may seem attractive, but it's important to note that vehicles that have been driven little may present age-related problems, such as dry seals and deteriorating rubber parts.
These problems may require costly repairs in the long term.
On the other hand, a high-mileage but well-maintained vehicle with a full service history can be a wise choice.
A reliable vehicle with many miles on the clock and regular maintenance can often be more reliable and less expensive to buy.
Ultimately, it's crucial to look closely at the vehicle's maintenance history and overall condition, rather than focusing solely on mileage.
How to maintain a young car?
To maintain a young car, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations on a regular basis.
This includes regular oil changes (every 10,000 km), replacement of air filters (about every 20,000 km) and fuel filters (every 80,000 km), brake system checks, coolant and power steering fluid levels , and replacement of wearing parts such as brake pads and tires.
Regular cleaning of the vehicle's interior and exterior is also recommended to maintain its value and appearance.
How to choose insurance for a young driver's car?
Choosing the right insurer for your new car is crucial to ensuring your safety and peace of mind on the road.
An effective option is to use online insurance comparators.
These tools make it quick and easy to compare offers from different insurance companies according to your specific needs.
By entering a few details about your vehicle and driver profile , you can obtain personalized quotes in just a few minutes.
This enables you to find the insurance that offers the best value for money in terms of coverage and rates.
By using an insurance comparator, you can save time and time while guaranteeing adequate protection for your young car.
Here are just a few examples of insurance comparators: Les Furets, Le Lynx and Le Comparateur Assurance.
Young driver's car, FAQ
Which brands are the most reliable for a young car?
Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Volkswagen. They are renowned for their reliability, durability and low maintenance costs, making them popular choices for novice drivers.
Which brands to avoid for a young driver on a tight budget?
For a young licensee car on a tight budget, it's generally advisable to avoid brands known for their high maintenance costs or lack of reliability. Here are some high-end brands to avoid: BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Audi.
What price should you expect for young driver's license insurance?
The average price of insurance for a young car depends on several factors, including the driver's age, driving experience, the type of car and the level of cover chosen. In general, you can expect to spend between 600 and 1100 euros a year on third-party insurance for a young car.
How do you inspect a young driver's car?
When inspecting a young car, it's important to check the general condition of the car, including exterior, interior, engine, brakes, suspension and tires. It's also a good idea to ask for a service history and take the car for a test drive to assess its performance.
At what price can you find a reliable young driver's licence car?
Starting at around 3,000 euros, you can find a reliable young license car on the second-hand market. However, it's important to take into account potential maintenance and repair costs when buying a car at this price.
In general, how much does it cost to maintain a young driver's car each year?
The annual cost of servicing a young driver's license car varies according to a number of factors, including the age of the car, its make and its mileage. On average, you can expect to spend between 500 and 1000 euros a year on regular maintenance for a young car.
Are German brands reliable for young drivers?
German brands such as Volkswagen, BMW and Audi are renowned for their reliability and build quality, but you should be aware that maintenance is expensive, generally for vehicles that have passed the 150,000 km mark.
What's the maximum horsepower for a young driver's car?
There's no rule, but in general, power is limited to around 142hp (about 7hp taxable) for novice drivers.
