The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Just Got Your License

If you are a new driver, congratulations on getting your license. Now, you need to think about what type of vehicle to buy. Ideally, you’ll choose a used car that isn’t overly expensive, and is reliable and safe while still being fun to drive.

With the new driver in mind, we have evaluated several used vehicles, and our choices are the Honda Fit, Mazda3, Toyota Tacoma, Hyundai Elantra Coupe, and Subaru Forester.

  • Honda Fit: Honda has long been known for small cars that are reliable, economical and still fun to drive. The Fit is remarkably roomy for a micro, and with the rear folding seats, you can actually carry quite a bit of cargo. If you’re moving to a college dorm, this is a great feature.

  • Mazda3: The Mazda3 is safe, reliable and affordable. It performs well in crash tests, and delivers significant fuel economy. The interior is very stylish, so if you like the look of a more expensive vehicle, but you’re on a budget, a used Mazda3 could be the perfect choice.

  • Toyota Tacoma: If you prefer a truck, but don’t want something quite as big as a Tundra or an F-150, the Tacoma is a great choice for a new driver. It’s not so big as to feel overwhelming, and you can park it easily. The Tacoma also shares the Toyota reputation for reliability.

  • Hyundai Elantra Coupe: You may as well enjoy an impractical car while you can, before you end up with kids and responsibilities. This stylish car is well-built and comfortable, and serves the main purpose of a coupe, which is basically to look good. You’ll like it.

  • Subaru Forester: Every Subaru, with the exception of the BRZ, features all-wheel drive. This little SUV goes pretty much anywhere you want to go, handles well in bad weather, and drives more like a car than an SUV, which makes it ideal for new drivers.

Every new driver is a bit different. Whether you prefer a zippy (but not too zippy - remember, you’re a new driver) little car, an attractive coupe, or a sturdy truck you’ll find the right vehicle for you on this list.


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Jermaine

25 years of experience
382 reviews
Jermaine
25 years of experience
Dodge Durango V6-3.6L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Silver Spring, Maryland
Awesome mechanic! Very reliable !! Awesome personality! Explained everything and now I feel less stressed.
Hyundai Ioniq - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Chevy Chase, Maryland
Jermaine was very friendly, efficient and professional. He kindly explained to me those things that did not score well in the service report, so that it didn't come as a surprise, and I would know what to do about it.

Caz

18 years of experience
146 reviews
Caz
18 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz GLA250 L4-2.0L Turbo - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Woodstock, Georgia
Caz was extremely knowledgeable, personable and provided excellent service. He was on time for the appointment and answered and explained everything I asked concerning my vehicle. I will definitely use the company again and I would love to have Caz as my mechanic! Excellent!
Mercedes-Benz S550 - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Mableton, Georgia
Caz Arrived on time much earlier than scheduled. He was very professional in inspecting the car and made excellent recommendations.

Brian

19 years of experience
138 reviews
Brian
19 years of experience
Lexus RX350 V6-3.5L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Brian was very informational and knowledgeable about the Inspection. He throughly inform me what issues on vehicle. Great Mechanic !!!
Ford Transit-350 HD - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - McDonough, Georgia
Great service. Honest , respectful and truly cares about making sure you get the best options possible at an affordable price. Finding a mechanic you can trust is rare. I highly recommend Brain.

Jay

24 years of experience
262 reviews
Jay
24 years of experience
Honda CR-V L4-2.4L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Glendale Heights, Illinois
Jay did a great job! Excellent at taking time to explain things about your car. And provided sound recommendation on repair. Courteous and responsive. I would definitely recommend Jay!
BMW 535i xDrive - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Des Plaines, Illinois
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