What kind of car should a new driver buy?

After successfully passing the driver’s license exam, a new driver faces the task of buying a vehicle. To ensure the safety of all road users, the car must meet specific criteria. In this article, we’ll share recommendations for choosing your first car, explain which features to look for, review popular brands, and introduce a company that helps people order turnkey cars from the U.S. at an affordable price.

Car Features for a New Driver

To feel confident in any traffic conditions, you need to master basic driving and repair skills. When making a choice, it’s important for a beginner to use common sense and consider how easy the car is to handle and maintain. That’s why cars should have:

a wide selection of replacement parts in case of breakdowns;
increased ground clearance;
a reliable suspension, steering, engine, and transmission;
low repair costs;
easy access to key parts and components;
a wide range of additional systems and features that make driving easier.

When buying a car, we recommend considering the performance characteristics of both new and used vehicles from domestic and foreign manufacturers. Experienced drivers advise choosing a car similar to the one you learned to drive in at first. This will help a new driver get used to traffic conditions in populated areas more quickly.

Choosing a Vehicle: Domestic or Foreign?

Foreign cars are considered more reliable and comfortable. These vehicles are equipped with useful features and systems that simplify and improve driving. As a result, foreign cars are in high demand among Ukrainian drivers thanks to their excellent build quality, long service life, and cutting-edge technologies implemented by professional U.S. engineers during manufacturing.

Affordable Cars for Beginners

Most Ukrainians get their driver’s licenses as soon as they turn 18. However, an expensive car is an unaffordable luxury for young people. They face the pressing need to find a reliable yet affordable first car. Therefore, drivers on a tight budget are advised to consider used cars from the U.S. They are easy to maintain and relatively inexpensive (starting at $6,000).

Top 8 Best Cars for Beginners

We conducted a survey on the best car models for new drivers. As a result, our ranking includes the following brands:

Ford Fusion;
Volkswagen Jetta;
Toyota Auris;
Fiat 500 E;
Kia Rio;
Ford Focus;
Toyota Camry;
Mazda 3.

The ranking was compiled based on clear criteria: ease of handling, affordability of repairs, the number of service centers in Ukraine, and comfort level.

Let’s take a closer look at the specifications of these cars.

Ford Fusion

This powerful car handles all driving conditions with ease and ensures a comfortable ride both in the city and on the open road. This midsize model is designed for the U.S. market. In other countries, this car is better known as the Ford Mondeo. The Fusion was first introduced in 2005. The latest model is built on the fifth-generation Ford Fiesta platform, but unlike the prototype, it is larger.

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

The car combines elements of a station wagon, a hatchback, and a minivan. The available model is equipped with:

a 1.4-liter gasoline engine with 80 l. s. of power;
anti-lock braking system;
power steering;
a reliable immobilizer and airbags.

Depending on the engine type, the Ford delivers between 175 and 352 l. s. Thanks to the soft, adjustable seats, every trip is comfortable and enjoyable.

Volkswagen Jetta

The compact Jetta sedan is one of the most popular models from the German automaker Volkswagen. It is ideal for driving within city limits and between towns. The model has been produced in the U.S. since 1979. The car features an attractive design that combines elegance and modernity. The sculpted lines of the American version give the car a dynamic look. What sets it apart from similar European models like the Polo and Golf is its spacious interior. Thanks to the folding rear seats, you can significantly increase the trunk space.

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

In the U.S., the sixth-generation model is available with gasoline and diesel engines:

with displacements of 1.6 and 2.0 liters;
with power outputs of 115 and 140 l. s.

The Jetta is known for its good handling, a comfortable and well-insulated interior, and a smooth ride. The car features a collision warning system, stability control, rearview cameras, and other useful safety features.

Toyota Auris

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

A compact front-wheel-drive car that has been in production since 2007, specifically designed for Europe. This C-segment hatchback is based on the TNGA GA-C modular platform. The Auris is imported into Ukraine with gasoline engines of various displacements:

1.3 L;
1.4 L;
1.6 L;
1.8 L (hybrid version);
2.0 L

The model is equipped with a ventilated disc brake system. This ensures a smooth ride. Braking is also more effective, despite the car’s impressive weight of 1,190 kg. The rigid independent suspension handles all road irregularities with ease.

The Aurora’s dynamic exterior design is complemented by a spacious, comfortable, and high-quality interior. The comfortable seats are upholstered in leather. The multimedia system is designed to create a pleasant atmosphere in the cabin.

Fiat 500 E

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

This eco-friendly electric car was unveiled in 2012 at an American exhibition center. It was developed by the Italian company Fiat Group. The car, with its retro-futuristic design, is lightweight, dynamic, and highly maneuverable. It:

has a top speed of 72 km/h;
has a torque of 199 N·m;
accelerates to 100 km/h in 9 seconds;
is equipped with an 83 kW motor that meets environmental standards.

The city car has an electric powertrain powered by a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery (24 kWh). Thanks to this, the model can deliver significant power and offers decent acceleration. The model has a range of up to 160 km on a single charge.

Kia Rio

This Korean subcompact model first appeared in Europe in 2000. The latest (fourth) version of the car (2017) combines the advantages of previous generations. The model is based on other popular cars from the Korean brand Kia. As a result, the selection of engines has expanded, and maintenance has become simpler. The company originally positioned the car as the ideal choice for first-time drivers—and it’s hard to argue with that.

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

The vehicle is equipped with a gasoline engine that meets the Euro 5 emissions standard. The engine produces 100 and 123 l. s. The model can accelerate to 100 km/h in just over 10 seconds—depending on the engine type. The car’s interior features a minimalist design with an emphasis on comfort and practicality. Even the standard version of the car includes:

comfortable, adjustable seats;
an information panel with a multimedia system;
enhanced ABS and ESP systems;
reliable suspension and drivetrain.

It is precisely because of these features that many new drivers often choose the Rio as their first car.

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus is a classic car that’s affordable for everyone. Each generation consistently ranks among the best-selling cars. This car is also in high demand among Ukrainians. The fourth generation of the Focus, released in early 2018, features an attractive design, a comfortable interior, and an affordable price. The car is based on the C2 platform.

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

When comparing the first and new versions, one can notice significant changes that have made the model more modern. Among the most striking differences are:

a massive hexagonal grille;
LED headlights;
a convenient gearshift joystick (instead of the usual lever);
aggressive front bumper design;
a panoramic roof;
a spacious interior.

The Ford Focus is available in various trim levels—from base to sport. Depending on the engine type, the car delivers between 85 and 280 l. s.

Toyota Camry

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

The Toyota Camry business-class sedan is the ideal choice for first-time car buyers who value reliable Japanese cars. The latest generation of the model stands out for its TNGA modular architecture, which provides:

a bold, sporty design;
improved handling;
a smooth ride;
superior reliability;
good driving performance;
premium comfort.

Standardization and a lower center of gravity have made the Toyota wider. The manufacturers lowered the hood by 40 mm and reduced its weight, which significantly improved the driver’s visibility. Thanks to its low stance and clean aerodynamic lines, the car now looks like a true sports car.

The model’s steering wheel is equipped with rack-and-pinion electric power steering, which makes handling easier. Passive and active safety systems allow the driver to feel confident in any driving situation.

Mazda 3

This Japanese compact car combines superb design, innovative technology, and maximum comfort. The model is available in two versions: a five-door hatchback and a sedan. The first generation of the Mazda 3 was introduced to the market in 2003, and the latest in 2018. The fourth version of the car retained the strengths of its predecessors and received many useful improvements. The car’s styling has become smoother and more understated, with sharp lines eliminated, and the interior has been significantly simplified according to the “Less is more” principle. As a result, the cabin appears more spacious than in previous generations. Comfortable seats and an intuitive instrument panel create a pleasant environment for the driver and passengers.

What kind of car should a new driver buy?

The Mazda 3 is equipped with the i-Activsense intelligent safety system, which:

monitors blind spots;
brakes automatically when obstacles are detected;
warns of lane departures.

Under the hood is a high-quality engine that delivers smooth and responsive handling. The model also features improved sound insulation.

A Great Deal on a Car from the U.S.

We specialize in importing a variety of used cars from the United States. Our team of professionals will help you find and select your first vehicle at popular American auctions. We carefully inspect and check every car for visible and hidden defects. We’ll arrange for the car you’ve chosen to be shipped to Ukraine, handle customs clearance, and complete the registration process. We strictly adhere to deadlines, deliver cars in proper working order, and take care of all the necessary paperwork.

Buying a vehicle from the U.S. with us is the right choice for new drivers!

Looking for a car? We will select and deliver it to your request: cars in stock in Ukraine, car selection service.

FAQ

We understand your concerns and strive to provide you with the utmost comfort and confidence in the car buying process. For your peace of mind, we provide the following guarantees and measures. Our managers conduct over 8 steps of a thorough vehicle inspection. This includes a video report prior to purchase. This will allow you to find out whether the car was a party to an accident, the number of owners, its service history, the reliability of the seller, etc. All data about the car is provided to the client and, only after its approval, the manager proceeds to the bidding process.

For you, we are ready to make buying a car abroad easy and reliable. We offer you a full range of services, including car selection, paperwork, transportation and customs clearance. Choose the best among new and used cars with our help. We can also help you to restore and repair the imported car.

You save an average of $5,000 or more. Exclusive models and configurations. Transparent history of car operation. With our help you get the car of your dreams in the shortest possible time and with maximum benefit.

We conclude a contract with you, in which all the terms, conditions, deadlines, milestones and payments are spelled out. After signing the contract, the conditions do not change. We inform you about each stage of transportation of your car, provide video reports. All payments are made in stages and sent to the settlement account specified in the contract.

After finding your wishes, the manager sends you several options for the car you applied for in messengers. Before starting cooperation, we sign an agreement with you on the selection of a car and ask you to make a reverse advance payment in national currency equivalent to $ 500. After clarifying and checking the car chosen by the client, we reserve it and buy it in Korea.

After signing the contract for the selection of a car, our company asks you to make a refundable advance payment of $500, which is returned in full before the car is booked. Why is it needed? The Korean market is in great demand not only in Ukraine, but also throughout the world. The best cars are very quickly "taken apart" from sites and auctions. An advance payment is necessary in order to book a car in a timely manner and get the best offer.

For now, Ukrainian ports do not accept cargo, so all our clients' vehicles arrive at the port of Constantia (Romania). Bypassing delays in queues at the border, your vehicle will arrive quickly and without delays.

Car delivery consists of the following components: preparation of export documents and booking a place on a ship (from 2 weeks), land transportation of the car across Korea to the port of departure (up to 3 days), transportation by sea to a European port (from 60 days), delivery from a European port to Ukraine (up to 10 days). In total, delivery takes from 2.5 months.

Yes, it is possible. For example, OTP Bank is ready to provide a loan for the purchase of a car even to clients without official employment - an amount of up to UAH 300,000 can be approved without a certificate of income. The bank considers alternative sources of income and the borrower's credit history. In other cases, if you have an official salary card (especially in PrivatBank), you often do not need to confirm your income - the bank already sees the receipt. In any case, Bex Auto will help you collect the optimal package of documents or get by with a minimum number of them.

As a rule, the decision is made very quickly. Our partners have made the process as efficient as possible: PrivatBank pre-approves the loan a few minutes after submitting the application - you will find out the result almost instantly. OTP Bank in most cases issues the final decision and transfers the money within one day. In general, buying a car on credit through Bex Auto usually takes 1-2 days, including choosing a car, submitting an application and signing the contract.

The conditions vary depending on the bank and the program. OTP Bank does not have a CASCO requirement at all - you save on insurance, the bank does not oblige to insure the collateral, since the loan is actually unsecured. At PrivatBank, CASCO is required as standard for new cars, but with a down payment of 20-30%, insurance is not a mandatory condition (although the bank itself advises to insure the car voluntarily). Oschadbank always requires full CASCO, since it lends new cars with collateral. Thus, the presence of mandatory CASCO depends on the selected program: if you want to avoid insurance costs, consider options with a high down payment or a loan from OTP Bank.

Yes, you can repay your car loan early at any time without any penalties. All Bex Auto partner banks – OTP, Privat and Oschad – do not charge fees for early repayment. If you have the opportunity to repay the remaining loan early (partially or in full), do so without hesitation: the overpayment will be transferred only for the actual term of use of the borrowed funds. No penalties or hidden conditions – you save on interest by repaying the debt early.

Yes, of course. Bex Auto helps you buy a used car on credit as successfully as a new one. In particular, our partner OTP Bank specializes in used car loans - there are no restrictions on the brand, year of manufacture or mileage of the car. Moreover, no collateral or CASCO is required for such transactions, which distinguishes OTP's offer from classic car loans. You can choose a car at a car lot, a car dealership or even from a private seller - the bank will give you money to buy it. We also accompany the execution of the purchase and sale transaction and registration of the car in your name. If you want to import a car from abroad, we will offer a special program for a grace period (the first months without interest) - this allows you to calmly wait for your car and not pay extra.

The South Korean market is very full of diesel cars. The most popular cars among our clients are: Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Fe, Renaut (Samsung) Koleos (QM6), Hyundai Palisade, KIA Carnival, KIA Sorento, BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi A6, Audi Q7, Volvo XC60, Volvo XC90. Our manager will select the best car option for you according to your wishes.

The most popular electric cars from Korea among our clients are: Hyundai Ioniq 5, KIA EV6, Hyundai Kona, KIA Niro, Hyundai Ioniq 6, KIA EV9, Chevrolet Bolt. Also, the Korean sites are full of imported cars, such as Mercedes EQC, BMW IX, Audi E-Tron, Tesla Model S and others. The biggest advantage of electric cars from Korea is that the charging ports are identical to European ones, so you can quickly charge the car in any situation without any adapters.

Yes, indeed, official dealers have a wide range of Korean cars on the Ukrainian market, but they differ from Korean ones. For example, in Korea, the trim levels are very "rich". For the price that you will buy the maximum trim level from the official dealers, in Korea it will be the basic one. And the fact that in the Korean top trim level it is impossible to even imagine... Engine modifications, for example, Hyundai Tucson in Ukraine is offered only with a 2.0 l petrol engine, or a 1.6 l hybrid, where in Korea you can choose: 1.6 turbo petrol, 2.0 diesel, 1.6 hybrid. Also in Korea, there are many cars that have factory LPG, which is very economical to operate.

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