Congratulations on getting your driver’s license! Now comes the fun part: choosing a car that suits you.
Buying your first car is an exciting milestone, and the good news is that there are plenty of great options available. However, choosing the right one isn’t always easy. With so many models to consider, factors like long-term costs, ease of handling and affordability can make a big difference. Here are some great choices to check out.
Honda Jazz – Practical All-Rounder
The Honda Jazz is a compact hatchback that’s especially popular with first-time drivers, and it’s easy to see why. Its small footprint, excellent fuel efficiency, and strong reliability make it an ideal choice for navigating city roads. It’s also affordable to maintain, which is a big plus for new car owners. Despite its size, the Jazz is impressively spacious inside, thanks to its innovative “Magic Seats” system that lets you fold the rear seats flat or flip them up to fit tall or bulky items. If you need to carry something extra long, you can even fold down the front passenger seat to make it work.
The Honda Jazz is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its category, offering an average fuel consumption of approximately 18–20 km/l.
Beginner drivers in Singapore say that the Honda Jazz is ideal as a first-time car. The visibility is great, and it is a reliable car for daily drives in Singapore. European owners says it has a “fantastic reliability record,” often running trouble-free for many years. Users also love how spacious the car is once you sit in it, despite the car being small from the outside. It’s easy to park and ideal for city driving.
– Price (Honda Jazz Hybrid): From $163,999 (6 June)
– Engine Size: 4-cylinder in-line 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC
– Transmission: CVT (Automatic)
– Power: 130bhp
– Torque: Unknown
– 0–100 km/h: Unknown
– Distributor: Kah Motor
Suzuki Swift – Meet Cute
If you ever get lost in a local polytechnic’s car park, you might find yourself surrounded by a sea of colourful Suzuki Swifts, as many students of legal driving age own one. It’s a popular first car mainly due to its affordability, but it’s also a reliable and easy-to-drive option with great fuel efficiency. Its compact size means you won’t need to stress over tight parking spots or narrow driveways, while also being spacious enough for five to ride together.
Many newer Swift models also come equipped with Suzuki’s support suite, a set of advanced safety and driver assistance features that include lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, making it a smart choice for new drivers.
One Singaporean driver shared that his first car was a Suzuki Swift, calling it “one of the best cars I’ve ever driven,” adding that the affordability and reliability stood out most for him. Another Singaporean driver has also noted that is a ‘crazy good value’ for money and the ride quality is unlike a cheap Japanese car’. They also say that it’s relatively cheap to maintain. A global user shared that their first car had been a Suzuki Swift was bulletproof and others noting that they would purchase another if they had the funds.
The original Swift debuted as the Cultus in Japan, a name derived from the Latin word for ‘adoration.’ Cute!
– Price (Mild Hybrid): From $144,888 (5 June)
– Engine Size: 3-cylinder in-line 12-valve
– Transmission: CVT (Automatic)
– Power: 82bhp
– Torque: 107 Nm
– 0–100 km/h: Unknown
– Distributor: Champion Motors
Toyota Corolla Altis – Oldie but Goodie
Often dubbed an “Uncle Car,” the Toyota Corolla Altis has proven itself to be much more than that. Now in its 12th generation, this evergreen sedan has reliably transported countless families over the years. In recent models, it’s shed its middle-aged image with sleeker, more modern styling.
Known for its dependability and low maintenance needs, much like its longtime rival, the Honda Civic, the Corolla Altis may not be the cheapest option, but it holds strong resale value, making it a smart long-term investment.
One owner summed it up best: “This car took me through National Service and University, and it’s never given me any issues.” Singapore reviewers consistently mention is as “smart, safe and reliable”, appreciating its comfort and suitability for long drivers. TopGear Singapore even mentions that the Altis’s double-wishbone rear suspension and responsive steering makes it stable on bumpy roads and assures less experienced drivers. Users also emphasise on how Toyota’s global presence and parts network make repairs and servicing hassle-free, further easing ownership for rookies.
The Toyota Corolla Altis is part of the legendary Corolla lineup, the world’s best-selling car!
– Price: From $167,888
– Engine Size: 4-cylinder in-line 16-valve Dual VVT-i
– Transmission: 6-speed (A) CVT
– Power: 129 hp
– Torque: 159 Nm
– 0–100 km/h:8 seconds
– Distributor: Borneo Motors
Nissan Note – Mighty Smart
The Nissan Note is a practical and tech-savvy hatchback that’s ideal for first-time car owners. Compact enough for easy parking but roomy enough for everyday use, the Note stands out with its e-POWER hybrid system, essentially an electric drivetrain powered by a petrol engine generator, providing the smoothness of an EV without the need for plugging in.
As one driver puts it, “Great car for a new driver. It drives like an electric car, but it’s actually petrol-powered.”One user noted that their wife’s uncle had a Nissan Note for years and never had any trouble. A driver has even shared that he’s had seven Nissans have been very happy with every single one. Singaporeans drivers note that it has excellent visibility, is safe and affordable in the long run.
– Price: $157,800
– Engine Size: 3-cylinder in-line 12-valve DOHC
– Transmission: Single-speed reduction gear (A)
– Power: 114bhp
– Torque: 280Nm
– 0–100 km/h: Unknown
– Distributor: Tan Chong Motor
Fiat 500 – A Piccolo-Sized Classic
While not a common sight on Singapore’s roads, the Fiat 500 is an icon in many European countries, especially in its home country, Italy. The car’s classic design has been adapted and refined since its debut in 1957, but has never strayed far from its roots. Its tiny size makes it perfect for navigating Singapore’s tight roads, and its light steering and simple controls make it especially beginner-friendly, ideal for first-time drivers still getting used to being behind the wheel.
As one Fiat 500 driver puts it: “I’d say it is one of the best starter cars. Nimble, fun, nice interior, with a timeless look.” Users note that it’s one of the best cars to have for a first car with its good turn angle, easy to eye bumper, nice interior and cheap insurance. Singaporean drivers also note that it is easy to drive and park but also has a transmission quirk that makes the car feel quite jerky.
Fun fact: The original Fiat 500 was nicknamed ‘Topolino’ due to its compact size and resemblance to Mickey Mouse, also known as ‘Topolino’ in Italian.
– Price: From $159,999
– Engine Size:9L Petrol Turbo
– Transmission: 5-Speed Single Clutch Automated Gearbox– Power: 85bhp
– Torque: 145nm
– 0–100 km/h: 11 seconds
– Distributor: EuroAutomobile
Choosing your first car is more than just a practical decision; it’s about finding something that suits your daily routes, parking needs, fuel efficiency, and budget. A good first car should feel like an extension of you: reliable, easy to handle, and enjoyable to drive!
