Looking for your first car? Not sure how much you should spend? This article will help you figure out what is a good price for a first car.
The road for the first time with your car is exhilarating and freeing. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teen getting the first car of your life or a parent looking for the first car for your child, or someone who has started driving after a certain point in the course of their life, you’re likely to be thinking about the right price for your first car. It’s not a problem because we have researched to bring you the solution.
What you invest in your first automobile depends on your financial situation and age. However, generally speaking, the first car you buy should be priced between $5,000 to $15,000 and $10k to $15k range providing the best value. This range of prices will generally assure that the car is reliable and safe without breaking the bank.
Here are a few used cars that make excellent first cars, ranging from SUVs to sedans, and the worth of every one of them
- Toyota Camry: $13,500
- Nissan Altima: $12,400
- Honda Civic: $14,600
- Toyota Prius: $14,200
- Subaru Outback: $14,000
- Ford F-150: $16,600
- Ford Escape: $12,300
Don’t be concerned if you’re still concerned about choosing an ideal new car for the first time. In this article, we’ll go over the subject in depth. We’ll also discuss the issue of whether a first car needs to be brand new or used and the age at which teens should be getting an automobile. So, without further delay, let’s start!
Choosing A Good First Car
If you speak to someone who has driven for a long time, you will find that they have nostalgic stories of their very first automobile. The first car you drive is important since it signifies the freedom of driving on the road.
When choosing a car for your first, reliability, safety, and price are the main considerations. Although the budget for the first car will depend on the individual’s income and life stage, The range of $5,000 to $15,000 is an acceptable amount for a typical first-time car buyer.
This price range can typically eliminate junker cars with significant mechanical issues. The price range is large enough to cover a broad range of vehicles that are of good quality.
On that note, some vehicles have gained an enviable reputation for being great first-time cars for drivers just starting out.
Before we dive deep into the particulars of each car, It’s important to note the following:
- This list focuses solely on previously owned automobiles because most first-time drivers search for secondhand cars (more on this topic in the future).
- The cost averages are determined by the private party cost of 2014 model-year cars in good condition with trim levels that are middle of the road, standard equipment and 70, 000 miles. Be aware that the prices listed are merely averages and the exact cost could differ based on the above mentioned factors. Additionally, at the time of writing, the cost of cars is at its highest, and that is apparent in the assessment of value for every vehicle on the list.
- The numbers presented are taken from the Kelley Blue Book.
1. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is perhaps the most reliable automobile in history. This Camry is a dependable car from a style and function perspective. It is a gas-efficient vehicle and has a long history of dependability. On average, you’ll need to shell out $13,500 for a used Camry.
2. Nissan Altima
Its name is the Nissan Altima is another tried-and-true car from a well-known manufacturer. If you’re searching for an elegant, reliable car, look at the Altima. On average, expect to shell out $12,400 for a used Altima.
3. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is one of the most popular sedans on the market. It is renowned for its reliability and durability. The Civic is a fantastic option for anyone starting as a driver. On average, expect to spend $14,600 on a pre-owned Civic.
4. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has become quite well-known due to its impressive fuel efficiency. Its fuel efficiency is outstanding. Prius existed for a long time to make getting the best price on a pre-owned vehicle effortless. On average, you can spend $14,200 on an old Prius.
5. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a reliable vehicle for all types of adventures on and off the road. On average, you will be able to shell out $14,000 for an older Outback.
6. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is the most loved pickup truck in the market for the right reason. On average, expect to shell out $16,600 for an old F-150.
While this price is slightly higher than the range described earlier, it’s important to remember that pickup trucks come in various designs. Therefore the price of a pickup truck could differ more than that of other vehicles.
7. Ford Escape
Ford Escape is another great option for a first-time car. It has numerous advantages that come with an SUV; however, it’s not overly large and is a good choice for a novice driver. On average, expect to spend $12,300 on a used Escape.
Should Your First Car Be New Or Used?
The range of prices previously mentioned is a prerequisite for new cars as previously owned cars are typically preferable in the case of an initial vehicle. Budgets can be wildly different; however, for the typical new owner, used vehicles are the way to go.
Cheaper used cars are better than brand-new vehicles. Since most new drivers are teenagers not experienced in driving, It makes the most sense financially. It logically senses buying a used vehicle, especially one that has undergone a period of huge depreciation.
Most of the brand new car’s loss of value occurs during the initial few years. New cars could lose up to half their value in the first few years.
A first car is just that — a first car. Most new drivers keep the first vehicle for a couple of years before buying a new car. It’s therefore advisable to get a secondhand and less costly vehicle to ensure that you don’t take a huge cost when it’s time to sell it to purchase a brand new vehicle.
Additionally, the first automobile is the gateway in the field of the driver. A car that is the first one can help novice drivers gain confidence and become proficient on the road.
In this period of building confidence (the beginning of driving), collisions with other drivers and minor incidents could cause cosmetic damage. Therefore, it’s not the best idea for a novice driver to buy a new vehicle.
- Read also about When will car prices go down?
What first car should you buy?
