Best First Cars for Students

Not driving to a daily 9-to-5 genuinely lowers the cost, because insurers price annual mileage, and typical student mileage sits well under the average. These four are costed at 3,000 miles a year, not the usual 8,000.

Figures below were checked 4 July 2026 and will move over time as the market and our data change. Insurance group and running cost both depend on the exact registration year and engine, not just the model name, so always confirm both for the specific car you're looking at (see why that is).

1. Toyota Aygo 1.0 petrol
   2009 to 2014 Insurance group 3

   £174/month at 3,000 miles a year, versus £235/month at average mileage, roughly a quarter less.

2. Kia Picanto 1.0 petrol
   2016 to 2023 Insurance group 2

   £182/month at 3,000 miles a year, versus £244/month at average mileage.

3. Hyundai i10 1.0 petrol
   2017 to 2026 Insurance group 2

   £190/month at 3,000 miles a year, versus £254/month at average mileage. This group mixes older used examples with nearly-new stock; check the exact registration.

4. Volkswagen Polo 1.0 petrol
   2018 to 2021 Insurance group 1

   £192/month at 3,000 miles a year, versus £255/month at average mileage.

Figures checked 4 July 2026.