10 Affordable Cool First Cars to Buy
Shopping for your very first car? Get ready for a whole new world of possibilities. Check out our top picks for affordable and reliable cool first cars.
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Lisa Steuer McArdle
Owning your first car
can be a great investment in your future, but deciding which one can be more overwhelming than you’ve ever imagined. Instead of buying any old vehicle, why not choose something fun for your entry-level adventures?Cool first cars: throwbacks
Who doesn’t want a fun, zippy convertible as their first car? The Mazda MX-5 is no drag race champion, but it does offer optional manual transmission, different generation choices, and pretty awesome fuel economy. You should be able to find a used one for less than $20,000.
If you’ve always wanted a muscle car, the Ford Mustang is your best bet. An S197 Mustang sports a 4.6-liter V8 engine, with later models housing a 5.0L Coyote V8. The cool first car is also easy to work on, with lots of aftermarket offerings to help spruce up your menacing pony car.
Why not get your hands on a hot hatch like the Volkswagen Golf GTI? The cool first car delivers an affordable performance, with an available five-door configuration. While the newest generation can reach 60 mph in about five seconds, it’ll set you back about $30k. We recommend seeking out an earlier model that won’t break the bank.
If you not only want to build a car, but you want to join a community, check out the Boxer-engined Subaru WRX. With its own driving experience, you’ll soon recognize its distinctive sound. The cool first car offers available manual transmission and can be found for about $20,000 for a 2015 model. Maybe less if you’re lucky.
Don’t underestimate a good old Ford Crown Victoria. You’ve seen them around town, sporting V8 engines and rear-wheel drive. Buyers will receive tank-like durability and a huge, practical interior. It’s the perfect cool first car to pile your buddies in the back for a late-night ice cream run.
Another cool first car is the Porsche Boxster. We know what you’re thinking—
hear us out. Even though your typical new Porsche Boxster goes for well over $50k, thanks to depreciation, you can snatch one up for as low as $10,000. While Boxsters are usually well-made, they can get a bit pricey when worked on by professionals.
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New cool first cars that are still affordable
The 2022 Nissan Versa is a smart buy for a first-time car owner. The subcompact vehicle starts at $15,380 but is not a “cheap” car by any means. Buyers will get a high-tech touchscreen infotainment system, and Android Auto and Apple Carplay smartphone integration. The cool first car also offers an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in town and 40 mpg in the city.
The reasonably-priced 2022 Hyundai Kona starts at $21,300. The subcompact crossover is a smart choice for an entry-level vehicle. Buyers will have a plethora of innovative technology at their fingertips.
Standard features include Lane Keeping Assist, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The N-Line or Limited trims provide a more exhilarating experience, with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 195 hp.
The 2022 Honda Civic starts at $22,350. The sedan offers high fuel economy, useful technologies, and impressive driving dynamics (even on the base trim). For the best value, opt for the upgraded engine and convenience features that come with the mid-tier EX trim. If a sporty ride is more your cup of tea, check out the Civic Si model.
First-timer car buyers should also take a look at the 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. The compact car starts at $24,050 and earns an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway. The cool first car offers standard features like an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an automatic climate control system, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration.
Insuring your first vehicle
Once you’ve purchased your sweet new ride, make sure you’re protected on the road. Great coverage doesn’t have to mean shelling out most of your paycheck. In fact, most Americans overpay for their
car insurance
policy every month!If you’ve got questions about your coverage,
Jerry
’s experienced and friendly team of agents are here to answer your questions and provide advice on the best coverage options. The average Jerry driver saves $800+ a year. Are you overpaying for car insurance?
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