Top 5 First Cars for Guys: Affordable, Reliable, and Stylish Options for New Drivers

Choosing the right first car is a significant milestone for any young man embarking on his driving journey. The ideal vehicle should blend safety, reliability, affordability, and a touch of style to make those initial years on the road both enjoyable and secure. Here are five top picks that meet these criteria, offering excellent options for new drivers.

1. Mazda 3 (2020-2025)

The Mazda 3 is renowned for its sporty handling and upscale interior, making it an appealing choice for young male drivers seeking both performance and comfort.

Key Features:

• Engine Options: Equipped with a responsive 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a balance of power and fuel efficiency.

• Safety: Earned high safety ratings, with features like stability control and multiple airbags.

• Fuel Economy: Offers impressive fuel efficiency, averaging around 30 MPG combined.

Pros:

• Sporty Performance: Responsive steering and agile handling provide an engaging driving experience.

• Quality Interior: High-quality materials and a well-designed cabin offer comfort and style.

Cons:

• Rear Space: The backseat may be slightly cramped for taller passengers.

Average Price Range: For the 2025 model, the starting MSRP is approximately $24,000.

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Where to Find: Mazda 3 Listings

2. Honda Civic (2020-2025)

The Honda Civic has long been a favorite among new drivers for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sleek design.

Key Features:

• Engine Options: Features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine known for its durability and efficiency.

• Safety: High safety ratings with standard features like anti-lock brakes and side curtain airbags.

• Fuel Economy: Excellent fuel economy, averaging around 32 MPG combined.

Pros:

• Reliability: Known for longevity and low maintenance costs.

• Resale Value: Holds its value well over time.

Cons:

• Performance: Base models may lack the sporty feel some drivers desire.

Average Price Range: The 2025 Honda Civic starts at an MSRP of $25,000.

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Where to Find: Honda Civic Listings

3. Toyota Corolla (2020-2025)

The Toyota Corolla is synonymous with reliability and efficiency, making it a practical choice for first-time male drivers.

Key Features:

• Engine Options: Comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offering a smooth ride.

• Safety: Features like stability control and multiple airbags contribute to high safety ratings.

• Fuel Economy: Delivers excellent fuel efficiency, averaging around 32 MPG combined.

Pros:

• Dependability: Low likelihood of mechanical issues, ensuring peace of mind.

• Comfort: Spacious interior with user-friendly controls.

Cons:

• Performance: Not the most powerful option in its class.

Average Price Range: The 2025 Toyota Corolla has a starting MSRP of $22,300.

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Where to Find: Toyota Corolla Listings

4. Ford Mustang (2020-2025)

For those seeking a blend of performance and style, the Ford Mustang offers an iconic driving experience suitable for responsible new drivers.

Key Features:

• Engine Options: Available with a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine providing a balance between power and fuel efficiency.

• Safety: Equipped with features like traction control and multiple airbags.

• Fuel Economy: Reasonable fuel efficiency for its class, averaging around 24 MPG combined.

Pros:

• Performance: Delivers a sporty and engaging driving experience.

• Design: Classic muscle car aesthetics appeal to many young male drivers.

Cons:

• Insurance Costs: Higher insurance premiums due to its classification as a sports car.

Average Price Range: The 2025 Ford Mustang starts at an MSRP of approximately $32,000.

Where to Find: Ford Mustang Listings

5. Hyundai i30 (2020-2025)

The Hyundai i30, known as the Elantra GT in some markets, offers a blend of practicality and modern features, making it a solid choice for new drivers.

Key Features:

• Engine Options: Equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine providing a smooth and efficient ride.

• Safety: Features like electronic stability control and multiple airbags contribute to its safety credentials.

• Fuel Economy: Offers good fuel efficiency, averaging around 28 MPG combined.

Pros:

• Value for Money: Affordable pricing with a generous list of standard features.

• Warranty: Hyundai's extensive warranty offers additional peace of mind.

Cons:

• Performance: May not be as sporty as some competitors.

Average Price Range: The 2024 Hyundai i30 starts at an MSRP of approximately $33,000.

Where to Find: Hyundai i30 Listings