Cheapest Cars to Insure for New Drivers is one of the most searched topics for newly qualified drivers in the UK — and for good reason. While passing your driving test is a major milestone, the cost of car insurance can quickly turn excitement into frustration.
For young and inexperienced drivers, insurance premiums are often higher than the cost of the car itself.
The good news is that choosing the right vehicle can significantly reduce your insurance costs. Certain cars are cheaper to insure thanks to low insurance group ratings, smaller engines, strong safety features, and lower repair costs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best cheap cars to insure for new drivers in the UK, explain why they’re affordable, and help you make a smart first-car decision.
Why Insurance Is Expensive for New Drivers
Car insurance is priced based on risk, and statistically, new drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents. Insurers look at factors such as age, driving experience, location, vehicle value, engine size, safety technology, and repair costs. Cars that are cheaper to fix, less powerful, and less likely to be stolen usually fall into lower insurance groups, making them far more affordable for first-time drivers.
Choosing a car in a low insurance group is one of the easiest and most effective ways to cut your premium.
Hyundai i10
The Hyundai i10 is widely regarded as one of the cheapest cars to insure for new drivers in the UK. Many versions sit in insurance groups as low as 1 or 2, making it an excellent option for keeping premiums down. Its small engine options, lightweight design, and strong safety features all work in favour of lower insurance costs. The i10 is also easy to drive, simple to park, and cheap to run, making it ideal for city driving and first-time ownership.
Volkswagen Polo
The Volkswagen Polo offers a balance of affordability, safety, and quality. Entry-level petrol models fall into relatively low insurance groups, especially compared to more powerful superminis. The Polo’s solid build quality, strong safety ratings, and predictable handling make it popular with insurers and drivers alike. It’s a great option for new drivers who want something refined without paying excessive insurance premiums.
Skoda Fabia
The Skoda Fabia is a practical and cost-effective hatchback that remains cheap to insure when choosing lower-powered trims. Insurance groups are typically low, and the Fabia’s reputation for reliability and low repair costs helps keep premiums reasonable. It also offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, making it a strong all-rounder for new drivers who need a bit more practicality.
Kia Picanto
The Kia Picanto is a compact city car that’s well suited to new drivers looking for low insurance and running costs. With modest engine options and a lightweight build, the Picanto sits in favourable insurance groups. Its small size makes it easy to control and park, while modern safety tech helps reduce insurer risk. Kia’s long warranty is an added bonus for first-time owners.
Toyota Aygo X
The Toyota Aygo X combines city-car affordability with SUV-inspired styling. Despite its rugged look, it remains inexpensive to insure thanks to its small engine, excellent safety systems, and strong reliability record. For new drivers who want something stylish but still affordable to insure, the Aygo X is a smart choice.
Other Cheap Cars to Insure for New Drivers
Several other models consistently rank among the cheapest cars for new driver insurance. The Volkswagen Up is known for sitting in some of the lowest insurance groups available, while the Fiat 500 offers low insurance costs in non-sport trims. The Dacia Sandero is another standout, offering more space than most small hatchbacks while keeping insurance and ownership costs low. Older versions of the Renault Clio can also be affordable when choosing sensible engine options.
How to Reduce Insurance Costs Even Further
Even with a cheap car to insure, there are additional ways new drivers can lower their premiums. Choosing comprehensive cover can sometimes be cheaper than third-party policies. Parking off-street, adding an experienced named driver, avoiding modifications, and opting for a black box policy can all help reduce costs. Building a clean driving record and no-claims bonus over time is the most effective long-term way to bring premiums down.
FAQ: Cheapest Cars to Insure for New Drivers
What is the cheapest car to insure for new drivers in the UK?
Cars like the Hyundai i10 and Volkswagen Up frequently rank among the cheapest due to their low insurance group ratings, small engines, and strong safety features.
Do insurance groups really matter?
Yes. Insurance groups play a major role in determining your premium. Lower group cars are generally cheaper to insure because they are less powerful, cheaper to repair, and considered lower risk.
Are used cars cheaper to insure than new cars?
In many cases, yes. Used cars are often cheaper to insure because they have lower market values and replacement costs, provided they still have good safety equipment.
Is it cheaper to insure a small car?
Usually, but not always. Small cars with low engine sizes and low insurance groups are typically cheaper, but safety ratings and repair costs also matter.
Should new drivers use black box insurance?
Black box policies can significantly reduce costs for new drivers who drive safely. They reward good driving behaviour and can help lower premiums over time.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest cars to insure for new drivers can make a huge difference to your first years on the road. Sensible choices like the Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto, and Volkswagen Polo offer low insurance costs without sacrificing safety or usability. By choosing the right car and combining it with smart insurance decisions, new drivers can enjoy affordable motoring while building experience and confidence behind the wheel.
