Learning to drive? 3 best cars for 1st-time drivers

Bianca Resnekov (in for Pippa Hudson on CapeTalk) speaks with motoring journalist Ernest Page.

Listen below:

Learning to drive can be a stressful experience, and mistakes are bound to happen.

The experience can be made easier by learning in the right car.

Page says you should be looking to spend around R200,000 on a starter car, which gives you plenty of options.

He says students tend to prefer hatchbacks, which are compact and easy to park.

Learner drivers also tend to prioritise fuel-efficient, low-maintenance cars.

Bearing this in mind, Page's top choice is a Kia Picanto.

“It ticks all of the boxes.”

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

His next recommendation is the Toyota Starlet, as parts are always available at relatively low prices, making it ideal for someone learning.

Finally, he says the Suzuki Swift is 'an absolute winner'.

“You are looking at a car that has got new safety tech, very good fuel consumption, decent power, low weight... It's compact and easy to maintain.”

- Ernest Page, motoring journalist

Scroll up to the audio player for more.