Learning how to drive is something you need to grin and bear through, but the payoff of independence and skill is a fruit oh so sweet.
Those first few moments of getting behind a wheel are quite crucial to developing good habits behind the wheel. Nowadays, we tend to see many learner signs on SUVs and luxury vehicles that have a level of autonomous driving features. These driver assistance systems may be there to make driving safer and easier, but in the hands of a learner, it can also introduce bad habits like distracted driving. That's why it's better to learn to drive in a car that doesn't have these extras.
We've assembled a list of good used yet affordable learner cars you can invest in that are available on our website. The trend here is small, manual hatchbacks with basic accoutrement and necessary safety systems like ABS, EBD and at least two airbags. The point here is to build your skill. Understandably, some people are not able to drive manual cars for valid reasons but don't worry we have you covered. Bar one vehicle on this list, all the options here are available with an automatic transmission.
Without further adieu,
1. Tata Bolt
The Tata Bolt is different from the norm of hatchbacks. As part of a recent effort from Tata to revolutionise their brand after acquiring Jaguar Land Rover, the Bolt is one of the results of this project. It's quite affordable to get into, hovering around the R100 000 mark. Unfortunately, there's only manual transmission available here but regardless, with the 1.2-litre turbocharged engine, it should make learning how a drive a little more fun.
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2. Suzuki Swift (1st and 2nd Generation)
The Suzuki Swift is a venerable choice when it comes to learning how to drive. The vehicle, while easy to drive, rewards you well for smooth inputs and good driving practices in the form of a fun experience. There are plenty of them on the market with many ranging from R120 000 - R160 000. You can get a 1.4-litre Swift in both manual and automatic.
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3. Toyota Yaris.
There will be many learner driver memories that will involve a Toyota in some way, shape or form and here's one of them. It's all for good reason though. The Yaris in particular is easy to pick up and go and quite a decent runabout. You can find them in both manual and automatic transmissions. Prices vary depending on the shape, but budget from R80 000 and up.
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4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo
The Volkswagen Polo Vivo is a popular choice of starter car due to its availability, popularity and easily attainable spare parts. It's also a good car to learn clutch control in. Due to its popularity, it's easy to find a Polo Vivo that can suit a decent range of budgets from R70 000 and up. You can find a Polo Vivo in both automatic and manual transmissions.
Search Autotrader to find used Volkswagen Polo Vivos>
5. Mazda 2
The Mazda2 is such an underrated vehicle and quite affordable to boot. The short stature of the Mazda2 makes it easy to manoeuvre but fun to drive. It's a memorable car for certain in both hatchback and sedan form. You can find both older and newer Mazda2 vehicles from R70 000 and up. Automatic models are on the later-generation Mazda2s.
