The best cars for 17 year olds in the UK
First-time drivers deserve a car that won't drain the insurance budget or break down in the first year.
Turning 17 is a big moment — and picking the wrong first car can cost your family thousands. Insurance premiums for a 17 year old can vary from around £800 to well over £3,000 depending on the car. Every model below is hand picked to keep that number sensible while giving your child a car they'll actually be proud to drive.
Insurance group 1–8
The lowest groups keep quotes affordable for a brand new licence holder.
Small engine, sensible power
1.0–1.4 litre engines — cheap to insure, cheap to fuel, easy to place on the road.
Modern safety kit
Six airbags, ABS, ESC — the safety features new drivers actually need.
Black box friendly
All the cars below work perfectly with telematics policies from Marmalade, Bell and Admiral.
Available today
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Frequently asked questions
How much is insurance for a 17 year old on a first car?
As of 2026, expect £900–£1,800 per year on a group 1–4 car with a black box, or £1,500–£3,000+ without one.
What car should I NOT get my 17 year old?
Anything modified, anything above insurance group 15, and small hot hatches like a Corsa VXR or Fiesta ST — the insurance is often uninsurable at 17.
Is a black box worth it?
For 17-18 year olds, almost always yes. It typically saves £400–£1,000 in year one.