Best first cars for newbie drivers in Missouri: top choices

Getting your first car is an extraordinary moment, and picking the right one can be challenging for novice drivers. Considering that, Clement Pre-Owned dealership's professionals compiled a list of the best first cars to buy. Take a look at these options, or begin by checking out our vast selection of used cars online. 

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As a first-time car buyer, you’d better consider models that balance power and safety. Here is our list of the best vehicles for new drivers:

• Honda Civic
• Ford Fusion
• Volkswagen Jetta
• Toyota Camry
• Honda Accord
• Chevrolet Cruze
• Kia Sportage
• Nissan Rogue

The Honda Civic has been a solid option for newbie drivers for decades. It is known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and high safety. The range of body options, such as sedan, coupe, and hatchback, satisfy various preferences.

• Fuel type: gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 25-32 mpg/city; 36-42/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 158 to 306 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD or AWD

The Civic's compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver and park, while its agile handling and comfortable interior enhance the overall driving experience. Equipped with advanced safety technologies, the Honda Civic provides confidence to novice drivers as they begin their journey.

Honda Civic

The Ford Fusion, a midsize sedan, can offer a comfortable ride and spacious interior. This reliable, high-quality vehicle with proper maintenance can last more than 200,000 miles. 

• Fuel type: gasoline, hybrid and plug-in-hybrid
• Fuel consumption: 20-23 mpg/city; 29-34/highway
• Horsepower: depending on the engine, it ranges from 175 to 325 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD or AWD

With various engine choices, the Fusion is a budget-friendly choice. While this Ford vehicle doesn't boast a sporty driving experience, it guarantees a smooth, safe, and stable ride ideal for those just starting behind the wheel. 

Ford Fusion

The VW Jetta is the perfect combination of performance, comfort, and signature Volkswagen style. It is known for its exceptional handling on the road, making it the best first car. Safety is paramount for the Jetta; as a result, it consistently earns top rating scores. 

• Fuel type: gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 23-30 mpg/city; 34-40/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 147 to 228 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD 

The base model has all the features an inexperienced driver needs, including six airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and hydraulic brake assist. 

Everything in the Jetta has been thoughtfully designed. Whether handling at a reasonably high speeds or quick maneuvers, the WV Jetta provides a versatile and reliable driving experience.

 VW Jetta

The Toyota Camry is a well-respected model known worldwide. It consistently earns the first line in safety ratings, making models from 2012 onwards an excellent choice for new drivers. Even the base models have advanced safety features, emphasizing reliability and efficiency. 

• Fuel type: gasoline, hybrid
• Fuel consumption: 27-29 mpg/city; 37-41/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 204 to 301 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD with some AWD options

The Camry is a budget-friendly car with reasonable ownership costs, including maintenance. While it's not a high-performance sports car, the standard 4-cylinder engine is more than enough for everyday city driving in Missouri. You can opt for a V6 engine option if you want more power. In short, the Toyota Camry is a dependable, cost-effective vehicle, offering safety, affordability, and balanced performance.

Toyota Camry

The Honda Accord has a long-standing reputation as a well-built, durable car. This model is designed to last long, offering good fuel economy, safety features, and affordability. Honda's reputation for reliability is well-deserved, backed by years of awards, including the “Best Overall Brand” and “Best Value Brand” in the KBB Brand Image Awards. 

• Fuel type: Gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 30-33 mpg/city; 38-47/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 192 to 252 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD with some AWD options

The Accord offers a comfortable and smooth ride, making driving pleasant for daily routines or longer trips. It's available in different body styles, including sedan and coupe, giving you options to choose what suits you best. The Honda Accord provides a spacious, comfortable interior with ample legroom and storage space. This model offers a combination of practicality, reliability, safety, and modern features, making it a well-rounded and appealing choice for those who buy their first car in Missouri.

Honda Accord

The Chevrolet Cruze embodies the qualities of the best first car, offering a smooth and stable ride. It's well-known for being budget-friendly and fuel-efficient, making Cruze auto an affordable option for newbies.

• Fuel type: Gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 28-30 mpg/city; 38-40/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 137 to 153 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD 

This model ensures a comfortable driving experience backed by an easy-to-use infotainment system; this simplifies the learning curve for those just starting to drive. The Cruze has ten airbags and a directional stability mechanism with frontal collision prevention. Higher trims include ABS technology and StabiliTrak to prevent rollovers. These safety features and high Euro NCAP scores make the second-generation Chevrolet Cruze an excellent option.

Chevrolet Cruze

When choosing your first car, the Kia Sportage is an exceptional choice. 

The Kia company is renowned for providing good value for your money. The Sportage is all about a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality and features. It is a wise investment for those just starting on their automotive journey.

• Fuel type: Gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 23-26 mpg/city; 30-33/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 181 to 240 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD and AWD

Equipped with advanced safety technology, including driver assistance features, it offers extra protection and confidence on the road. The Sportage comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that ensures you stay connected and entertained without diverting your attention. With a comfortable interior and smooth ride, the Kia Sportage provides a pleasant experience for the new drivers and mature autopilots, perfect for those who want to enjoy every moment behind the wheel.

Kia Sportage

The Nissan Rogue is a budget-friendly, safe, and efficient choice for first-time drivers. This compact SUV offers remarkable fuel economy that not only reduces your environmental footprint but also saves you money. 

• Fuel type: Gasoline
• Fuel consumption: 27-29 mpg/city; 37-41/highway
• Horsepower: ranges from 141 to 170 hp
• Seating: up to 5 passengers
• Drivetrain: FWD and AWD 

The Rogue excels in crashworthiness, providing robust protection. This model offers a convenient and spacious interior and ample cargo space. All these benefits make Rouge a perfect first car and a reasonable choice for everyone with an active lifestyle.

Nissan Rogue

Visit the Clement Pre-Owned dealership in St. Charles, Florissant, or St. Louis, MO, for a confident choice. Our high-qualified team will help you find the ideal balance between style, safety, and affordability. Join us for a test drive with the entire family!