Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Electric vehicles have significantly improved since their introduction. Cars like the Kia EV6 can now out-accelerate supercars. Yet range remains a major concern for many drivers. 

However, this issue is improving. The first-generation Nissan Leaf could only go 73 miles on a charge, but the latest model can now travel 168 miles, nearly 2.5 times longer. So, will we see a 1000-mile EV any time soon?

In this article, we’ll examine the EVs on sale and what the future holds for EV range numbers. 

With top cars of 2023 reaching only 450 miles per charge

, achieving a 1,000-mile range will require major advancements in battery technology

. It's uncertain if this will happen soon or if it will be too expensive.

However, Toyota is working on it, planning to develop a 1,000 km EV using a new type of lithium battery. These upcoming ‘solid-state’ batteries are expected to cost 10% less than current lithium-ion ones.

Yes, it’s looking very likely that in the next 2-3 years we will see the advent of 500-mile range EVs using existing methods. 

MIT’s 2023 technology review suggests that lithium batteries will see further advancements soon. With ongoing improvements in cooling, charge movement, and energy density, we may experience 10-20% increases in capacity without significant changes in volume.

We may also see a 600-mile EV in 2027/28 from Toyota’s high-performance lithium-ion battery. The aim is to create a driving range of 1,000km, which is approximately 621 miles.

There might not be a 1000-mile EV yet, but some long-range electric vehicles are on the market right now. Wondering what electric car has the longest range? Here are the top options with over 350 miles:

Thanks to its huge battery bank, storing over 107 kWh of power - that’s over five times the capacity of the original Nissan Leaf! - it will do 452 miles on a single charge. As the MQS is the electric version of the revered S-Class, it will also be 452 miles of comfort and luxury!

It’s nice to see manufacturers creating EVs by tailoring the styling slightly from the standard cars instead of only creating bizarre concept car-looking designs. With its accented trim and shiny grille, the EQS is simply a sleeker, more modern-looking S-Class.

A relatively new player in the EV market and one that has focused on sustainability and longevity in its ethos, Fisker has multiple EVs either in production or planned to be released soon. The Ocean is an SUV that comes in multiple trim levels. The top model, the 

, has a slightly smaller battery pack than the Merc' but still manages 440 miles between plug-ins. 

Fisker claims the Ocean is the world's most sustainable vehicle, with over 50kg of recycled, biodegradable materials being used. Hopefully, that won't mean the dash will disintegrate after 15 years of use!

Polestar has been in the UK for a few years now. After being bought by Volvo, they have cemented their place in the mid-to-high end of the EV market. The new Polestar 2 has achieved sector-topping performance, with over 400 miles range. 

As one of the more subtle EVs, the new Polestar could be mistaken for a new Volvo if it didn't have the green number plate stickers, aero wheels and shiny, flat front grille.

Around 10 years ago, Tesla would be dominating this lineup of EVs, it shows then the pace at which the competitors have innovated, that the Tesla only takes spot 4. 

Regardless, the tech crammed into the latest Model S cannot be overstated, and the figures back it up with a range of nearly 400 miles and a 0-60 of 3.1 seconds.

Very similar to the Model S, the Model 3 is built on the same motor, battery, and drivetrain ‘skateboard’. This means the stats are very similar, with the Model 3’s baby-SUV styling increasing the drag coefficient slightly, leading to a slightly worse range figure of 391 miles.

Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium RWD - Range of 372 miles

Another option with an impressive range is the Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium RWD. This car is popular for those looking for an electric vehicle with unique muscle car features. Cue an impressive range and engaging driving dynamics. 

The main drawback of this model is its poor infotainment system. However, if you can look past this you’re in for a great experience.

BMW i4 eDrive40 Sport - Range of 365 miles

The BMW i4 eDrive40 Sport is another EV that provides a long driving range. With a luxury feel and plenty of advanced tech, this model isn’t the longest on the list, but it gives a satisfying drive nevertheless. 

Two options were released in summer 2021 (eDrive40 and the more performance-focused M50). Both were then later joined by a more basic eDrive35 model. 

 Instead of focusing on longer-range EVs, improving charging infrastructure in the UK would be more beneficial. 

For instance, the Mercedes EQS can travel over halfway from Land’s End to John o’Groats on a single charge and add 86 miles of range with just 15 minutes on a 200kW charger. This raises the question of whether the cost and weight of larger batteries are justified for the extra range. 

Reducing range anxiety is a key advantage of longer-range EVs. Fortunately, the government plans to increase ultra-rapid charging stations from 200 to 6,000 by 2035.

Sceptics of electric vehicles often cite range anxiety—the fear of running out of battery during a journey. 

This concern is valid for two reasons: EVs can't be towed easily due to their complex drivetrains, and you can't simply walk to a charging station for a quick battery top-up like with petrol. 

Running out of power can mean costly recovery or rare services like 

To achieve a 1,000-mile range, EVs will likely need to differ significantly from current models, especially in terms of weight. 

Top EVs with large batteries often have complex features like automated seats and suspension. It would be interesting to see how far a simpler, smaller EV, like the early Nissan Leaf, could go with a 100 kWh battery from the Mercedes EQS.

1000 electric cars - Looking to the future

In conclusion, while the quest for longer-range electric vehicles (EVs) continues, current advancements suggest that increasing charging infrastructure may be a more practical solution than solely focusing on extending range. 

Advancements in battery technology and the expansion of ultra-rapid charging stations in the UK promise to alleviate range anxiety, making it easy to get from A to B without worrying about running out of charge. 

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has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

When Will Electric Cars Have A 1000 Mile Range?

Elektrofahrzeuge mit großer Reichweite: Wann werden wir 1600 km sehen?

We’re incredibly pleased to announce the winner of the Dealership of the Month for September 2023 is Rybrook BMW and MINI Wolverhampton. 

The BMW and MINI team have won the award following their strongest ever month since joining the Bumper network - 49 customers drove away with their bills split into manageable monthly payments in September alone. This record month solidified the site as the top performer in the Rybrook BMW network. 

Trustpilot reviews from mutual Rybrook-Bumper customers applauded the partnership with one customer describing the application process as a ‘very good experience’. Another celebrated the Bumper system, stating, ‘Very easy to set up and a nice surprise when BMW told me I could pay for my service interest-free over 4 months. Great service from Bumper!’ 

In addition to improved customer satisfaction, the implementation of Bumper’s PayLater product into their aftersales process has seen an increase in their red work conversion, labour rate and recovery rate. 

Bumper’s Islay Horton visited the site to hand over the award. ‘I’m really pleased to see Rybrook BMW and MINI Wolverhampton recognised for their fantastic achievement’, said Islay. ‘After implementing PayLater into their everyday conversations with customers the site has seen a huge increase in positive customer feedback and a strong improvement in their KPIs.’ 

Congratulations to Mohammed, Sureena, Kelly, Simon and the whole team at BMW and MINI Wolverhampton!

Rybrook BMW and MINI Wolverhampton Win Dealership of the Month 

There are many different types of automobiles, from saloons to SUVs, and everything in between. One thing most of them have in common is that they are made to serve a practical purpose. Whether that’s hauling luggage in an estate or traversing rough ground in an SUV.

Sports cars, however, are made for one thing, fun. Their powerful engines excite with rapid acceleration, the low-slung body lets corners be taken faster, and a convertible top lets you enjoy the scenery whilst on a leisurely drive.

If you’re lucky enough to be considering buying a car just for having fun in, there is a world of options available, from comfortable cruisers to lightweight racers, we’ve compiled a guide of what does what, best.

Whilst £20,000 is a significant amount of cash to spend on a car, selecting the right one is still super important, as some sports cars can be faster to 

This car features prominently in this article as it’s one of the best-selling sports cars of all time. The recipe for the Mx-5 has stayed the same since the very first generation; simplicity, front-engined, rear-wheel drive and a manual gearbox. 

The reason the modern edition has been so immensely popular is that Mazda has stuck to this recipe, actually managing to make the current 4th generation car lighter than previous ones, contrary to most other manufacturers out there. 

For £20,000 you can get a one-year-old (2022 reg) 1.5 petrol with less than 10,000 miles on the clock. Although we’d probably opt for a slightly older car, with the 2.0 engine, the 1.5 is an excellent unit producing 130 bhp and a 0-60 time of 8.3 seconds. 

For a slightly more powerful car than the Mx-5 but with similar handling, the Nissan 370z is a great choice. The 3.7-litre engine produces 324 horsepower, nearly 3 times that of the ND Mx-5. The V6 engine will also accelerate the car to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. 

As a GT car, the 370z is designed to be slightly more refined on longer journeys, with better sound deadening, driving aids and overall creature comforts. It’s perfect therefore for driving holidays, road trips or just general long-distance travel - as long as you don't have too much luggage! 

If back to basics, raw driving pleasure is what you’re looking for, then a Lotus is one of the best cars to set foot in. Designed by the same company that produced some of the most influential and successful Formula 1 cars of all time, the Elise is the last name for handling and poise.

At only 826kg, the 1.8 normally aspirated petrol engine is plenty to keep the Elise on the heels of any high-powered sports car on a technical, twisty road. The exquisite weight distribution and suspension setup make it one of the best-handling cars ever made. 

Due to the limited production numbers, a consequence of the cars still being made by hand in Norfolk, the Elise has held its value very well, £20,000 would buy you a 2007 model at the newest, with nearing 60,000 miles on the clock.

If you’re willing to go for a slightly older model, then £10,000 is still more than enough to buy an exciting but reliable sports car. Here are our top picks.

The BMW Z4 has been around for over 20 years now and has always been a top pick for those looking for a well-built car for spirited driving but with functional German styling and engineering.

The 3.0 litre straight 6 engine is the best of the bunch, producing around 260 horsepower, which is just the right amount to be lively but not uncontrollable. The Z4 comes in both manual and DCT - BMW’s codename for automatic, standing for Dual Clutch Transmission.

For comfort on long road trips, and ease when using on the occasional summer commute, the DCT is the best choice, both the manual and the DCT get to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, with the manual being slightly faster.

First launched in 2012, the GT86 was quickly adopted as a cheap-to-run, reasonably fast sports car. Its 2.0 litre naturally aspirated engine is surpassed by quite a few of the cars mentioned here, but its nimble-ness is what sets it apart.

With great weight distribution, the GT86 offers great driving performance at a reasonable price, with insurance and tax rates being considerably lower than larger-engined BMW or Porsche alternatives.

As well as being cheap to run, the GT86 is a nice car to be in, coming as standard with Air conditioning, cruise control and a great infotainment system. At around £8,000 for a 2014 car with sub 80,000 miles on the clock, it’s a great option for those with a £10k budget.

Always at the upper end of the spectrum of sports cars, Porsche’s history is full of racing pedigree, from Le Mans to Rally. That ethos is built into all their sports cars, with the Boxster being the most accessible.

Introduced in 1996 it is often regarded as the lesser Porsche when compared to the 911, but in reality it is still an extremely capable car, with excellent poise and handling characteristics. The generation we’d recommend is the first gen, sold up until 2004, as these are obtainable within the £10,00 budget.

 and records, as these cars need to be maintained correctly. A good condition, sub 90,000-mile car can be bought for around £9,000, this will get you the ‘S’ model with the superb 3.2 litres flat 6 engine.

What is the Cheapest Sports Car to Maintain?

Maintenance is an essential part of owning any vehicle, especially one that is designed to be driven near the limit of its performance on a regular basis. To keep costs low you need a combination of good reliability, cheap parts and ease of accessibility, the latter being a killer for many mid-engined sports cars.

For the reasons mentioned above, we would crown the Mx-5 as one of the cheapest sports cars to maintain. Regardless of generation their dependable engines and drivetrains make them extremely durable.

Parts too are easy to come by, and their front engine, and rear drive layout are great for easily accessing components such as the clutch, cambelts and more.

The one, rather large caveat is to look out for rust, look to buy one that’s been restored, imported or dry stored. Whilst the rust repairs are well documented and easily fixed, the costs can mount quickly.

As the Mx-5 has been around for so long, and each generation has been as reliable as the last, we’d recommend any of the 4, depending entirely on your budget.

Cheapest New Sports Car: Mazda Mx-5 - £24,750

We said an article about sports cars would feature a lot about the Mazda Mx-5, and here it is again! At a current MSRP of £24,750, the brand-new Mx-5 is the cheapest new sports car on sale in the UK.

That price gets you the most basic spec known as ‘Prime-Line’. But it’s not necessarily a bad thing, as that nets you 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control, android auto and the great 1.5 petrol engine.

Besides, with the great combination of rear-wheel drive, a manual gearbox and a small, light roadster, the open road is the only extra element required to have loads of fun in the ND Mx-5.

What is the Most Powerful Affordable Sports Car?

If it's raw power you want, there are a few cars out there that offer extremely high horsepower figures but have now depreciated to very affordable prices.

Whilst we would not recommend these for their fuel economy or low insurance premiums, they are certainly reasonably priced to purchase.

As the car with the largest engine on this list, the Monaro VXR8 packs a huge punch, its 5.7 Litre V8 produces 330 horsepower and 349 lb-ft of torque. If the power itself is not enough, the V8 engine produces one of the most thunderous sounds you can get for less than £13,000.

On the topic of cost, a 2005 Monaro can be found for £12,500 on Autotrader. The car we found had only 48,000 miles and a full service history.

If you liked the sound of the Monaro, this German bruiser has even more power, for an even cheaper price. The CLS 55 AMG is a 4 or 2-door saloon with a staggering 500 horsepower from its 5.5 litre V8 engine.

Thanks to a clever automatic gearbox the CL 55 can hit 60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds, despite it weighing twice as much as some of the other cars on this list, at 1920kg.

All this power and performance comes at only £7,495, for a 2006 car with 95,000 miles on the clock. If you want a better-kept example though you may have to break the £10,000 mark. Make sure to keep some money aside for servicing, we found that one rear tyre costs over £300!

So there we have it, a round-up of the various levels of sports car goodness the market has to offer, everything from reliable and economical Japanese featherweights to petrol-guzzling, supercar-challenging brutes. For more guides on what cars to buy, check out our blog 

A Guide to Affordable Sports Cars, New and Old

When it comes to purchasing a family car in the UK, affordability is a key concern. Beyond the initial purchase price, you'll want to consider the cost of taxing, servicing and insuring your new vehicle. 

Car insurance can be a substantial expense, especially for families, but there are options available that won't break the bank. In this article, we'll explore some of the cheapest family cars to insure in the UK, categorised by body type: saloons, estate cars, SUVs, and 7-seaters. 

We’ve also given some indicative insurance premium costs, remember these will vary greatly depending on your personal circumstances. We based our quotes on a 40-year-old driver with 20 years of experience and 10 years of no claims bonus. 

Whilst a hatchback is convenient for loading objects in the back, estates are significantly bigger. If you need to move multiple people, but not bulky items, a full-size saloon (sedan in the US) is the car for you. These are some of the cheapest saloons to insure: 

The Ford Mondeo has been a UK favourite for decades, and its popularity extends to insurers who generally offer competitive rates for this compact saloon. Its reliable and efficient engines, along with a strong safety record, make it an attractive choice for families. 

Whilst the Mondeo has been discontinued by Ford in favour of SUV and Crossovers, there are some great bargains to be found on the second-hand market, particularly on older cars, 2007 - 2014 in particular where the premium Titanium X model can be found for less than £4,000, equipped with cruise control, leather heated seats, DAB radio and more. 

Another well-liked option, the Vauxhall Insignia, is often praised for its affordability, both in terms of purchase price and insurance costs. A perfect replacement to the ageing Vectra, Its relatively compact design makes it easy to navigate through city streets and park in tight spaces, but with enough space and features to be comfortable on long journeys. 

Its high safety record means it has a low insurance group, and therefore doesn’t cost too much to insure. 

The Skoda Octavia offers a bit more space than the previous two options while maintaining reasonable insurance rates. It's known for its spacious interior, quality build, and strong safety features, all of which contribute to its appeal for families. 

The wide range of engine options is another selling point for the Skoda, the best one for a balance of cheap insurance, economy and usable power, is the 2.0 TDI. You can opt for the 1.6 TDI or 1.5 petrol, but for motorway driving a little more power would be worth the increase in cost. 

Estate cars are multi-purpose, they can carry 5 adults whilst also hauling a large suitcase for each. If you then need to move some furniture, simply fold the back seats down and you effectively have a small van. For that reason they’re perfect for families, these ones are selected for their low insurance costs: 

The Dacia Logan MCV combines practicality with affordability. As an estate car, it offers ample cargo space, making it a great choice for family trips. Its low purchase price is mirrored in insurance costs, making it one of the most budget-friendly estate cars to insure. 

Something you might not know is that MCV stands for Maximum Capacity Vehicle, something that Dacia have taken seriously, with its near 600 litre boot capacity. 

Whilst the name Sportswagon may not initially indicate “cheap to insure” the Sportswagon actually manages to secure one of the lowest insurance groups of the whole lineup, with the 1.0 petrol engine being in group 9. 

With Kia's reputation for reliability and affordable maintenance, the other running costs should be relatively low too. The Ceed is also fitted with some great infotainment tech, such as lane keeping, on the higher spec models. 

Historically, Volvo has had a reputation for being owned by older drivers, what this means to insurance companies, though, is 

This is often reflected in the cost of insurance on the practical and safe Swedish autos, to this day.

The V70 is Volvo’s medium estate car, with the V60 and V90 representing the compact and larger estates in their lineup. It offers a good balance of a large boot, but economical engine choices. In typical Volvo fashion, the safety features are some of the best you’ll find in a car of a similar age. 

Some SUVs offer slightly more passenger space and comfort when compared to saloons or estates. One thing they certainly help with is road visibility, which is why many people feel safer driving them. These are some of the cheapest to insure SUVs: 

The Renault Captur is a crossover SUV that blends style with practicality. It's often found on the lower end of the insurance cost spectrum thanks to its modest power and plentiful safety features. 

We’d recommend the TCe 130 engine, as the 1.3 turbo petrol has just enough power to make progress, but retains a low insurance category of 15. If you want even cheaper insurance, the TCe 90 is group 11, but some users report it being underpowered for long journeys. 

The Suzuki Vitara offers an SUV experience without the high insurance costs typically associated with larger SUVs. Its compact size and fuel-efficient engines contribute to its affordability, both in terms of purchase and ongoing expenses. 

As a Japanese-made vehicle, you can be sure the engine and transmission will be robust for many years to come, we’d recommend the full hybrid version for its great fuel economy and ample power. 

The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV that provides a well-rounded package at a budget-friendly price. Its competitive insurance rates due to being in group 16, combined with its modern design and safety features, make it an attractive option for families. 

The 1.6-litre petrol hybrid gives plenty of power for motorway journeys, with the battery and motor assisting nicely for town and city driving, achieving an overall MPG of just above 50. 

If transporting more than 5 people is something you do regularly, then a 7 seater is a must. The first ‘people carrier’ was the Renault Espace in 1984. Thankfully the technology, comfort and safety of 7-seaters have improved a lot since then, and because they are often used for family duties only, the insurance premiums can be surprisingly reasonable. 

The Dacia Jogger is a budget-friendly 7-seater that offers space and practicality without straining your budget. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive 7-seaters, its affordability is hard to beat. 

We think the Jogger is one of Dacia’s best-looking cars to date and has completely revamped the image of Dacia cars, and even the image of 7-seaters in general, with its angular but stylish design. 

The hybrid powertrain produces 140 hp but still returns in excess of 55 MPG, from the 1.6 petrol engine and motor combination. There’s also a 1.0 3-cylinder petrol, which would be the best choice for cheaper insurance. 

Citroën Grand C4 SpaceTourer - £540 per year

The Citroën Grand C4 SpaceTourer is a stylish and spacious 7-seater with reasonable insurance costs. Citroens are known for their comfortable ride and family-friendly features, making it a strong contender for larger families. 

Thanks to the great safety features built-in as standard, and the low insurance group, the C4 SpaceTourer is as reasonable to insure as it is to buy. 

A mainstay in the people carrier market, the Volkswagen Touran is a well-rounded 7-seater that combines Volkswagen's reputation for quality with relatively low insurance premiums. 

It offers a versatile interior, strong safety features, and efficient engines, making it a solid choice for larger families on a budget. Whilst the standard SE trim doesn’t offer too much tech compared to the R-Line, they all come equipped with pre-collision braking and sophisticated electronic stability systems. 

So, the cars detailed above mean that family transport doesn’t need to cost a lot in yearly running costs. We found that for the best insurance premiums, estate and saloon cars are cheaper than SUVs, so if you don’t need the extra height of a crossover or SUV, take a look at some estate and saloon cars first. 

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale. 

Cheapest Family Cars to Insure

Passing your test is an amazing feeling, offering the freedom to explore the country without supervision.

However, new drivers often face high insurance costs due to their lack of experience. To minimise expenses, choose a car with a low insurance rating, which leads to lower premiums. 

Below, we've listed 8 of the cheapest cars to insure for new drivers to help you get on the road without spending a fortune.

If you’re under 20 years old, insurance companies will penalise you even more for your lack of experience. The cars below are perfect for travelling to and from college or school and road trips with friends. 

We’ve also listed some guideline insurance prices based on a 17-year-old driving while living at home with parents. Remember that your insurance quotes will vary greatly depending on personal circumstances. 

Here are some of the cheapest cars to insure for 17-year-olds and young drivers:

1. Ford Fiesta - Group 2 - £1,500 per year

One of the most common first cars and cars for young people, the Ford Fiesta is a legendary supermini, been produced since 1976 right up until 2023, there’s been plenty of innovation, changes and improvements over the years. 

For a great used bargain, check out the Mark 6 model; years 2008 - 2016, which came with cruise control, electric windows and A/C on the mid-range to high-end models such as Titanium. 

2. Renault Twingo - Group 2 - £1,450 per year

Renault excels at making small city cars, and the Twingo was their smallest car in production for a long period. Designed to be made for people who need slightly less space than the Clio, its clever packaging and design meant it actually had almost as much interior passenger space as one. 

Because of its small engine, high safety rating and low cost, the insurance group is only level 2, meaning it's very cheap to insure, and will help bring the price of new driver insurance down. 

3. Vauxhall Corsa - Group 2 - £1,470 per year 

The Corsa is another young driver favourite and has been since its release in 1993, this is due to its compact size and low maintenance and running costs. The new Corsa is no different but is no longer the smallest car in the Vauxhall lineup. 

If you’re lucky enough to be buying a new car for your first one, Vauxhall offers great zero percent interest deals, and the cars come fully loaded with Apple CarPlay, cruise control and more. 

Even though it’s built on the same platform as the VW Up!, surprisingly the Mii is cheaper to insure. This may be because the insurance groupings are based on risk and statistics rather than just car type. 

Subjectively, the Mii does have better styling and a better-designed interior, which is another reason to opt for it over the VW Up! It also comes with more equipment as standard such as 16” alloys, and a DAB radio playing through a 6-speaker sound system. 

5. Volkswagen Polo - Group 1 - £1,250 per year

The Volkswagen Polo is a perfect pick if you want a small car with high ratings. It’s also pretty cheap to insure, meaning you can zip from A to B in a popular car without high costs. 

Polos with 1.0-litre engines fit into Group 1 insurance classifications — the lowest group. So, make sure you’re looking at 1L variants before you purchase. Other perks of a Polo include a big boot, space for four adults, internal soundproofing, and lots of comforts.

6. Hyundai i10 - Group 1 - £750 per year

If you’re really keen to get a good price, a Hyundai i10 is another excellent choice. This car fits into the Group 1 insurance bracket, and you can get deals where you only have to pay £750 per year. Awesome. 

This car is often overlooked as it’s not the most trendy. However, with a high-quality interior, a five-year warranty, and plenty of space, it’s worth considering. Only the 1.0-litre engine version qualifies for Group 1 insurance. This is slower but fine if you drive mainly around towns or cities. 

7. Kia Picanto - Group 1 - £800 per year

Another Group 1 option, the Kia Picanto, can be insured for as little as £800 per year. It’s another small car without any high-tech extras, but it’s ideal for those who have just passed their tests. 

Though the Picanto is small, there’s enough cabin and boot space for comfortable driving experiences. The interior is also surprisingly high-quality compared to the price. You even get a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty, meaning you’ll be covered for longer than the Hyundai i10.

8. Volkswagen Up! - Group 1 - £900 per year

Volkswagen is a fantastic choice for new drivers, not only with the Polo but also the Up. With a 1L engine, this minimalist model comfortably sits into Group 1 and saves you money. Of course, a 1L engine isn’t fast, but this is a compromise you might have to make for cheaper insurance!

The Up has a surprising amount of room, including a generous boot. Pair that with a smooth drive and a more attractive look, and you’ve got a strong contender for a first car.

Cheap Cars to Insure for Older First-Time Drivers

Even though many people learn to drive as soon as possible, at age 17 or 18, we know that it’s not always possible or required for some people until later in life. Therefore, we’ve also compiled a list of ideal first cars for older drivers, who may need space for families and work duties. 

These would also be great for foreign nationals who’ve recently moved to the UK, as insurance costs for expats can be considerably higher. 

Here are the lowest insurance cars for new drivers:

1. Skoda Octavia - Group 13 - £1,150 per year 

 popular saloon or estate car is a good choice for those looking for low insurance. The relatively low power but great safety features mean the insurers don’t deem them a high-risk vehicle. 

Perfect for a family, they have plenty of room for 4 people and luggage, the estate being ideal for carrying a dog, bikes or just doing tip runs. The infotainment is up there with the sister car, the Volkswagen Passat, but at a lower price point. 

2. Kia Sorento - Group 12 - £1,070 per year

Whilst the 2.2 diesel Sorento doesn't have the smallest of engines, its low insurance group means it's still relatively economical to insure. The SUV platform would suit someone who prefers a high driving position too. 

Kias have become a great choice for those wanting peace of mind too, with their 7-year warranty as standard, and reputable dealer network. 

3. Mazda 6 Estate - Group 16 - £1,320 per year

Another roomy estate, the Mazda 6 is a slightly bigger offering than the Octavia but is still in a low insurance group - meaning affordable cover. The boot is cavernous at over 520 litres, and the 2.2 diesel engine has plenty of grunt too. 

We think the Mazda interiors of recent years are some of the most stylish out there, easily competing with the harsh lines of VW and BMW interiors, and being more subtle than Mercedes. 

4. Vauxhall Combo Life XL - Group 12 - £1,240 per year

If practicality is your main concern, a car based on a van would probably be ideal. The Combo Life is just that, with 7 spacious seats and windows in what was a Combo Van floor plan and drivetrain. 

A clever folding mechanism and the removal of the rear row of seats result in an enormous amount of space, perfect for hauling furniture, pets or other large items. The Combo Life comes well equipped too, with a touchscreen navigation system as standard, with a DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity. 

At first, the Seat Ibiza looks like it should be in the first half of the list. It’s a smaller car with a lower-power engine that may suit some younger drivers. However, it’s also great for older drivers who don’t need a larger vehicle or extra power. 

The Seat Ibiza is in insurance Group 2, so it has very affordable costs. It also has a stylish look, plenty of space for passengers, and a touchscreen infotainment system with the possibility of full smartphone integration. Don’t skip this option if you’re a city or town driver!

Other Ways New UK Drivers Can Lower Their Insurance Costs

Alongside looking for the cheapest car to insure for 17-year-old, here are some additional ways to secure affordable insurance.

The Conclusion On Cars For First-Time Drivers With Cheap Insurance

Navigating high insurance costs can take the excitement out of passing your test — but it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Hopefully, this blog has inspired you and helped you find your first car. 

For more tips on how to get cheaper car insurance check out our guide 

, you can spread the cost of any repairs at no extra cost. Apply for a credit limit and find a reliable service partner today. 

Cheap Cars To Insure For New Drivers: Young And Old

In today's world, the push for environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles has never been stronger. Hybrid cars have emerged as a practical solution for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money on fuel. 

If you're in the market for the best value hybrid cars, there are some excellent options. In this article, we'll explore the cheapest plug-in hybrid and self-charging hybrid cars available in the UK, offering unbeatable value for eco-conscious motorists. 

If you're in search of a compact and affordable hybrid, the Honda Jazz Hybrid is worth considering. Renowned for its reliability and efficiency, the Jazz offers excellent value for money. 

Its hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, and the vehicle's compact size makes it ideal for navigating crowded city streets. With its budget-friendly starting price, the Jazz Hybrid is an attractive option for those looking for a reliable self-charging hybrid. 

The Toyota C-HR Hybrid is one of the standout choices for those seeking an affordable yet feature-packed hybrid car. With a starting price that makes it one of the most budget-friendly options in the hybrid market, the C-HR Hybrid offers exceptional value for money. 

The Toyota C-HR is a compact SUV that boasts an efficient self-charging hybrid powertrain, making it perfect for both city commutes and longer journeys. Its impressive fuel economy and stylish design make it a top contender among the cheapest self-charging hybrid cars in the UK. 

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Cheap Cars To Insure For New Drivers: Young And Old

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