Affordable Cars For a First Time Buyer

A new year, new opportunities, new adventures… Now you just need something new to help you on these coming adventures. So whether you’re headed to your first year of university, starting your first job or finally want to give yourself a break from the anxiety brought on by the daily Grand Prix you need to survive just to get to work and back in a taxi, it may be time to consider buying your first car.

Now there are many things to consider when investing in your first set of freedom wheels. Firstly you need to look at your budget. There’s no point getting yourself into a jam by choosing a vehicle you you can’t afford. You may be able to afford the car itself, but maintenance and consumables like tyres could have your baby on bricks if you don’t plan ahead.

Secondly, do you want to go for broke and buy a new car, complete with maintenance plan, warranty and that nauseating smell that you so miss once its gone, or do you go for a pre-owned car, that you may get cheap, but may also go broke trying to keep on the road?

These are just some of the things one should consider when making this kind of big buy. Then there’s also stuff like do you have a loyalty to a certain brand? Or as it’s called in 2014, brand snob-alty, because across the board, most automakers in the international market have their act together and can offer you a decent affordable

get-around, keep in mind what your needs will be in the near future, be religious about maintenance and you’ll be fine.

Check out a few affordable options to consider when in the market for your first car. Please keep in mind that the prices stated below are only an indication and these may vary from that which is currently available to you. Visit various dealerships for the best possible deal.

Kia Picanto 1.2 EX – N$ 130 000

The Kia Picanto has garnered quite a bit of attention after it got a sporty revamp a few years back. Now it has some serious attitude and a 5 year/100 000km motor plan and warranty. A nice little package.

Hyundai i20 – N$137 000

With a beefier body than most of the cars on the list, the i20 is also hard to ignore. Solid build and the same AMH 5 year/100 000km motor plan and warranty as the Kia make this a good buy.

Honda Brio 1.2 Comfort –N$127 000

Super compact, so parking is only as hard as spotting a crack in the wall. You’ll feel like you are nipping around in a Jetson era space pod thanks to the punchy little engine. Get it if you’re an only child and only wear bikinis, otherwise you won’t have anywhere to put your clothes.

Ford Figo 1.4 Trend – N$136 000

Comes fully specced, carrying the trusted Ford badge, but lacks character and style on the inside. Still a quality buy.

Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LT – N$139 000

Small, sporty and well appointed. Not bad at all.

VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Trendline – N$139 000

Many people would simple argue the point by stating the obvious – it’s a Volkswagen. Which is a good point to make, because the cars are well thought out and well built.

Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCI Ambienente

5l/100km. Most efficient passenger car: 2012 Total Economy Run. Plus it’s a Ford diesel engine. Think about it.

Toyota Aygo

Toyota make a strong case with the Aygo, but it won’t take your breath away. It won’t break down or break the bank either. A good option, not much of a looker though.

These were just a few examples of the variety of vehicles to choose from in this entry level segment, but it all boils down to personal taste and the scope of your budget and needs.

Make sure to get something that you’ll enjoy driving. We spend a lot of time in our cars, so we may might as well make it comfy. Just don’t bankrupt yourself or go for broke and buy a car that you can ‘fix up’ as your ‘project’, because waking up two hours early just to get it started won’t make you your boss’ favourite.

Also don’t forget to look pre-owned. There are tons of great deals out there if you just look hard enough and remember, paying the money to have a potential car looked over by a mechanic could save you in the long run. Whatever you do, keep to the rules of the road, don’t drink and drive, keep in mind that everyone around will be distracted at some point (that’s why you shouldn’t be), and you’ll revel in your new found freedom.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.