Best Used Cars For New Drivers

Even if car ownership in Singapore remains one of the most (if not the most!) prohibitive in the world, we cannot deny that learning to drive is still an essential life skill. Call us old school or unexciting, but the last thing that new drivers need is either to carry the weight of a massive financial burden, or to drive a car that’s too big, too cumbersome for their own good. This shortlist addresses both concerns with options that affords sleek city driving without breaking the bank!

2010 Chevrolet Aveo 5 (Manual)

Depreciation: S$7,900 per year

Singapore is not known for bargain basement deals, so this Chevrolet Aveo 5 is as close as we can get. A simple, light, manual hatchback with a monthly depreciation outlay of S$665 doesn’t sound ridiculous. We’re laying down the early agenda - prioritising affordability!

2013 Suzuki Swift

Depreciation: S$10,000 per year

The new Swift might have just landed, but that’s not where we’re heading. The ZC32S still looks as fresh as a daisy - compact, brilliant turning radius and surprisingly practical for its size. Nothing breeds anxiety more than 3 point turns for new drivers - this car eases that worry. And it’s a Swift Sport for an added sting in the tail.

2017 Mazda 2 Hatchback

Depreciation: S$11,300 per year

We thought that the Swift was a hard act to follow, but the Mazda 2 has done well to navigate the choppy waters of Singapore’s car landscape. Small, compact cars shouldn’t be priced out of reach for first time drivers, but this is as reasonable as it can get. It’s perky 1.5-litre motor reminds us of old school, rev-happy sensations - something which can’t be experienced with tech-loaded EVs. Grab them while you still can…

2019 Honda Civic

Depreciation: S$9,400 per year

If your newly acquired skill means that you also double as the family chauffeur, a mid-sized sedan can be an option without feeling intimidated. Sure it’s longer and wider than a compact hatchback, but the 10th-generation Civic is ergonomically spot on, has minimal blind spots and most importantly, transcends family generations. All yours for less than 10 grand depreciation annually.

2006 Toyota Vios

Depreciation: S$9,400 per year

In our new car reviews we emphasised the importance of cars to be right-sized for its application. Older cars have it easier as previous generations are often lighter, smaller and less complex - traits that the first-gen XP40 Vios embody. These cars are more engaging because they are more mechanical and require literally more “strength” to maneuver, which is ideal for new drivers to learn the ropes.

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Browse Carousell Certified used cars here or if you need help with any part of the car-buying process, check out Carousell’s Car Buying Personal Assistant!