How to choose the right car for each stage of your life

Whether you’ve been on the road 4 days or 40 years, choosing a new car doesn’t get any easier. It’s a big decision, after all. 

The vehicle you buy will be one of the biggest investments you’ll make, and it’s one you’re likely to live with for many years, so it’s important you get it right. 

Things like our lifestyle and income change as we age, and that means the way we use our cars and what we need from them changes, too. 

While you’re likely to have your own individual wants and desires, there are some common strands, depending on what stage of your life you’re at. 

If you’re in the market for a new car, we’re to help you choose a car that’s right for you – no matter what stage of life you are at. 

Cars for teens

Most teen drivers are students or part-time workers who don’t have loads to spend, and just want something reliable to get around in. If you’re buying a car for a teenage driver, your considerations should include: 

• A car in a low insurance group. Inexperienced drivers pay more for their car insurance compared to their older counterparts, as they’re considered a higher risk. To bring the cost down as much as you can, you may want to find a car in a low insurance group. These are bandings from 1 to 50, taking into account things like engine size and the cost of parts. As some insurers take these groups into consideration when calculating car insurance premiums, a car in a lower group can be cheaper to insure.
• A used car. Let’s face it, a brand new car that is worth several thousands may not be the best option for your first few years of practice.  As a new driver is likely to have a few bumps and scrapes along the way, a used car that does the job, but that you’re not too precious about may be a good place to start.  

Cars for young professionals

As you get a little older, you’ll be out of education and laying the groundwork of your career. 

With a growing income, you’re likely to be focusing more on your new lifestyle, as well as getting the most out of your 20s and 30s. Key considerations for you include: 

• A car with a little more power. If you commute daily or travel around the country for work, this will eventually take its toll on that compact used car from your early driving years. At this time, you may want to think about buying a car with a more powerful engine, perhaps moving towards a saloon or estate body type, or you could even buy a new car - if this is an option for you financially.
• A car that’s fun. Consider cars that can enhance your lifestyle, whether that’s a soft top for those sunny days, a superb sound system, or room in the boot for all your festival bits and pieces.  

Cars for families

Once you start a family, your priorities change, and so does what you need from your car. Young families often find that their car becomes a much more essential part of their life, as it helps them keep an often hectic schedule on track. Key considerations include: 

•  A car with room to grow.  When you bring your firstborn home, you’ll quickly realise how a car with bigger dimensions could come in handy. From more space in the back to get the baby’s car seat in and out, to a bigger boot for transporting all those essential supplies; families often realise  they need a roomier vehicle. It’s important to not prioritise only  the present though, as if baby two or even three is a prospect, you’ll certainly want lots of space.
• A car that’s efficient. We all know that raising a family doesn’t come cheap. You’ll find your budget is tightening a bit more as your family grows, so it makes sense to have a vehicle that’s efficient and affordable to run. When browsing for cars, look at stats around fuel economy and keep an eye out for efficiency-boosting features like stop/start technology.  

Cars for older drivers

 Now that you’re a bit older, and the children have started to fly the nest, you can start thinking more about what you’d like in a car again, rather than what’s simply practical. It’s hard to define what the best cars for older drivers are, as this will largely be down to your own preferences and what you intend to use the vehicle for, but a few areas to consider are: 

• A car that’s comfortable to drive. As we get a bit older, driving can become a more strenuous task than we previously remember it, particularly across long journeys and commutes. To keep unwanted aches and strains at bay, always consider your comfort behind the wheel when you test drive any car.
• A car that’s accessible. The car you buy may be with you for several years; perhaps well into your retirement. Even if it feels like you’re a world away from needing a more accessible type of vehicle today, it’s important to reflect on what features you may need in five or maybe 10 years’ time.  

Once you find a car you love, you will need car insurance you can rely on. To see what Rias can do for you, get a quote from us today.