The Road Ahead: The reality of first-year car ownership

Getting your first set of wheels has always been a milestone moment, but the "Road Ahead" looks very different for today's young drivers especially compared to their parents. From the models we choose to the hidden costs of the first-year, we explore the shifting reality of first-year freedom.

When are drivers getting their first car?

Our research shows that just over half of Brits (52%) got their first car before the age of 20, with 5% getting their first car before 17, 27% getting theirs at 17 or 18 and a further 20% at 19 or 20.

While car ownership still begins young for many, the financial reality for today’s drivers looks very different to previous generations. Younger drivers are far more likely to face higher upfront costs, with 32% of 17–24 year olds spending £5,000 or more on their first car, compared to 38% of over-55s who paid under £1,000 for theirs.

Family support is also playing a bigger role than ever. 86% of younger drivers say their parents or guardians have helped or are likely to help with driving costs, and 66% of parents say they are currently, or expect to be, financially supporting their child’s driving. In fact, 14% of Brits had their first car fully paid for by their parents.

First car nostalgia: The most popular car makes and models

Whether it was a brand-new hatchback or a much loved hand-me-down, the costs of our first cars have shifted over the years.

According to our data, the top makes for 17-year-old drivers include:

If you’re looking to keep costs down, the make you choose matters. Among the top 10 car brands for 17-year-olds, Fiat shows the lowest average premium of £1,384.41, followed closely by Citroen (£1,538.61).

According to our data, the most popular cars for new drivers across all generations include Ford, Vauxhall and Mini.

Despite the costs, the emotional attachment remains strong. 33% of Brits named their first car, and 75% look back on it fondly, with 61% agreeing it represented freedom and independence, proving that a first car is far more than just getting from A to B.

The cost of car ownership beyond the wheels

There is some good news for new motorists. Our data shows that the average insurance premium for drivers who have held their licence for less than a year has fallen from £2,650.46 in 2024 to £1,871.41 in 2026.

However, when looking at the broader picture of first-year driving costs, excluding the price of the car itself, on average, the majority of Brits spent £2500 during their first year on the road. The age of the vehicle also plays a significant role in affordability.

Cars aged 1-3 years show the lowest average premiums at £520.20, whereas cars over 15 years old can cost more to cover, averaging £674.61. To help with lower premiums, sticking to a smaller engine is key. Insurance for engines under 1.0L show averages of £532.55, while stepping up to a 3.0L+ engine can drive costs up to £954.77.

For new drivers and young drivers, a telematics or black box policy could also be worth considering. These policies monitor driving habits such as speed and braking to help insurers assess risk and usually offer cheaper cover.

What our expert says...

“While it’s encouraging to see average premiums for new driver insurance fall compared to recent years, insurance is still one of the biggest upfront costs in that first year on the road. When you add in fuel, maintenance, tax and any unexpected repairs, the total cost of driving can quickly add up, which is why it’s important to look at the full financial picture before choosing a car.

Ultimately, shopping around, comparing quotes and choosing a car that sits in a lower insurance group can make a meaningful difference to overall first-year driving costs. Telematics or ‘black box’ insurance policies can also be a good option for young or new drivers, as they’re often more affordable and can encourage and reward safer driving. Considering these things when looking can help you find a deal within your budget.”

Amy Rootham, Insurance expert

Barriers to independence: Why cost is a roadblock for many

For many, learning to drive is no longer a guarantee:

• 13% of drivers said first-year costs stopped them from owning a car altogether

• 27% said first-year costs limited how much they drove

For younger drivers (25 years old or younger), ownership and independence goes way beyond the cost of the car:

• 36% say insurance is the biggest financial barrier

• 14% say lessons and tests are the biggest barrier

• 55% of under-25s say the cost of driving has stopped them from learning to drive altogether

• 15% of 17 to 24 year olds found first-year driving costs unmanageable, compared to just 6% of over-55s

The rising cost of driving is changing how young motorists interact with their friends. Financial pressure has made sharing costs a practical necessity rather than just a polite gesture.

Research shows that 18% of young drivers now feel they must ask friends for petrol money when fuel prices are high. Additionally, 37% say it is necessary to ask for a contribution when friends regularly expect to be driven around. For many, the days of providing free lifts are a thing of the past.

How are parents supporting young drivers in 2026

High driving costs are proving to be a significant surprise for many parents today. The cost of getting a young driver on the road often exceeds expectations, particularly regarding essential start up costs.

According to recent data, 64% of parents were surprised by the high cost of insurance, while 27% found the price of lessons and tests unexpected. Consequently, 77% of parents believe it’s now much harder for young people to afford their first car than it was for previous generations.

While the experience of getting a first car may have changed over time, understanding the full costs involved can help drivers and families make more informed decisions. By comparing options and planning ahead, motorists can better manage first-year expenses and choose cover that suits their individual needs.

Methodology

Consumer survey

A nationally representative survey of 2000 UK vehicle owners was conducted by Compare the Market between 11/02/26 and 18/02/26 to assess the costs, habits, and sentiments surrounding first-car ownership.

Sources

Compare the Market: Car insurance premium trends (2024–2026) for the UK’s top-selling makes. Data correct as of January 2026.