Driven to purchase your first car?

As life escalates to the next phase, big purchases become inevitable. We steer you towards cost effective vehicles that won’t dent your pocket

word by gugu masuku

So, you’ve finally reached that point in your life where you’re tasked with making what is arguably one of the most exciting decisions you’ll have to make as an adult — purchasing your first vehicle. In a world with an array of vehicles to pick from, we understand that this could be a tricky space to navigate as a first timer, which is why we’ve gone ahead and rounded up a list of five gleaming options for your consideration. Each with their own set of attributes to suit a variety of taste buds.

Suzuki Swift Sport

The Swift Sport is an unassuming little character — it looks cute but can be a bolt of lightning at the best of times. Offering driving fun and character behind the wheel is what the Swift Sport specialises in, for an asking price of R315,900. It now packs a turbocharger on that 1.0l engine, meaning there’s never a dull moment with the Suzuki. Whether it be through corners (this is when it comes into its own) or with those quick sprints from one traffic light to the next, the driver in you will be satisfied — and so will your inner child.

Datsun Go

Here’s an entry level vehicle aiming to tick all the correct boxes. The Go may not be the most aesthetically dazzling of the lot, but it makes an earnest effort to deliver on what’s important. For a starting price of R159,100 you get a 7-inch touch screen, paired with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If that’s not enough they’ve even thrown in voice recognition to spruce things up. Standard safety equipment is there for your peace of mind, but it’s the availability of an automatic transmission that makes the difference here. Those who spend half their lives stewing in traffic will know its value.

VW Polo Beats

There’s Polo and there’s the Polo Beats. The latter is aimed at those seeking a little more than the conventional functionality in a vehicle — you want more than just a Polo from your VW. The Polo Beats is aimed at those with an ear for great sound with a standard 300-watt audio system from Beats by Dre. It doesn’t end there; the unique interior is an eye catcher with a splash of “Velvet Red” across the dash, and is laced with black and white accents. It all comes together to create a visually appealing space.

Renault Kwid

If bang for buck is what you’re after, then you’re looking at it (R144,900). The Kwid is polarising on the styling front and this new version stands out even more in the budget corner. Its freshly designed face now has a set of slits for eyes, plugged with daytime running lights. Fuel consumption is frugal at 4.7 l/100 (claimed), making this a great transporter. What makes it an attractive purchase is the free one year comprehensive insurance, which amounts to decent savings. On a less enticing note, the little Renault has a rather poor safety rating, meaning you won’t get much cover on that front.

Audi A1 Sportback

Dare to stand apart? Then you’ll probably love Audi’s baby model, the A1. The little Audi has certainly matured in every way, and now carries a striking and futuristic design. What we love about this little hatch, aside from its alluring looks, is its ability to mould itself into being what you like. There’s a selection of ten rousing colours at your disposal, and if that’s not exclusive enough, you can have the roof finished in a contrasting colour, along with a host of exterior styling packages to choose from. These are just some of the perks that come with owning a premium brand starting at R359,900.