Best first automatic car 2025
Take a look at some of the best first automatic car options on the used car market right now
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By Ben Welham
Last updated: 24 July 2025
Driving a manual isn’t for everyone. Whether it’s because you don’t feel comfortable or that you’d rather have a more seamless driving experience, we get it – who doesn’t want an easier life?
Switching to your first automatic car is the easiest way to secure a smooth drive. It can also help you focus more on the roads than nailing those gear changes.
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So, here is a list of the best first automatic cars for new drivers that will make you feel more at ease (and look incredibly cool) on the road.
Best first automatic cars:
Audi A1
Vauxhall Corsa
Peugeot 108
Nissan LEAF
Fiat 500
Nissan Juke
smart fortwo
Audi A1
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The Audi A1 is without a doubt one of the best superminis money can buy. You can get brilliant deals on a used Audi as well, saving money on the cost of a brand-new option.
Not only is it stylish, but it’s also very well made and packed full of the latest and greatest in-car technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
When it comes to driving, the Audi A1’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is as smooth as butter- and sportier than you’d expect- when it wants to be.
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Vauxhall Corsa
 "Vauxhall Corsa driving")
From one superb supermini to another, the Vauxhall Corsa is an ideal cheap first car for new drivers because of how easy it is to drive and how compact it is.
Aside from the automatic petrol variant, you can also get the all-electric Corsa-e, which offers guilt-free motoring in silence.
But if that’s not your thing, then the standard Vauxhall's engines are excellent, especially mated to the smooth eight-speed auto ‘box on newer models.
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Peugeot 108
 "Peugeot 108 front three quarters")
The Peugeot 108 is a great little city car that appeals to many new drivers thanks to its cute looks and easy drivability.
But what many people may not be aware of is that you can have this small Peugeot with an automatic gearbox, if you fancy.
It doesn’t produce any ground-breaking speeds, but it’s perfect for driving around town or going on longer motorway journeys.
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Nissan LEAF
 "Nissan Leaf front")
If you feel like treating yourself to an automatic gearbox, then why not go all the way and opt for an electric car?
The Nissan LEAF is one of the best used electric cars money can buy because it’s practical, offers great range, and can suit many different lifestyles.
We like to think of this Nissan as the thinking man’s Tesla Model 3 because it’s cheaper to buy and it fits the family – just like its American rival.
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, said: "The LEAF is a reassuring fixture on the EV circuit, and we love that it continues to surprise us even though it's been around longer than most.
"It still looks modern, holds its own in terms of range, and with this new bi-directional charging, it’s still proving to be one of the most eco-friendly EVs you can buy."
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Fiat 500
 "Fiat 500 front")
One of the most common cars to see wearing an ‘L’ plate in the UK is probably a Fiat 500.
Not just because it’s an Italian automotive fashion icon, but Fiat's world-famous model also makes for a great first car.
From its chic exterior to its retro buttons on the dashboard, there’s plenty to admire about the Fiat 500.
Plus, some models come with an automatic gearbox to help you whizz through town.
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Nissan Juke
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If you want to sit high up on the road and enjoy an SUV-like driving experience, then the Nissan Juke is the best option for you.
It’s been growing in popularity since it first came out in 2010, with Nissan selling more than one million to Brits alone.
Part of this is down to its automatic gearbox set-up, which makes driving it a pleasure.
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smart fortwo
 "Smart Fortwo driving")
From a crossover SUV to one of the smallest cars money can buy. The smart fortwo, while small, is still one of the most desirable city cars in the world because of its Mercedes-backed engineering and tiny dimensions.
Aside from the all-electric smart EQ fortwo, there’s the standard petrol-powered car that comes with the option of an automatic gearbox that offers quick shifts and a smooth ride.
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Discover used automatic cars:
If you're ready to dive head-first into used automatic car ownership, then you've come to the right place.
With a range of different automatic gearbox types and body styles, we're confident there's the right car for you.
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