Cars for young drivers

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For a young driver, the right car is small, simple and safe. A petrol compact under €12,000 ticks every box: easy to park, not too powerful and suited to short trips. A diesel, on the other hand, copes badly with repeated short trips because of its particulate filter.

The first thing to look at is insurance. It's expensive when you're starting out, and far more so for a powerful or sporty car. Get a quote for the exact model before you commit. Add the registration tax and the annual road tax, which depend on your region.

What to check before you buy

  • Safety equipment. Airbags, ESP and, ideally, driver assistance systems. They count for more than horsepower.
  • The Car-Pass. Under two months old and checked with the QR code. Compare the mileage with the wear on the steering wheel and pedals.
  • Tyres and brakes. They're what keep you out of trouble. Check the wear.
  • The Euro standard. Recent petrol cars generally get into LEZs, but check on lez.brussels if you're heading to Brussels.

Never pay a deposit remotely, and take a test drive of at least 20 minutes. If you can, bring someone who knows cars. A dealer gives you one to two years of warranty. Between private parties, you're only covered against serious hidden defects.