Buying your first car is exciting — and a little overwhelming. Whether you're a new driver, a college student at USF or UT, or just buying your first car on your own, we've got you covered with the best first car options in Tampa.
The best first cars share a few key qualities: they're affordable to buy and own, reliable so you're not stranded, safe with modern safety features, and easy to insure. In Tampa specifically, you want good A/C and decent fuel economy for commuting.
Honda Civic — The Civic is the quintessential first car. It's reliable, fuel-efficient, fun to drive, and has a massive aftermarket for affordable maintenance. Insurance rates are reasonable, and it'll hold its value when you're ready to upgrade.
Toyota Corolla — If reliability is your top priority, the Corolla is unbeatable. It's the lowest-maintenance vehicle you can buy, with excellent fuel economy and some of the lowest insurance rates in its class. Not the most exciting, but incredibly dependable.
Hyundai Elantra — The Elantra offers the most features for the money, which is important when you're on a first-car budget. The remaining Hyundai warranty (10-year/100,000-mile powertrain) gives first-time buyers extra peace of mind.
Kia Forte — Similar to the Elantra in value and warranty, the Forte stands out with its sleek design and standard features. It's a great choice for first-time buyers who want a modern-looking car without a premium price tag.
No credit history? No problem. Tampa Autohaus works with lenders who specialize in first-time buyer programs. We can help you get approved and start building credit with your car purchase. Visit our financing page to learn more.
The Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra offer the best balance of low purchase price, cheap insurance, and long-term reliability. Both can be found under $15,000 for recent model years.
Yes! At Tampa Autohaus, we work with lenders who offer first-time buyer programs. You may need a co-signer or a larger down payment, but we can help you find financing options.
Set a realistic budget (include insurance, gas, and maintenance), get pre-approved for financing, always test drive before buying, and don't rush into a decision. At Tampa Autohaus, we offer a no-pressure shopping experience.
Browse our full inventory or contact us for personalized recommendations.