Buying your first car? Discover why the Nissan Sentra, Versa, and Kicks are some of the best first cars for young drivers—packed with safety features, fuel economy, and value.
Buying your first car is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be a bit overwhelming. You want something reliable, safe, affordable, and maybe even a little fun to drive. Whether you’re a student, a recent grad, or just ready to upgrade from borrowing mom’s car, knowing what makes a great first car is key.
At Hicks Family Nissan in Robstown, we make it easy to find a car that checks all the right boxes. Our lineup includes some of the best first cars for teens and young drivers on the market, like the Nissan Sentra, Versa, and Kicks—each built with smart tech, dependable safety systems, and everyday affordability.
First-time buyers and young drivers should look at important features. This is true whether they are considering a Toyota Corolla, a compact SUV, or a sporty car.
Check for common safety features. These include automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, lane departure alert, and rear cross traffic alert. These aren’t just nice to have—they’re designed to help you avoid accidents and drive with confidence.
Fuel-efficient vehicles save you money every week. Models like the Versa and Sentra get great gas mileage. This means you can travel farther without worrying about fuel costs.
Cost matters, especially when buying your first car. Nissan models are priced fairly and usually have lower insurance costs. This helps you stay within your budget even after you buy the car.
A small car or compact SUV is ideal for navigating traffic and sliding into a tight parking lot space. First-time drivers benefit from cars that are easy to control and maneuver.
Nissan vehicles come with standard features like Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and NissanConnect®. Staying connected without distraction is a big plus—especially when you’re new to the road.
Here are three Nissan models that often rank high for first-time car buyers. Each model offers a good mix of performance, safety, and affordability.
Looking for a compact sedan that’s as functional as it is stylish? The Nissan Sentra is a great choice for young drivers. It offers comfort, reliability, and strong safety features all in one package.
Why it’s a great first car:
The Nissan Versa proves that a great first car doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. It’s budget-friendly without feeling basic.
Why the Versa is one of the best first cars:
The Versa is a good choice among subcompact models. It is better than competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Honda CR-V. Plus, it costs less.
Need something with more space but still easy to handle? The Nissan Kicks is a small SUV designed for flexibility. It is a great choice for new drivers who want more than a basic car.
Why Kicks is a smart choice:
The Kicks has the perfect balance of practicality and style. It is better than larger SUVs or basic sports cars.
Remember to consider not only the purchase price but also monthly payments, fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Nissan models are known for their affordability long after you drive off the lot.
Never financed a car before? No problem. We work with first-time buyers to find financing solutions that work with your credit history—even if it’s still being built.
Trading in an old car (even one in just good condition) can reduce your total cost. We offer on-the-spot trade evaluations right here at Hicks Family Nissan.
We’re dedicated to helping families and young drivers find vehicles they can count on. When you shop with us, you’ll get:
Stop wondering what is a good first car—come test drive one at Hicks Family Nissan. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient sedan, a compact crossover, or just a car that makes sense for your lifestyle, you’ll find it here.
