Top 5 Used Cars for New Drivers in Ontario
Top 5 Used Cars for New Drivers in Ontario
Posted on June 9, 2025
Buying Your First Car?
Whether you're a recent grad, student, or a parent helping your teen gear up for the road, choosing the right used vehicle can feel like a lot. At Deejay’s Auto in Brantford, we get it — new drivers don’t just need a good price. They need safety, reliability, and confidence behind the wheel.
To help narrow it down, we’ve rounded up five of the best used cars for new drivers in Ontario — plus Reem’s top pick for handling tough Canadian winters.
1. Honda Civic
Why it stands out: One of Canada’s most trusted compact cars — dependable, fuel-efficient, and easy to drive.
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Great gas mileage
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Low insurance and maintenance costs
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Excellent resale value
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Available Honda Sensing® safety tech
Ideal for: Students, first-time drivers, and everyday commuting
2. Toyota Corolla
Why it stands out: Built to last, low-cost to maintain, and packed with safety.
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High safety ratings
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Simple, no-fuss controls
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Affordable repairs
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Strong fuel economy
Ideal for: Parents buying for teens or anyone looking for long-term value
3. Mazda3
Why it stands out: Sporty, stylish, and surprisingly fun to drive without compromising on safety.
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Tight handling and smooth ride
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Excellent crash-test results
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Upscale interior feel
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AWD available on select models
Ideal for: Drivers who want practicality and personality
4. Hyundai Elantra
Why it stands out: A budget-friendly pick that doesn’t skimp on features or comfort.
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Impressive warranty
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Bluetooth, touchscreen, and safety features standard
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Solid fuel economy
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Low ownership costs
Ideal for: Drivers on a budget who want modern features
5. Kia Forte
Why it stands out: A solid all-around performer that offers a lot for the price.
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Spacious interior and trunk
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Smooth drive
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Modern infotainment options
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Great used market value
Ideal for: First-time buyers who want a feature-packed vehicle without the premium price
Reem’s Pick: Subaru Legacy
Why it stands out: If you’re heading into your first winter as a driver, this is the car to trust. With standard all-wheel drive, the Legacy handles snow like a champ.
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AWD comes standard
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Excellent winter grip
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Great safety scores
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Comfortable for longer drives
Ideal for: New drivers tackling Canadian winters or road tripping north
What to Look for in Your First Car:
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Safety features like blind spot monitoring, back-up cameras, and solid crash-test ratings
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A clean maintenance history
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Affordable insurance
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Easy handling and parking for city or highway driving
At Deejay’s Auto, we carry a wide range of certified, detailed, and safety-inspected vehicles — all with no hidden fees. Whether you’re financing your first car or trading in your old ride, we’re here to help you drive away with confidence.