First Car

If you're looking for your first new car, or just want something small, affordable and fuel efficient, then we've got you covered.

On sale: Peugeot has cut the price of the 208 GTI to 1980s prices.

Peugeot cuts 208 GTi pricing

French firm winds back the clock for run-out sale.

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More gear for Mazda2

Mazda adds sedan option and additional features to popular city car

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The Ford EcoSport launched in 2013 but has been overtaken in the sales race by the newer Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V.

Ford hatches EcoSport future

Success of hatch-style Mazda CX-3 has blue oval considering its options for next-generation baby SUV.

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The Volkswagen Jetta 147 is a Golf GTI in disguise in many ways.

The best used car bargains

Unloved, underrated and, most importantly, undervalued - we pick the best buys on the market today.

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Mazda2

Genki SKYACTIV-Drive HATCHBACK from $21,990

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Ford is doing deals on its Fiesta range.

Ford Fiesta

Sport PwrShift EcoBoost HATCHBACK from $22,525

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Volkswagen Polo

66TSI Trendline HATCHBACK from $16,490

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Honda's Jazz is a practical, reliable hatch.

Honda Jazz

VTi-S HATCHBACK from $19,790

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Kia Rio

5 Premium HATCHBACK from $17,690

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Mazda2 Sedan first drive review

New body adds booty to the city car’s compact appeal.

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The Nissan Micra offers no-frills transport.

Road Test: Nissan Micra ST

Japanese brand's updated city runabout offers no-frills transport for those looking for an affordable first car.

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Peugeot 307 used car review

Not all French hatchbacks are created equal, as little Pug proved

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Mazda2 long-term review

Is our city car class champion the ideal first car for a new driver?

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First Drive: Skoda Fabia

Smart-looking city car also introduces smartphone tech to Aussie roads

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Road test: Mazda CX-3 sTouring

Japanese brand's baby SUV is stylish and a fun drive but lacks overall refinement.

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2014 Drive Car of the Year: Best City Car

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2013 Drive Car of the Year: Best City Car

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2012 Drive Car of the Year: Best City Car

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Finding the right car for your needs amongst the hundreds that are available is half the battle.

Choosing a car

Choosing your next car from the hundreds of models available can be bewildering, unless you follow our simple guide.

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As well as getting professional inspection it can't hurt to give your next potential ride a look over berfore.

DIY inspections

We recommend getting a vehicle inspection report carried out on any vehicle that you intend to buy, however there are some checks you can do yourself to narrow the field whilst out looking..

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Make sure you are prepared to be prepared for whatever happens.

Insurance advice and pitfalls

When it comes to car insurance, you could be looking down the barrel of some nasty fine print. Glenn Butler gets out the magnifying glass.

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You've picked you ideal car on paper, now time to try it out for real.

How to test drive

Preparing for a test drive begins before you leave home, so never rush your first encounter with the car that could become your best friend or your worst enemy.