Learning to drive an automatic car? These are the best models for the job

Jack Evans22nd August 2025

If you’re getting your automatic-only licence, then there’s a good chance that you’re looking to get a car that’ll fit the bill. Here at UK CarLine, we’ve got an excellent range of automatic-only cars that are great to drive and relatively inexpensive to insure, too.

However, if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the choice, how can you make sure you’re getting into the right car for you? To make things easier, we’ve picked out some of the best to check out today and they’re all available on UK CarLine today. 

Volkswagen ID.3

Volkswagen ID.3
The ID.3 is one of VW’s core EVs

If you’re going automatic-only, then why not go electric, too? The Volkswagen ID.3 is one of the brand’s core electric models and offers a Golf-like level of spaciousness and practicality. It’s got a large central infotainment screen, too, which brings all key media functions alongside features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

In big-battery versions, you can get a range of up to 369 miles, too, so this is one EV which will be able to manage those long-distance adventures, too. 

Audi A3

Audi A3
The A3 can be specified with an efficient hybrid powertrain

If you’re after an automatic car that’ll do it all, then why not consider the tried-and-tested Audi A3? It’s got Audi’s typically rock-solid build quality, coupled together with lots of clever technology and some really high-end materials. 

You can get the A3 with a variety of efficient engines, too, including a plug-in hybrid which can help to return some serious fuel savings. 

Jaecco J7

Jaecoo 7
The 7 aims to bring lots of technology and features for the money

Jaecoo may be one of the newest names in the UK motoring scene, but its J7 is quickly becoming a common sight on our roads. Bringing the option of petrol or plug-in hybrid powertrains, this spacious SUV has all of the technology you could want and a great level of practicality. 

Though the Jaecoo J7 may be a little bigger than your typical ‘first’ car, a variety of parking sensors and cameras should help when positioning this smart-looking SUV.

Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring
The Dacia Spring is a compact car which is ideal for the city

Dacia’s compact Spring could be the ideal first automatic car. It’s small, easy to drive and has great visibility, while its light steering makes nipping in and out of traffic a breeze. It’s electric, too, so if you’re able to charge at home, then running the Spring will cost a fraction of what it would take to fuel a petrol or diesel-powered equivalent. 

With a range of 140 miles, the Spring has more than enough in the ‘tank’ for average-length drives, too. 

Toyota Aygo X

Toyota Aygo X
The Aygo X is ideal for first-time drivers

Toyota’s Aygo has historically been a go-to first car and, with that Aygo X, that tradition is continued. Essentially, the X brings a chunkier look and a more go-anywhere design, but with the same low running costs and compact dimensions of the previous-generation car. 

An efficient 1.0-litre petrol engine brings a good level of efficiency, too, and the good news is that it’s available with an automatic gearbox. 

Renault 5

Renault 5
The Renault 5 brings loads of style

Renault’s new 5 is here for the style-conscious drivers out there. Made in the spirit of the original 5, the new model has the retro-infused design that you’d expect but with heaps of clever equipment and technology. It even has a relatively well-sized boot given its compact dimensions. 

With up to 250 miles of range, the Renault 5 can go far further than just the city. It’s also great to drive with sharp handling and a decent level of performance. 

As you can see, there’s a great spread of models to choose from here at UK CarLine if you’re looking for a car with an automatic gearbox. For more options, check out our current range or get in touch with a member of the team today for any extra advice that you need.


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