What's the best automatic for a learner driver?

My 21 year old daughter has applied for her provisional licence and is keen to learn on an automatic. We will need to buy a small auto and have up to £3500 budget. First question, if we get an auto box which has the option of semi auto changes can she legally drive this before or after passing her test? I would prefer a torque converter box but they are like hen's teeth at the moment. Can you recommend some options for the best cars for our budget?

Asked on 5 July 2021 by GTC20th

Answered by Dan Powell

If your daughter learns and passes her test in an automatic car then her licence will be restricted to 'automatic only', which means she will not be able to drive a manual vehicle. The semi-auto gearbox will not change the 'automatic only' licence she will gain if she passes.

The best auto? I'd probably say the Honda Jazz or Toyota Yaris. Both used CVTs (continuously variable transmissions) which have extremely good reputations for reliability.

Tags: learner drivers automatic cars

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Honda Jazz (2008 - 2015)

Neatly styled. Increased room and better performance than original Jazz. better to drive. Very versatile. CVT-7 returned in February 2011 replacing i-SHIFT. More reliable than first generation Jazz.