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Automatic for a nervous learner

My 20 year old daughter is learning to drive and despite numerous lessons is really struggling with manual transmission. She has suggested trying an automatic but I am concerned about the implications. She argues in the long term it will cost less to pass her test as she will need fewer lessons. Assuming she wins this argument what are the likely pitfalls when it comes to her buying a cheap small second-hand car and are there any makes/models you would suggest?

Asked on 21 July 2015 by Mrs H, Lancs

Answered by Honest John
She will be restricted to automatic or automated manual or electric cars only, which greatly restricts her choice of cars and which cars are relatively expensive because the demand for them is comparatively greater than the supply. Probably best and most reliable is a 1999-2005 Toyota Yaris 1.3 4-speed auto, though reliability of a car more than 10 years old can never be guaranteed.

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