The Top Five Most Popular First Cars in the 2000s
The noughties arrived with a bang at the millennium. Haven’t we got here fast!
The decade of Y2k, iPods, flip phones and – how could we forget – the final episode of Friends. With the explosion of the internet, communication opened new worldwide opportunities in the 2000s. From social networking to massive expansions for businesses online.
Thanks to a significant financial crash, the oil and gas industry had supply and demand fluctuating unpredictably in the 2000s. This was punctuated by a late-in-the-decade crash for car sales. It resonated most strongly with American brands, but all big sellers of SUVs and other large models suffered too. There were many smaller factors influencing the crash but all related to the supply and demand issues. Due to the high cost of fuel and dissuading the public from purchasing the juicier, lower mpg vehicles.
You will see these cars quite regularly on our roads if you keep your eyes peeled. As reliable, economical and lasting cars, they all make great first cars for first-time drivers.
Nissan Micra
The Nissan Micra has been present for many decades and is just as popular now as it was in the 2000s. Particularly for first time drivers. Its nippy engine and compact size were excellent qualities for getting comfortable on the road. Not to mention its quirky looks.
The 1.0-litre engines that were so popular in the 1990s remained for the Nissan Micra. Along with a 1.4-litre if you wanted a little more punch, but the 1.0-litre was more than enough for the dinky little Micra.
Fun facts:
- It won three major awards throughout its manufacture, including the European Car of the Year award.
- A hot hatch version with a 16v engine, new exhaust system and upgraded suspension was created to compete in the Micra Challenge.
- It was the second Nissan model line to be produced in the UK at the Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK (NMUK) plant in Washington, Tyne and Wear.
Volkswagen Polo
The long-standing Volkswagen Polo, starting in 1975 to the present day, had a long reliable production. Perhaps not noted for being a particularly inspiring ride, the Polo more than made up for it in reliability, comfort and longevity.
The infamous 1.0-litre petrol engine, along with 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre made the Polo a great option for so many different owners. Bolstered by the stalwart Volkswagen branding, the Polo was never far from the ‘to buy’ list for new drivers in the 2000s.
Fun facts:
- The Volkswagen Polo was a successful rallying car, going on to win a round in the World Rally Championships.
- Volkswagen have sold more than 12 million Polos worldwide... so far!
Ford Fiesta
By the millennium, Ford had really perfected the art of the Fiesta. It was well-designed, reliable and the most ergonomically and mechanically advanced Fiesta thus far. ABS and passenger airbags were now included as standard too. A strong pull not only for first time drivers but also for anyone even remotely safety conscious.
With 1.25-litre, 1.3-litre, 1.4-litre, 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre engine options, it’s no surprise that this Fiesta smashed through the market. It turned out to be the best-selling of all Ford’s Fiestas. An engine for every occasion.
Fun facts:
- The fifth generation Ford Fiesta became the best-selling Fiesta to date.
- It was the first Fiesta to be sold in Asia and Australasia.
- Originally the smallest car made by Ford.
Citroen Saxo
Many first cars were personalised in some way, whether it be different wheels, a mascot or the music choice you blasted on your drive. You’d probably be familiar with a Citroen Saxo with a loud exhaust making its way around your town in the 2000s. Don’t get us wrong, although it wasn’t quite as safe, kitted out or economical as other first car choices available, the Saxo was still an excellent first car. But it was probably one of the most popular with those wanting to modify their first car.
Spoilt for choice? Engine choices started with a 1.0-litre and went onto a 1.1-litre, 1.4-litre, 1.5-litre, 1.6-litre... The list goes on. Safe to say, there were a wealth of engine options with the Citroen Saxo. This made it a very popular car when it came down to browsing for a first car. If sportier rides were a priority, the 1.6-litre VTR and VTS models were a popular choice at the time.
Fun facts:
- A special model with a sliding canvas roof was released, named the ‘Open Scandal’.
- The Saxo was only produced for seven years.
- The Citroen C2 and C3 were popular replacements for the Saxo.
Honda Jazz
The Honda Jazz was quite a new offering coming into the 2000s. It was an instant hit for flexibility and safety, not just for first time drivers either.
The 1.2-litre entry-level engine was the ideal choice for new drivers, especially those who needed flexible cargo space. Honda’s monospace interior can fold the seats in various ways. Perfect for carrying luggage and transporting your friends, without compromise.
Fun facts:
- The Honda Jazz name has been used for multiple Honda vehicles since 1982, including a nippy 500 cc motorcycle in Japan.
- The Honda Jazz is named the Honda Fit in Japan and other countries.
- The Jazz is a multiple time winner of the Car of the Year award in Japan.
Shop new cars at Bristol Street Motors
Our first cars timeline is nearly at the present day! And today we still offer you the finest calibre of cars, whether brand new or quality used. Take a look at our current stock on the Bristol Street Motors website. We’re sure we will have just the car for you.
Bristol Street Motors has been providing all types of cars throughout the decades for over 100 years. Our experience is right at your fingertips. Join us at your local dealership, book an appointment or simply give us a call to have any of your questions answered right away.