What Are the Best Hyundai Models for First-Time Car Buyers?

For first-time car buyers, choosing the right vehicle can feel overwhelming. Which manufacturer is best? Do you buy new or used? Sedan, SUV, or crossover? 

Hyundai is here to make choosing easy! As a brand that has consistently delivered reliability, value, and impressive warranty coverage, it’s ideal for anyone new to car ownership. From compact sedans to versatile SUVs, Hyundai’s lineup offers several models that strike the perfect balance between affordability and quality. 

Read on to explore the best Hyundai models for first-time buyers from your go-to Hyundai dealer in Wolfchase, TN!

Top Budget-Friendly Hyundai Models for First-Time Buyers

Looking for budget-friendly Hyundai cars? You’re in the right place! Let’s take a look at the most affordable Hyundai models, many of which are under $25K!

Hyundai Elantra

The 2025 Hyundai Elantra SE starts at $22,025 and offers an impressive blend of technology, comfort, and efficiency. This compact sedan features a sporty design, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, essential driver-assist features including blind-spot monitoring, excellent fuel economy, and a surprisingly spacious interior. It’s a great daily driver, especially for first-time car buyers!

Hyundai Kona

Starting at $27,880, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE is a versatile compact SUV that is great for both families and adventurers. It is available with all-wheel drive and provides generous cargo space, perfect for your weekend adventures. Safety features like driver attention warning and lane-following assist, a customizable interior, and impressive fuel efficiency for a vehicle in its class are just a few more reasons to love the Kona!

Hyundai Venue

The 2025 Hyundai Venue SE is the most affordable option at $20,100. Designed specifically for urban environments, this subcompact SUV offers an unexpectedly large interior, an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, comprehensive safety features, and Hyundai’s renowned warranty coverage for long-term reliability.

Best Hyundai Models for Safety and Reliability

Wondering what the safest Hyundai cars are? We’ve got everything you need to know!

Award-Winning Sedans

Hyundai’s sedan lineup remains popular thanks to its distinctive styling and impressive safety ratings. The compact Elantra and mid-sized Sonata have both earned IIHS Top Safety Pick honors and are equipped with advanced safety technologies like high-beam assist, LED headlights, forward collision avoidance, and numerous driver assistance features. These safety ratings, combined with their convenient features, make both models excellent choices for buyers who want peace of mind behind the wheel.

SUV Safety Excellence

Hyundai’s SUV lineup boasts exceptional safety performance, starting with the Venue’s Top Safety Pick recognition. In addition, the electric IONIQ 5, Tucson, Santa Fe, and seven-passenger Palisade have all received the highest possible IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designations. Each SUV offers versatile cabin configurations, efficient powertrains, modern features, and stylish designs.

Santa Cruz: Safety in a New Format

The innovative Hyundai Santa Cruz is marketed as a “sports activity vehicle” but is classified as a small pickup truck. However you classify it, this model rounds out Hyundai’s safety-first lineup with its IIHS Top Safety Pick honor. This unique vehicle offers the utility of a truck with a compact bed for cargo, premium interior amenities, and modern features. With the Santa Cruz, Hyundai completes its eight-vehicle lineup of safety award winners, providing buyers with exceptional crash protection across a range of vehicle formats.

Choosing the Right Hyundai: Features and Financing for First-Time Buyers

If you’re wondering about Hyundai financing for new drivers, our team is here to help! We offer flexible financing and leasing plans to make getting into your new ride easier than you thought. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re exploring financing options.

Understand Your Needs and Budget

First, consider how much room you need. A small sedan or crossover is a great option if you ride solo or with 1-2 other people most of the time. Larger SUVs are better for families or anyone who needs extra cargo space. Next, evaluate your typical driving patterns: daily commuters benefit from fuel-efficient models like small cars or EVs, while those needing off-road capability or towing power should look into SUVs.

New vs. Used Considerations

New Hyundais come with warranty coverage, zero wear, and the latest features. But like any new vehicle, they also come with higher costs and rapid depreciation. Used Hyundais offer significant savings, lower insurance premiums, and reduced depreciation impact. Consider which factors—initial cost, long-term value, feature requirements, or peace of mind—matter most for your situation.

Trust the Team at Wolfchase Hyundai to Help You Find Your New Hyundai!

At Wolfchase Hyundai, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of your car-buying journey. We understand that purchasing your first vehicle is a big milestone, and we take pride in helping you find the perfect Hyundai model for you! Get started by exploring our inventory online!

Whether you have questions about financing options, warranty coverage, or specific vehicle features, our knowledgeable staff is always here to help. Visit our showroom today and see why we’re the go-to Hyundai dealer in the Memphis area!

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Disclaimer by Wolfchase Hyundai:

Wolfchase Hyundai believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.