When purchasing a car, insurance costs play a significant role in deciding which vehicle to go for, particularly for first-time drivers or those on a budget. Insurance groups, which range from 1 to 50, help determine the premium you’ll pay. Lower groups (1-4) generally mean more affordable insurance, making these cars ideal for those who want to save on running costs.

In this guide, we’ll look at some of the cars that fall into the lowest insurance groups – 1, 2, 3, and 4. If you’re looking for a new car that’s affordable to insure, these models might be perfect for you.


What Are Insurance Groups?

Before diving into specific models, it’s helpful to understand insurance groups. Insurers consider various factors when determining a car’s insurance group:

  • Engine size and power: Smaller engines tend to result in lower insurance premiums.
  • Repair costs: The more affordable and straightforward a car is to repair, the lower the insurance group.
  • Safety features: Cars with higher safety ratings generally end up in lower insurance groups.
  • Replacement costs: Cars with lower overall values tend to fall into lower insurance groups.

With this in mind, here are some of the cars in insurance groups 1 to 4 that are currently popular among drivers in the UK.


Cars in Insurance Group 1

  1. Volkswagen Up!
    The VW Up! is renowned for its compact size, efficiency, and modern design. This city car offers great fuel economy and low emissions, making it a cost-effective choice beyond just insurance. ➤ See our range of Volkswagen cars available at Summit Garage.
  2. Hyundai i10
    The Hyundai i10 is a great option for new drivers due to its ease of handling and affordable maintenance. It’s also spacious for a city car and provides surprising levels of comfort and tech for its class. ➤ See our range of Hyundai cars available at Summit Garage.
  3. Kia Picanto
    Known for its reliability and low running costs, the Picanto is a popular choice in group 1. Plus, it comes with Kia’s 7-year warranty, which adds peace of mind for budget-conscious drivers. ➤ See our range of Kia cars available at Summit Garage.


Cars in Insurance Group 2

  1. Ford Fiesta (1.0L Petrol)
    The Ford Fiesta is a well-loved model in the UK, especially in the 1.0-litre petrol variant. It offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, and it’s a solid option for drivers looking for a reliable all-rounder. ➤ See our range of Ford cars available at Summit Garage.
  2. Vauxhall Corsa
    Another popular car for new and experienced drivers alike, the Corsa combines affordability, comfort, and modern tech. The 1.2L engine variant falls into group 2, making it economical on insurance. ➤ See our range of Vauxhall cars available at Summit Garage.
  3. Toyota Aygo
    Known for its unique style and great fuel economy, the Toyota Aygo is one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. It’s also compact, making it ideal for city driving and small parking spaces. ➤ See our range of Toyota cars available at Summit Garage.


Cars in Insurance Group 3

  1. Nissan Micra
    The Nissan Micra has a long-standing reputation as a reliable and economical car. Its 1.0L petrol variant, in particular, is inexpensive to insure and provides a smooth driving experience. ➤ See our range of Nissan cars available at Summit Garage.
  2. Seat Ibiza
    The Ibiza combines style, comfort, and efficiency in a compact package. With sporty aesthetics and low running costs, it’s a practical choice that appeals to younger drivers or those after a stylish daily driver. ➤ See our range of Seat cars available at Summit Garage.
  3. Renault Clio
    With a sleek design and a reputation for reliability, the Clio is another excellent option. The 1.0-litre engine version is affordable to insure and offers a comfortable driving experience, especially in urban areas. ➤ See our range of Renault cars available at Summit Garage.


Cars in Insurance Group 4

  1. Skoda Fabia
    The Skoda Fabia provides plenty of space and comfort, making it an ideal small family car. The 1.0L MPI model falls into group 4, and its durability and low maintenance costs make it a worthwhile choice. ➤ See our range of Skoda cars available at Summit Garage.
  2. Mazda 2
    The Mazda 2 is known for its agile handling and sporty design. It’s a bit more powerful than some other small cars, yet it still falls within group 4, making it a good choice for those who want a touch of performance without high insurance costs. ➤ See our range of Mazda cars available at Summit Garage.
  3. Suzuki Swift
    Compact, economical, and fun to drive, the Suzuki Swift is another fantastic option. With a variety of trims to suit different budgets, it’s versatile enough for city driving and longer journeys. ➤ See our range of Suzuki cars available at Summit Garage.


Why Choose a Car in Insurance Groups 1-4?

Choosing a car in the lower insurance groups can help you save significantly over the years. Cars in groups 1-4 are generally compact, fuel-efficient and easy to drive, making them especially suited for city driving, younger drivers, and those looking to keep costs down.


Summit Garage: Helping You Find Affordable Cars

At Summit Garage, we understand the importance of finding the right vehicle at an affordable price. Our team is here to help you choose from a range of models in low insurance groups, ensuring you can drive confidently without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a new driver or just looking to save on running costs, we’ve got a car that suits your needs.

Pop into our showroom today, or explore our available models of used cars to find a car that’s both budget-friendly and reliable.