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Hunting an Aussie first car that won’t bankrupt you or your dignity? Look for a 5-star ANCAP rating, cheap insurance, and servicing that doesn’t arrive every other fortnight.

Smart bets include the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Hyundai i30, Suzuki Swift, and Honda Jazz—reliable, frugal, and easy to park without sweating.

Check for a full service history, no warning lights, and tyres/brakes that aren’t auditioning for retirement; then do a pre-purchase inspection and a cold-start test.

Auto is fine, but a manual can be cheaper and nick-resistant; aim for under 120,000 km and pay more for condition than for the badge. Browse Tradingpost, set a firm budget (plus stamp duty, rego, and insurance), and save a few dollars for the coffee you’ll inevitably spill in week one.