Gumtree Sees Surge in First-Time Car Activity as Nearly One Million New Drivers Hit the Road

After several years of well-documented backlogs in practical driving test availability, a record 953,010 practical tests were passed in 2025, the highest number since records began in 2008*. As newly qualified drivers finally secure their licences, Gumtree, one of the UK’s leading online marketplace for affordable vehicles, is seeing a sharp rise in activity from first-time buyers.

Momentum has carried into 2026, with January test passes up by 17% year-on-year, fuelling one of the strongest starts to the used-car market in recent years for both buying and selling. 

This wave of newly qualified drivers is translating directly into demand. Cars priced under £5,000 on Gumtree, the typical first-time buyer budget, have attracted nearly 10 million views in the opening weeks of 2026 alone. Enquiries and replies also rose 25% in January 2026 compared with December 2025.

With nearly half of 2025’s successful test-passes estimated to be under 21, affordability remains critical. As many young adults continue living at home longer due to cost-of-living pressures, making access to an affordable car increasingly essential for work, education and independence.

What Britain’s First-Time Drivers are Searching For 

Data from the first 40 days of 2026 reveals clear preferences: affordable, practical hatchbacks from trusted brands with low running and insurance costs.

Most‑Viewed Car Brands Under £5,000 on Gumtree (First 40 Days of 2026)

Ford and Vauxhall top the rankings, reflecting their reputation for reliability, low ownership costs and wide parts availability.These brands have consistently been top choices for first-time drivers, and the data shows that trend is only strengthening.

Most‑Viewed Car Models Under £5,000 on Gumtree (First 40 Days of 2026)

The top models reinforce what first-time buyers prioritise: low insurance groups, easy handling and strong reliability. The Vauxhall Corsa takes the top spot, a long-standing favourite among new drivers thanks to its low running costs and wide availability. With the Ford Fiesta following closely, continuing its legacy as one of the UK’s most popular first cars. 

Louis Maxwell, Motoring Expert at Gumtree, comments: “We’re seeing a new generation of drivers turning to Gumtree as their first stop for affordable, reliable cars. Demand for sub-£5,000 vehicles is incredibly strong, creating real opportunity not just for buyers, but for sellers too. If you have a second car you no longer need, or you’re considering upgrading, now is a great time to list it and make some extra money”.

The surge in first time buyers means sellers are benefitting from:

With nearly a million new drivers entering the market and affordability more important than ever, Gumtree expects demand for budget‑friendly vehicles to remain high throughout 2026.

Whether you’re a first‑time buyer searching for a reliable starter car, or a seller looking to make extra money by listing a vehicle you no longer need, now is one of the best times in years to be active on Gumtree.

*https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/driving-test-and-theory-test-data-cars&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1771002734127930&usg=AOvVaw01YFFrSq5K0wXU8QAPkmVT