Getting your driver’s licence is a pinnacle moment in any person’s life. It unlocks a sense of freedom and makes commuting to where you need to be that much easier. However, the road to getting your full G licence can sometimes be a little bumpy. In the past, isure has gone in-depth on the cost of insurance for G2 drivers, as well as what you need to know when it comes to getting your G2 licence. However, a topic that has yet to be covered is which type of vehicle you should be looking for when it comes to taking your G2 driving test. Why? Because you’ll want to feel comfortable and at ease behind the wheel on test day, amongst other things. Luckily, isure has everything you need to know when it comes to choosing a car to drive for your G2 test.
G2 test vehicle requirements
Before we dive into which types of vehicles are the most recommended, it is important to first take a look at the requirements. Before your road test begins, your driver will perform a basic vehicle check to make sure you are set to take the test with it. During this check, they will make sure car components, such as your turn signals and brake lights, are in working order.
On top of this basic check, your vehicle must meet the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) standards. If you fail to do so, your test will be “out-of-order.” If your test is deemed out of order, you will be unable to take the road test. On top of this, you will lose 50% of the road test fee. The remaining 50% can remain as a credit on your driving record and if you choose so, can be applied when re-booking your test.
If one of the following is detected on your vehicle, your test will be “out-of-order”:
- The vehicle has no roof (convertible)
- The doors do not work
- Foot brakes or dual brakes do not work
- Brake lights are missing/do not work
- Cracks in windshield
- An in-vehicle recording device that is facing the passenger seat (driver)
- No rear bumper
- No seat
- No mirrors
- Fuel leaks
There are many more things that can declare your vehicle out-of-order. A full list is available on the Ontario DriveTest website.
The best cars to drive for your G2 test
Whether it’s just a rental for your test or a car you plan on keeping afterwards, picking the right vehicle as a new driver can be tricky! On top of this, choosing the right car to drive for your G2 test can make a big difference in passing or failing your test. Making sure you can see clearly, park easily and be comfortable overall is key when it comes to making sure you pass the test with flying colours.
When searching, remember not just any car can be used for a driving test, or else your test may be deemed out-of-order. Remember, if purchasing a new vehicle isn’t feasible, most, if not all, of these models can be used or rented. In no particular order, here are five cars we recommend using for your driving test:
1. Toyota Corolla
What better way to kick off this list than with the best-selling car model in the world? Additionally, it is among one of the most popular test cars for driving schools in Ontario. The Toyota Corolla hosts a variety of safety features and on top of this, is extremely cost-effective and known to be reliable. For many years, the Toyota Corolla has been given multiple 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA and multiple “good” rankings in the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety’s crash tests. All in all, it is an easy, smooth drive.
The Toyota Corolla is also one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the market today. On average, a full 50 L tank will last you almost 700 km of driving time. You can rest assured knowing you will not be disappointed having a Toyota Corolla as your first vehicle or your test vehicle.
2. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a classic vehicle, and for good reason. It is a dependable car that brings enough to the table to excite anybody starting their driving journey. Not only is it safe, but for years, the Honda Civic has boasted an impressive price point. Even the newest models have many features that can’t be beaten for the price. The base model offers a 2L four-cylinder engine and 158 horsepower, yet also exceeds any expectations of safety with its front, side and overhead airbags. To put yourself more at ease, the Honda Civic has been awarded numerous excellent scores when it comes to crash tests. What’s not to love?
3. Mini Cooper
Don’t be fooled by the size! This may seem out of left field to recommend to new drivers and people taking their test, but the Mini Cooper has proven for years that is a great and safe vehicle. This stylish vehicle offers driver, passenger, front and side airbags, on top of brake assistance and excellent traction control. The Mini Cooper also holds a lot of power for its size, yet still provides an excellent amount of control and handle. Contrary to popular belief, the price point is also reasonable, depending on the model. The Cooper Mini 3-Door model is one of the most affordable cars on the market today and is a great choice for new drivers!
4. Toyota Prius
Compared to the others, the Prius holds a bit heftier of a price tag. However, it is for good reason! The Toyota Prius is boasted as one of the best cars on the market today. This is especially true when it comes to passing your driving test. With electronic stability control as well as traction control, it is an extremely stress-free car to drive. Similar to the Corolla, many driving schools in Ontario choose to use a Toyota Prius as their instructor vehicles. This is due to its fantastic safety rating and incredible control. Overall, you know you’ll be doing your part to protect the environment with this all-in-one hybrid.
5. Volkswagen Golf
Another incredible option when it comes to new drivers and their tests is the Volkswagen Golf. Though unassuming, this German vehicle has everything you need. From affordability and accuracy to smoothness, this car is perfect for any newcomer on the road. It has tons of safety features, as well as rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring.
Additionally, it has automatic emergency braking and forward-collision warning. The 2018 Golf also earned an immaculate five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was directly behind the Corolla as the top safety pick from the IIHS. If you’re looking for a moderately priced, safe vehicle that differs from the classics when doing your test, the Golf is perfect for you!
We hope this list of the best cars to drive for your G2 test. Remember, no matter what type of car you drive, having the proper insurance once you get your licence is mandatory. If you’re in the market for new car insurance, why not check out isure? We will find you the best rates when it comes to premiums, along with customer service you can always count on. Contact us or request a quote today!
