The Ultimate GTA 5 Starter Car Guide: Get Rolling in Los Santos!
So, you’ve just landed in the chaotic, sun-drenched streets of Los Santos and Blaine County. You’re itching to make a name for yourself, amass a fortune, and maybe cause a little (or a lot) of mayhem along the way. But first, you need wheels. The right set of wheels can be the difference between becoming a legend and becoming roadkill. The burning question then, is simple:
The Karin Kuruma (Armored) is hands-down the best car to buy first in GTA 5 Online. It’s not the fastest, it’s not the flashiest, but it’s an absolute game-changer for early-game survival and mission completion. It offers bulletproof protection, allowing you and your crew to safely navigate the dangers of Los Santos, especially when tackling missions that involve heavy gunfire. It’s your mobile fortress, your lifeline, and your ticket to early success.
Why the Karin Kuruma (Armored) Reigns Supreme
Forget the flashy supercars and the off-road beasts for now. The Armored Kuruma offers unparalleled utility for new players. Here’s why:
- Bulletproof Protection: This is the Kuruma’s killer feature. In GTA Online, gunfights are frequent and often unavoidable. The Armored Kuruma shields you from small arms fire, allowing you to safely engage enemies, complete missions, and escape sticky situations.
- Mission Master: Many early missions in GTA Online involve waves of enemies shooting at you. The Kuruma turns these missions from frustrating slogs into manageable tasks. Simply drive up to the objective, use the windows as firing ports, and let the chaos unfold while you remain relatively safe.
- Affordable (Relatively): While not dirt cheap, the Armored Kuruma is reasonably priced, especially considering its utility. It’s an investment that pays for itself many times over by allowing you to complete missions more efficiently and survive longer.
- Four-Door Capacity: Bring your friends along for the ride! The Armored Kuruma can comfortably seat four players, making it ideal for coordinating heists and missions with your crew.
- Decent Handling: While it’s not a sports car, the Kuruma handles well enough for most situations. It’s stable, predictable, and easy to control, even in high-pressure situations.
- Increased Survivability: By protecting you from bullets, the Kuruma allows you to learn the game’s mechanics, map, and mission structures without constantly dying. This translates to faster progression and less frustration.
Beyond the Kuruma: Alternative Early-Game Vehicles
While the Armored Kuruma is the top recommendation, consider these alternatives depending on your playstyle and budget:
- Elegy RH8: If you are registered with Rockstar’s Social Club, this car is FREE. Even if you don’t want to register, it only costs $95,000. The Elegy RH8 is a great starter car because of its speed and maneuverability. Although it’s not armored, it’s a great option for racing and getting around Los Santos quickly.
- Duke O’Death: Another excellent armored vehicle, though it might take slightly more effort to unlock. It boasts impressive durability and firepower, making it a formidable option for combat-focused players.
- BF Weevil: A fun and surprisingly capable compact car. While not armored, its small size and nimble handling make it surprisingly effective in urban environments.
Leveling Up Your Ride: Customization and Upgrades
Once you’ve acquired your starter car, don’t forget to visit Los Santos Customs. Upgrading your engine, brakes, suspension, and armor can significantly improve your vehicle’s performance and survivability. While visual modifications are purely cosmetic, they allow you to personalize your ride and express your style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do first when starting GTA Online?
Complete the GTA Online tutorial. This introduces you to key game mechanics, contact characters, and early missions. It’s a valuable learning experience that sets you up for success. The first contact, Lamar Davis, will introduce you to street racing, robberies, and the importance of vehicle insurance.
2. How can I make money quickly in GTA 5 Online?
Start with Contact Missions like those given by Lamar, Simeon, and Gerald. These offer decent payouts for relatively low effort. Heists are also lucrative, but require a higher upfront investment and coordination with other players. Investing in a business like a Special Cargo Warehouse is one of the most effective ways to make money as a solo player.
3. What are the best businesses to invest in early on?
Special Cargo Warehouses are a great starting point for solo players. As you progress, consider investing in a Bunker or a Vehicle Warehouse for more lucrative opportunities. The Kosatka Submarine is also a worthwhile investment as it allows access to the Cayo Perico Heist.
4. Is the Armored Kuruma still worth buying in the late game?
While its dominance diminishes as you acquire more specialized vehicles, the Armored Kuruma remains useful for certain missions and situations. It’s a reliable fallback option for when you need guaranteed protection.
5. What is the fastest car in GTA Online?
The fastest cars in GTA Online change with each update, but currently, some of the fastest include HSW Custom Cars, BF Weevil Custom, Ocelot Pariah, and Grotti Itali RSX. However, these are often expensive and require significant upgrades.
6. What is the best value car in GTA Online?
The Annis Elegy RH8, Grotti Brioso R/A, and Pegassi Bati 801/801RR offer excellent performance for their price (or in the Elegy’s case, it is free). The Karin Kuruma (Armored) also fits into this category due to its immense utility.
7. What are some of the most wasteful purchases in GTA Online?
The Yacht, Luxor & Swift Deluxe, Orbital Cannon, Arena War Vehicles, expensive Boats, and cosmetic upgrades offer little practical value and are primarily status symbols.
8. What is the easiest supercar to drive in GTA 5?
The Annis S80RR is known for its excellent handling and control, making it a great choice for players who prefer a less demanding driving experience.
9. What is the hardest vehicle to drive in GTA 5?
Vehicles such as the Kraken Submersibles Kraken, RM-10 Bombushka, and Pegassi Ultralight are notoriously difficult to control.
10. What is the most hated vehicle in GTA Online?
The Oppressor Mk II is widely disliked due to its overpowered missiles and maneuverability, often used for griefing other players.
11. What is the most useful Warstock vehicle to buy?
The Kosatka Submarine is arguably the most useful Warstock vehicle, as it unlocks the highly profitable Cayo Perico Heist.
12. Can I sell a full bunker solo in GTA Online?
Selling a fully stocked bunker solo is generally not recommended due to time constraints and the potential for multiple delivery vehicles. Aim to sell when your bunker is only 25% full to ensure a manageable solo delivery.
13. What should I invest in if I have lots of money in GTA Online?
If you have substantial capital, consider investing in businesses like the Agency, Kosatka Submarine, Auto Shop, and Acid Lab. These offer lucrative opportunities for generating income.
14. What should I do in GTA Online if I have everything?
Explore Los Santos, go on heists with friends, create a nightclub, go to Flight School, create the perfect ride, go to the shooting range, go shopping, or terrorize other players (at your own risk, of course!). The possibilities are endless!
15. Where can I learn more about game-based learning and the impact of games on society?
Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They conduct research and explore the educational and social aspects of video games. You can discover more here: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right starter car in GTA 5 Online is crucial for establishing yourself in the game. While the temptation to buy a flashy supercar might be strong, prioritizing utility and protection will ultimately lead to faster progress and a more enjoyable experience. The Karin Kuruma (Armored) is the undisputed champion for new players, offering the protection and reliability needed to thrive in the chaotic world of Los Santos. Get it, upgrade it, and start building your empire! Good luck, and may your first heist be a smashing success!