India, March 12 -- Learning to drive in a crowded city can be intimidating. Traffic density, tight lanes and constant stop-and-go conditions can make early driving experiences stressful. The right car, however, can significantly ease the learning curve.

Compact dimensions, light controls, good visibility and a forgiving powertrain are all traits that make a car beginner-friendly. Here are five cars I would pick to learn to drive in the city without unnecessary stress, along with a few useful features that make them easier to live with.

The Tata Tiago remains one of the most approachable hatchbacks for new drivers. Its compact footprint, stable feel and predictable controls make it easy to manoeuvre in dense traffic and narrow city stree...