I have built Ofna, Jammin, and Hot Bodies. I must say that the Hot Bodies was the easiest kit to put together with excellent instructions. However, the Jammin plastics seem to be a little better quality. As stated above, it would be hard not to pick a good quality kit from any of the "top" manufactures. It is Buggy and Truggy heaven out there now
You did ask if a Truggy might be a better choice for a "starter" vehicle. In my opinion, a Truggy is the best of the 1/8th scale vehicles.