Choosing a car for a teenager is a big decision. Safety, reliability, and affordability are paramount. Teen drivers lack experience, making them more prone to accidents. This guide, drawing from data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports (CR), provides recommendations for Good Cars For Teens, encompassing both used and new models.
Used Cars: Best Choices for Teen Drivers
The “Best Choices” category prioritizes used vehicles with exceptional safety ratings and reliability. All listed vehicles weigh over 2,750 pounds and have earned good ratings from IIHS in crucial crashworthiness tests like moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests. They also boast acceptable or good ratings in the driver-side small overlap test. Furthermore, these vehicles feature standard automatic emergency braking (AEB) with advanced or superior ratings from IIHS.
Reliability is another crucial factor. Best Choices have above-average reliability scores from CR and excellent emergency handling capabilities. They also exhibit impressive braking performance, stopping from 60 mph to zero in 145 feet or less. Prices listed are average US values for the lowest trim level and earliest applicable model year, sourced from Kelley Blue Book.
Best Choices: Sedans and Small Cars
- Toyota Corolla (Sedan/Hatchback): Model years 2017 or newer for the sedan and 2019 or newer for the hatchback offer excellent value and safety.
- Toyota Prius: Known for its fuel efficiency and safety features, the 2017 or newer models are a solid choice.
- Mazda 3 (Sedan/Hatchback): 2021-22 models offer stylish designs and strong safety features.
Best Choices: SUVs and Minivans
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2020 and 2023 models provide ample space and good safety features.
- Toyota RAV4: A popular choice for its reliability and safety, 2017 and newer models are recommended.
- Honda CR-V: Known for its safety and spaciousness, the CR-V (2020 or newer) is an excellent option.
- Toyota Sienna (Minivan): 2018-20 models offer ample passenger and cargo space with top-notch safety.
Used Cars: Good Choices for Teen Drivers
“Good Choices” provides more budget-friendly options without significantly compromising safety. These vehicles meet similar safety criteria to “Best Choices,” but may not include standard AEB.
Good Choices: Sedans and Small Cars
- Mazda 3 (Sedan/Hatchback): 2014-17 models (built after October 2013) offer a more affordable entry point into the Mazda 3 lineup.
- Honda Civic Sedan: The 2014 Honda Civic remains a safe and reliable option.
- Toyota Prius: 2014-16 models (built after November 2013) offer fuel efficiency and safety at a lower price point.
Good Choices: SUVs and Minivans
- Mazda CX-5: The 2016 CX-5 is a reliable and safe SUV at a more accessible price.
- Honda CR-V: 2015-19 CR-Vs provide a balance of safety, reliability, and affordability.
- Honda Odyssey (Minivan): The 2017 Odyssey is a reliable and spacious option for families.
New Cars for Teen Drivers: Top Safety Picks
For those seeking the latest safety technology, new cars offer advanced features and comprehensive protection. All listed vehicles are 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award winners and include standard vehicle-to-vehicle AEB. They also have excellent reliability, handling, and braking performance according to CR.
- Subaru Impreza: The 2024 Impreza offers all-wheel drive and advanced safety features.
- Mazda 3: The 2024 Mazda 3 continues its tradition of safety and style.
- Honda CR-V: The redesigned 2024 CR-V provides cutting-edge safety technology.
- Honda Odyssey: The 2024 Odyssey offers top-tier safety and family-friendly features.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety for Teen Drivers
Choosing the right car for a teen driver is vital. This guide provides a range of options, from affordable used cars to new models with advanced safety technologies. By prioritizing safety, reliability, and affordability, parents can equip their teens with a vehicle that helps mitigate risks and fosters safe driving habits. Remember to always check for recalls before purchasing any used vehicle.
