Choosing the right first car for your teen is a significant decision that balances safety, affordability, and reliability. For many parents and guardians, the primary concerns are ensuring that the car is dependable and equipped with essential safety features, while also being budget-friendly.
For teens, the car is often a symbol of freedom and independence, so finding one that they’ll enjoy driving is equally important. This guide aims to help you navigate the process of selecting an affordable and suitable first car for your teen.
We will cover various aspects such as safety ratings, fuel efficiency, insurance costs, and maintenance requirements, providing a detailed look at some of the best options available on the market.
Whether you are looking for a compact car, a sedan, or an SUV, this guide will offer valuable insights to help you make an informed decision that ensures peace of mind and satisfaction for both you and your teen.
Factors to Consider
- Safety Features: Modern safety features are crucial for inexperienced drivers.
- Reliability: A dependable car minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
- Affordability: Both the purchase price and long-term costs like maintenance and insurance should be considered.
- Fuel Efficiency: Good mileage can save a lot on fuel costs over time.
- Size and Handling: Smaller cars are generally easier for teens to handle.
Now, let’s look at some excellent first cars for your teens.
Note: To make sure the recommended cars were within the budget, we explored listings on platforms like Autotrader, Cargurus, KBB, Cars.com and Carmax.
Additionally, we consulted the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to ensure the recommended vehicles have top safety ratings, ensuring peace of mind for parents and young drivers alike. Also, we checked the reliability score from the JD Power reliability test.
1. Honda Civic (2016-2019)
The Honda Civic is a popular choice for first-time drivers due to its excellent balance of safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
Key Features:
- Safety: The Civic comes with a range of safety features, including a rearview camera, stability control, and multiple airbags. Later models include advanced safety systems like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
- Reliability (80 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings) : Honda is known for its dependable cars. The Civic’s engine and transmission are built to last with regular maintenance.
- Affordability: Used models from 2016 to 2019 typically range from $15,000 to $20,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: With a fuel economy of around 32-42 mpg, it’s economical to run.
2. Toyota Corolla (2017-2020)
The Toyota Corolla is another excellent choice, known for its reliability and low cost of ownership.
Key Features:
- Safety: The Corolla includes features like a rearview camera and Toyota Safety Sense, which provides pre-collision warning, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control.
- Reliability (83 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): Toyota’s reputation for building durable cars makes the Corolla a smart choice for teens.
- Affordability: You can find used Corollas from 2017 to 2020 for around $14,000 to $18,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 30-40 mpg.
3. Mazda 3 (2016-2019)
The Mazda 3 stands out for its stylish design and enjoyable driving experience, making it a fun choice for teens.
Key Features:
- Safety: Standard features include a rearview camera and stability control. Higher trims offer blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Reliability (80 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): Mazda has a good track record for reliability, and the Mazda 3 is no exception.
- Affordability: Prices for 2016-2019 models typically range from $14,000 to $19,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It delivers a respectable fuel economy of 28-37 mpg.
4. Ford Focus (2016-2018)
The Ford Focus is a compact car that offers a good mix of comfort, performance, and affordability.
Key Features:
- Safety: The Focus includes a rearview camera and standard airbags. Higher trims offer additional safety features.
- Reliability (75 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): While earlier models had some reliability issues, the 2016-2018 models have improved significantly.
- Affordability: Used models from these years can be found for $10,000 to $15,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of around 26-38 mpg.
5. Hyundai Elantra (2017-2020)
The Hyundai Elantra is a great first car option due to its affordability, warranty coverage, and modern features.
Key Features:
- Safety: Standard features include a rearview camera and stability control. Advanced safety features are available on higher trims.
- Reliability (80 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): The Elantra has a strong reliability record, backed by Hyundai’s extensive warranty.
- Affordability: Prices for 2017-2020 models typically range from $12,000 to $18,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 28-37 mpg.
6. Kia Soul (2016-2019)
The Kia Soul is known for its unique design and spacious interior, making it a practical choice for teens.
Key Features:
- Safety: It comes with a rearview camera and stability control. Higher trims offer advanced safety features.
- Reliability (80 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): Kia has made significant improvements in reliability, and the Soul benefits from this.
- Affordability: Used models from 2016-2019 typically range from $10,000 to $15,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 24-30 mpg.
7. Chevrolet Cruze (2016-2019)
The Chevrolet Cruze is a compact car that offers a smooth ride, good fuel economy, and a range of features.
Key Features:
- Safety: Standard features include a rearview camera and stability control. Higher trims offer additional safety features like forward collision alert.
- Reliability (84 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): The Cruze has a decent reliability record and is relatively easy to maintain.
- Affordability: Prices for 2016-2019 models typically range from $11,000 to $16,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 28-38 mpg.
8. Subaru Impreza (2017-2020)
The Subaru Impreza is known for its all-wheel-drive capability, which can be a great safety feature in regions with challenging weather.
Key Features:
- Safety: The Impreza includes a rearview camera, stability control, and multiple airbags. Advanced safety features are available on higher trims.
- Reliability (79 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): Subaru has a strong reputation for durability, and the Impreza is no exception.
- Affordability: Used models from 2017-2020 typically range from $14,000 to $20,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 28-38 mpg.
9. Volkswagen Jetta (2016-2019)
The Volkswagen Jetta offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and good fuel economy.
Key Features:
- Safety: Standard features include a rearview camera and stability control. Higher trims offer additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring.
- Reliability (82 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): The Jetta has a solid reliability record and is known for its durability.
- Affordability: Prices for 2016-2019 models typically range from $12,000 to $18,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 28-40 mpg.
10. Nissan Sentra (2017-2020)
The Nissan Sentra is a compact car that offers good value for money, with a range of features and a comfortable ride.
Key Features:
- Safety: The Sentra includes a rearview camera and stability control. Advanced safety features are available on higher trims.
- Reliability (76 points out of 100 in JD Power Reliability Ratings): Nissan has a good reputation for reliability, and the Sentra benefits from this.
- Affordability: Used models from 2017-2020 typically range from $11,000 to $17,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers a fuel economy of 29-37 mpg.
Conclusion
By considering factors such as safety features, fuel efficiency, insurance costs, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision that will provide peace of mind and satisfaction.
Whether you opt for a new or used car, from a dealership or a private seller, this guide has provided valuable insights to help you navigate the process.
Preparing your teen for the responsibilities of driving is equally important, and with the right car and proper guidance, they can enjoy a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
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