Peace of mind when it comes to a loved one’s safety is priceless, especially when that loved one is a teenage new driver. Parents and guardians are understandably anxious about dangers natural to roadways, but that anxiety can be calmed by the right vehicle designed to handle those dangers and protect what matters most. Below is a list of vehicles known for their reliability, safety features, and ease of use that may be good choices for teens who are first-time drivers — and the people who love them.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a well-known favorite among first-time car buyers and parents alike. Known for its reliability, excellent fuel economy, and reasonable price point, the Civic is a good well-rounded choice. Recent models come equipped with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Its reputation for longevity and low maintenance costs makes it a top pick for teens who do not have the time, desire, or resources to constantly visit a mechanic shop.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is another trusted and dependable choice for teenage drivers. It consistently ranks high in reliability and safety ratings. The Corolla offers a smooth ride, user-friendly automated systems, and standard safety features, including Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. These features from a well-known brand offer reassurance to parents while ensuring the safety of young drivers.
Subaru Impreza
Subaru is known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles, and the Subaru Impreza is no exception. This compact car combines reliability with robust safety features. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, is available on most Impreza models. Its all-wheel-drive capability provides added traction and stability, making it a good choice for teen drivers in various weather conditions.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra is a reliable and affordable option for teens. Hyundai prioritizes safety with features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assistance available in many Elantra trims. It also offers a comfortable interior, good fuel economy, and a user-friendly infotainment system. This makes it a practical choice for young drivers who need a dependable and stable vehicle.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte is known for its value and reliability. Kia offers driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control on higher trims, making it an attractive option for parents seeking a safe first car for their teens. Moreover, it provides a comfortable ride, intuitive technology features, and good fuel efficiency.
Ford Focus
The Ford Focus is a versatile compact car that has been a popular choice for first-time car buyers for years. It offers a range of engine options, making it suitable for various driving preferences. The Focus includes features like Ford’s MyKey system, allowing parents to set speed limits and audio volume restrictions for teen drivers. While the Focus has been discontinued in the U.S., it remains a reliable and cost-effective choice for those considering used vehicles.
Chevrolet Malibu
For parents seeking a midsize sedan for their teen, the Chevrolet Malibu is worth considering. It offers a protected and comfortable interior, a smooth ride, and a solid list of standard safety features, including a rearview camera. The Malibu’s reputation for reliability and affordability makes it a sensible choice for families.
When selecting a car for a precious family member, most will prioritize qualities like reliability, safety, and affordability. All of the options mentioned in this article possess these important qualities. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Subaru Impreza, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Malibu are all suitable options that combine essential factors for parent and guardian peace of mind. When your teen navigates the road in one of these models, you won’t have to worry.