Finding the perfect used car for a teenager can be tough, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports have teamed up to show the best used cars for teen drivers in 2023. These cars are safe, affordable, and offer great value and protection for your young driver.
But what makes these cars special? Let’s take a closer look at the top used cars for teens that meet all the important criteria.
Key Takeaways
- Safety and affordability are key when picking a used car for teen drivers.
- The IIHS and Consumer Reports offer expert advice on the safest and most budget-friendly pre-owned vehicles.
- There’s a wide range of reliable and fuel-efficient used cars for teens, from compact sedans to midsize SUVs.
- When choosing the best first car for a new driver, look at reliability ratings, emergency handling, and crash test scores.
- Looking at both used and new car options can help parents find the perfect car for their teen’s needs.
Safety and Value: Key Factors for Teenage Drivers
Selecting the right vehicle for teenage drivers involves prioritizing safety and value. Teen drivers, who are less experienced and more prone to distractions, face crash rates nearly four times higher than older drivers.
Vehicles equipped with advanced safety features are crucial in mitigating these risks and providing peace of mind for families.
The Importance of Safety for Teenage Drivers
Teenagers often engage in risky behaviors such as speeding and neglecting to wear seat belts. Their limited judgment and tendency towards impulsive actions can result in hazardous situations.
Utilizing cars with safety technologies like electronic stability control and automatic emergency braking can significantly enhance their safety in the event of an accident.
Finding a Cost-Effective and Safe Vehicle
While safety is paramount, economic constraints often influence families when purchasing vehicles for teens.
Affordable and safe car choices are accessible through diligent research and by consulting organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Kelley Blue Book.
A balance between cost and safety allows families to secure vehicles that not only offer good reliability and safety features but also fit within financial boundaries.
This approach helps in choosing cars and SUVs that earn good ratings and are among the safest new cars and recommended used vehicles for teenagers.
The Selection Process: IIHS and Consumer Reports Recommendations
Choosing the right used car for teen drivers is crucial. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports offer great advice. They check safety and reliability to make sure the cars are safe and affordable for young drivers.
To get a recommendation, a car must pass tough tests. It needs to be over 2,750 pounds and get good safety ratings from IIHS. It also needs to do well in specific crash tests.
Reliability is key too. Cars recommended by Consumer Reports are known for being dependable. They can handle daily use without breaking down often. They also stop well in emergencies and have good brakes.
| Safety and Reliability Criteria | IIHS and Consumer Reports Recommendations |
| Curb Weight | Greater than 2,750 pounds |
| IIHS Ratings | Good in original moderate overlap front, original side, roof strength, and head restraint tests; Acceptable or good in driver-side small overlap test |
| Reliability Scores | Above-average from Consumer Reports |
| Emergency Handling | 3 or higher out of 5 |
| Dry Braking Distance | 145 feet or less |
The IIHS and Consumer Reports give teen drivers and their families a solid choice for used cars. They focus on safety, reliability, and affordability.
Top Used Cars for Teens in 2023: Most Popular Picks
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports have compiled a list of the best choices for used cars for teens in 2023, focusing on affordability, safety, and performance.
They recommend a variety of reliable vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and minivans, all which boast good or acceptable ratings in safety and handling.
Small Cars
For parents on a budget, the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic are top picks. These small cars are not only safe and reliable, but also offer good handling and are available under $10,000 for used models.
Midsize Cars
The Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry are recommended vehicles for those seeking a bit more space and power, without breaking the bank. These midsize cars provide a good balance of cost and capability, with prices ranging from $12,000 to $18,000 for pre-owned versions.
Large Cars
Teens in need of more room might appreciate the Toyota Avalon and Buick LaCrosse. These large cars start at used car prices from $15,000 to $20,000, offering spacious interiors and good driving dynamics.
Small SUVs
Popular among teen drivers, small SUVs like the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are praised for their safety features and practicality. These vehicles are typically priced between $12,000 and $18,000.
Midsize SUVs
For those requiring additional space, midsize SUVs such as the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander are great options.
These recommended vehicles come with advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies, with used models available between $15,000 and $22,000.
Minivans
The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna are excellent choices for teens who have families or lead active lifestyles, offering ample space and reliability. These minivans are found in the used market for $12,000 to $20,000.
In their evaluations, the IIHS and Consumer Reports emphasize vehicles that are not only safe and reliable but also provide good balance and handling. These attributes are critical for helping teens find a vehicle that is safe and easy to operate, making them top safety pick plus candidates.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Used Car for Teens
When selecting a used car for a teen, it’s vital to look beyond just car prices and consider crucial aspects like safety features, reliability, and good mileage.
A vehicle with good mileage not only indicates that it has been well-maintained but also ensures better fuel efficiency and lower running costs over time.
Aim for models with excellent reliability records and solid emergency handling capabilities, supported by data from reputable sources such as Consumer Reports and the IIHS.
Reliability and Maintenance
Choosing a reliable car is essential, particularly for drivers 20 and older, who require dependable transportation without frequent costly repairs.
Consult reliability ratings and customer reviews to identify models known for their durability.
Handling and Safety Features
For new and younger drivers, a car that performs well in emergency situations is paramount. Vehicles that have scored high in IIHS testing for emergency handling should be considered as they provide better control and quicker response times in critical moments.
Crash Test Outcomes
Safety should be a priority when choosing a car for teens. Opt for cars that have excelled in crash tests conducted by the IIHS, especially those that have earned the Top Safety Pick Plus rating.
These vehicles offer superior protection in frontal, side, and rear impacts, ensuring the safety of young drivers and their passengers.
Driver Assistance Technologies
In addition to good mechanical reliability, look for cars equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies.
Features like automatic braking, lane keeping assist, and other proactive safety measures can significantly enhance safety and are recommended for teen drivers.
Model Year and Insurance Considerations
Consider newer model years when choosing a car, as they are more likely to contain updated safety features and may also influence car insurance rates favorably.
Brands like Mazda and Honda Accord are often cited as some of the best cars for teens because of their blend of safety, reliability, and affordability.
Focus on these key aspects—reliability, safety features, crash test ratings, and driver assistance technology—to ensure you make a well-rounded decision in car buying that prioritizes the safety and reliability of the vehicle for your teen.
New Car Recommendations for Teen Drivers
Looking for a new car for your teen driver? Consider these new vehicles that are safe and have the latest features. The IIHS and Consumer Reports have picked out some top cars for young drivers.
These cars are IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ winners. They offer great crash protection and come with automatic emergency braking. This can really help lower the chance of accidents and keep your teen safe.
Not only are these cars safe, but they’re also reliable and handle well in emergencies. If you can afford a new car, these are great choices for teens. They offer a mix of safety, reliability, and value.
| Model | IIHS Rating | Safety Features |
| Honda Civic | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | Standard automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control |
| Toyota Camry | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | Standard automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring |
| Subaru Outback | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | Standard automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and EyeSight driver assist technology |
These cars are great choices for parents and teens who want safety and the latest features. They’re a smart pick for your next car.
Conclusion
Finding the right used car for a teen driver is key. It’s about safety, cost, and reliability. Groups like the IIHS and Consumer Reports help families pick the best cars. They focus on safety, crash tests, and performance.
These groups have made picking a car easier for families. They suggest cars that are safe and good for teen drivers. This gives parents and guardians peace of mind.
Choosing between a used or new car is important. The goal is to find a car that protects and values the teen driver. The article mentions the best used cars for teens in 2023. These cars are a good start for parents looking for safety and value.
By using the advice from experts, families can make smart choices. They can pick cars that fit their needs and budget. This helps teen drivers feel confident on the road.
This article offers great advice for families. It helps them choose safe and affordable cars for their teen drivers. With these expert-approved cars, teen drivers can stay safe and enjoy driving.
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FAQ
What factors are considered when choosing the best used cars for teens in 2023?
The IIHS and Consumer Reports look at safety and reliability. They check vehicle weight, crash test ratings, reliability scores, and how well the car handles in emergencies. They also look at the car’s braking performance.
Why is safety the primary consideration when selecting used cars for teenage drivers?
Teenagers are more likely to crash because they are still learning and face many distractions. They are nearly four times more likely to crash than drivers over 20. A safe car can help protect them and their passengers.
How do the IIHS and Consumer Reports recommendations balance safety and affordability for used cars suitable for teens?
The IIHS and Consumer Reports suggest cars that are safe and affordable. Prices range from under $6,000 to nearly $20,000. These cars are reliable and offer peace of mind for new drivers and their families.
What specific safety and performance criteria are used to select the recommended used cars for teens?
The recommended cars are over 2,750 pounds and pass IIHS crash tests. They have high reliability scores and perform well in emergencies. They also have strong brakes.
Are there any new car recommendations for teen drivers as well?
Yes, the IIHS and Consumer Reports also suggest new cars for teens. They look for cars with the IIHS Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards. These cars come with standard automatic emergency braking.