There is a lot to look forward to in 2025. For some households, there is the anticipation of a new teen driver in the family. Whether you’re ready or not, the almost inevitable car-sharing debate is on the horizon. If you are considering purchasing a second or third vehicle for your household, there are a lot of factors to consider. Although safety concerns are paramount, money is also a part of the equation. You’ll want to give your teen access to a car but also want the car insurance rate to be affordable. So, what are the best cars for teen drivers? The IIHS and CR agencies partner each year to identify the best new and used cars for teens to help shoppers choose dependable and safe vehicles. Let’s take a look below.
What to consider before purchasing a car for your teen driver
Reliability
For many reasons, reliability is crucial for a teen when choosing a car. It ensures the vehicle is safe and dependable, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns that could leave them stranded in unsafe situations. A reliable vehicle also minimizes maintenance costs and unexpected repairs, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for families. Also, make sure to look through the reviews and stats to see what would be the most fuel-efficient and will give you the best deal.
Cost/Affordability
Cost and affordability are key factors when buying a car for a teen. It’s essential to balance a safe, reliable vehicle with what fits within the family budget. Teens are often new drivers, so an affordable car helps manage expenses like insurance, fuel, and potential repairs without causing financial strain. Choosing an affordable option also makes sense for a vehicle that may experience wear and tear from inexperienced driving.
Safety features
Safety features are vital when buying a car for a teen, as they help protect inexperienced drivers in the event of an accident and reduce the risk of collisions. Modern safety technologies like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and advanced systems like lane-keeping assist or automatic emergency braking provide an added layer of security. Prioritizing safety ensures peace of mind for parents and fosters a safer driving experience for teens.
Safest used cars for teen drivers: Best choices
Small cars
- Ford C-Max Hybrid (2014-16)
- Toyota Prius (2014; built after November 2013)
- Subaru Impreza sedan or wagon (2018, 2022)
Mid-size cars
- Mazda 6 (2014-18)
- Subaru Outback (2015-18, 2022)
- Volkswagen Passat (2017)
Large cars
- Toyota Avalon (2015 or newer)
- Hyundai Genesis (2016)
Small SUVs
- Honda CR-V (2015 or newer)
- Honda HR-V (2017 or newer, built after March 2017)
- Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) (2018)
- Mazda CX-5 (2014 or newer, built after October 2013)
- Mazda CX-3 (2016, 2019)
- Subaru Forester (2018 or newer)
- Toyota RAV4 (2015 or newer, built after November 2014)
- Volvo XC60 (2013, 2017)
Mid-size SUVs
- Acura RDX (2016 or newer)
- Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (2018)
- Nissan Murano (2015 or newer)
- Toyota Highlander (2014 or newer)
Minivans
- Toyota Sienna (2015-18)
Pickup trucks
- Toyota Tacoma extended cab or crew cab (2016 or newer)
Safest used cars for teen drivers: Good choices
Small cars
- Chevrolet Volt (2013)
- Honda Civic sedan (2013-2015, 2020 or newer)
- Honda Civic/Civic Hybrid
- Kia Soul (2013, 2017, 2019, 2021 or newer)
- Toyota Corolla sedan (2013 or newer)
- Toyota Prius (2013 or newer)
Mid-size cars
- Audi A4 (2015-2016)
- BMW 3 Series sedan (2016)
- Ford Fusion (2014, 2016)
- Honda Accord coupe or sedan (2013 or newer)
- Toyota Camry (2013 or newer)
- Toyota Prius V (2013)
Large cars
- Hyundai Genesis (2013)
- Audi A6 (2013-15)
- Toyota Avalon (2013-14)
Small SUVs
- Hyundai Tucson (2014)
- Nissan Rogue (2015, 2017, 2021 or newer)
- Honda CR-V (2013-14)
- Toyota RAV4 (2013-14)
Mid-size SUVs
- Acura RDX (2013-15)
- Toyota Highlander (2013)
Safest new cars for young drivers
Small cars
- Mazda 3 sedan or hatchback
- Subaru BRZ
- Toyota GR86
Mid-size cars
- Subaru Legacy
- Subaru Outback
- Volkswagen Golf GTI
Small SUVs
- Honda CR-V
- Honda HR-V
- Lexus UX
- Mazda CX-5
- Mazda CX-50
- Mazda CX-30
- Subaru Forester
- Toyota RAV4
Mid-size SUVs
- Hyundai Palisade
- Lexus NX
- Mazda CX-9
- Subaru Ascent
- Toyota Highlander
- Chevrolet Trax
Minivans
- Honda Odyssey
Pickup Trucks
- Ford Maverick
Safety first when it comes to cars for teens
According to IIHS, overall traffic deaths have been rising in the last few years after decades of declines. Teen road deaths have spiked higher, and have increased 11% to 3,058 deaths. Sending your teen driver out on the road can be scary. Remember, there is no better way to protect your teens while on the road than making sure they have the proper driver’s training.
We hope our list of the best cars for teen drivers in 2025 helps you make the most informed choice for your family’s newest driver. If you have any questions about how a teen driver in your family may affect your auto insurance policy, reach out to a member of our isure team today.
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