First Cars For Teens | Top Cars With Best Features (2024) Full Guide

First Cars for Teens

Choosing the right first car for your teen is a monumental decision. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about safety, responsibility, and practicality. This article will guide you through all the important considerations to ensure your first cars for teens.

Why the First Car Matters

Your teen’s first car is more than just a vehicle; it’s a learning tool and a stepping stone to independence. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Safety Concerns
Safety is paramount. Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents, so a car with strong safety ratings and features is essential.

Building Confidence and Skills
A reliable first car helps teens build driving confidence and develop their skills in a safe environment.

Financial Responsibility
Owning a car teaches teens about financial responsibility, from maintenance costs to insurance and fuel expenses.

Budget for the First Car

Before you start shopping, determine a realistic budget.

Determine an Affordable Budget
Consider how much you can afford without stretching your finances too thin. Factor in the cost of insurance, maintenance, and potential repairs.

New vs. Used Cars
Decide whether a new or used car is the better option. Used cars are generally more affordable but may require more maintenance.

Hidden Costs to Consider
Don’t forget about additional expenses such as taxes, registration, and extended warranties.

Safety Features to Look For

Safety should be your top priority when choosing a car for your teen.

Top Safety Ratings
Look for cars with high safety ratings from reputable organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA.

Essential Safety Features
Ensure the car has basic safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Consider cars with advanced safety features such as lane departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

Popular First Cars for Teens

Here are some top picks for first cars based on reliability, safety, and affordability:

Best Cars for a 17-Year-Old
Cars like the

Honda Civic,

Toyota Corolla, and

Ford Fiesta

are great choices for 17-year-olds due to their balance of safety and economy.

Best Cars for Beginner Drivers
Beginner drivers might prefer models like the Mazda3 or Hyundai Elantra, which offer easy handling and good visibility.

Good First Cars for a 19-Year-Old
For 19-year-olds, consider the Volkswagen Golf or Subaru Impreza, which offer a bit more power and features.

Common Choices for First Cars

Many teens and parents gravitate towards certain models. Here’s why:

Most Popular Models Among Teens
The Honda Fit, Kia Soul, and Nissan Sentra are popular due to their compact size and fuel efficiency.

Advantages and Disadvantages
These cars are easy to drive and park but may lack some of the high-end features found in larger vehicles.

How Much Should Teens Spend on Their First Car?

It’s crucial to set a budget that reflects your financial situation.

Average Spending Range
Most teens spend between $5,000 and $10,000 on their first car, though this can vary widely based on factors like condition and mileage.

Factors Influencing the Cost
Consider insurance rates, fuel efficiency, and potential repair costs when determining your budget.

Best Cars for High School Students

High school students need cars that are safe, reliable, and easy to maintain.

Criteria for Selection
Look for cars with low maintenance costs, good fuel economy, and solid safety ratings.

Top Recommendations
The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Subaru Outback are excellent choices for high school students.

Safest Cars for Teen Drivers

Safety is a top priority for teen drivers.

#1 Safest Car
The Volvo XC90 is often cited as the safest car for teens due to its robust safety features and top ratings.

Other Highly Rated Safe Cars
The Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V also rank highly for safety.

Choosing the Right Car for a Nervous Driver

Nervous drivers need cars that offer comfort and confidence.

Features to Ease Anxiety
Cars with high seating positions, good visibility, and advanced safety features can help ease a nervous driver’s anxiety.

Recommended Models
The Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape are great for nervous drivers due to their supportive driving aids and visibility.

Should Parents Buy Their Kids’ First Car?

This is a common dilemma for many parents.

Pros and Cons
Buying a car for your teen can give them a safe, reliable vehicle, but it also means a significant financial outlay and potential for dependency.

Financial and Practical Considerations
Weigh the costs against the benefits, and consider having your teen contribute financially to the purchase.

How to Buy a Car by Yourself at 17

If your teen is ready to buy their own car, here’s what they need to know:

Steps to Take

1. Save up for a down payment.
2. Research financing options.
3. Get a co-signer if necessary.
4. Shop for insurance.

Legal and Financial Aspects
Understand the legal requirements for minors buying a car, and ensure all paperwork is in order.

Financing Options for Teen Drivers

Financing can be tricky for young drivers. Here’s what to consider:

Can an 18-Year-Old Get a Car Loan Without a Cosigner?
It’s possible but difficult. Lenders usually require a co-signer for young borrowers with limited credit history.

Tips for Financing a Car at 18
Build a good credit score, consider a low-cost car, and save up a substantial down payment.

How to Pick the Perfect First Car

Making the right choice involves balancing several factors.

Factors to Consider
Safety, reliability, cost, and insurance rates should all play a role in your decision.

Practical Tips for Decision-Making
Test drive several models, check online reviews, and consult with experienced drivers.

Parental Involvement in Teen Car Ownership

Parents play a crucial role in helping teens navigate car ownership.

Should Parents Pay for Kids’ Gas?
This depends on your family’s financial situation and your approach to teaching responsibility.

Balancing Support and Independence
Encourage your teen to contribute to car-related expenses to foster a sense of responsibility while providing necessary support.

Conclusion

Choosing the right first car for your teen involves careful consideration of safety, budget, and personal preferences. By focusing on these key factors, you can ensure that your teen’s first driving experience is both safe and enjoyable.

FAQs

What car is best for a 17-year-old?
The best car for a 17-year-old is one that balances safety, reliability, and affordability. Popular choices include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Fiesta, known for their excellent safety features and fuel efficiency.

What is the best car for a beginner driver?
Beginner drivers should look for cars that are easy to handle and have good visibility. The Mazda3 and Hyundai Elantra are top recommendations due to their user-friendly features and high safety ratings.

What is a good first car for a 19-year-old?
For a 19-year-old, cars like the Volkswagen Golf and Subaru Impreza are great options. They offer a bit more power and advanced features while maintaining a high level of safety and reliability.

What is a common first car?
Common first cars for teens include the Honda Fit, Kia Soul, and Nissan Sentra. These models are popular due to their compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

How much should a 17-year-old spend on a car?
A 17-year-old should aim to spend between $5,000 and $10,000 on their first car, depending on the car’s condition, mileage, and additional costs such as insurance and maintenance.

What car is best for high school students?
High school students need cars that are safe, reliable, and easy to maintain. The Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Subaru Outback are excellent choices due to their low maintenance costs and solid safety ratings.

What is the #1 safest car?
The Volvo XC90 is often cited as the safest car for teens due to its robust safety features and top safety ratings from reputable organizations.

Which car is best for a first-time buyer?
First-time buyers should look for cars that offer a good balance of safety, reliability, and affordability. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Fiesta are excellent choices for first-time buyers.

What is the safest car for a beginning driver?
The safest car for a beginning driver is one with high safety ratings and advanced safety features. The Subaru Legacy and Honda CR-V are top choices for their strong safety records and features.

How much should I spend on my first car at 18?
At 18, you should spend an amount that fits within your budget while considering future expenses like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Typically, a budget of $5,000 to $10,000 is reasonable for a first car.

What car should go first?
When deciding which car to buy first, prioritize safety, reliability, and affordability. Models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are excellent initial choices for their well-rounded features.

What is the best car for a nervous driver?
Nervous drivers should opt for cars that offer comfort and confidence through features like high seating positions, good visibility, and advanced safety aids. The Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape are recommended for their supportive driving aids and visibility.

Should parents buy their kids’ first car?
Buying a first car for your child has its pros and cons. While it ensures they have a safe and reliable vehicle, it also involves significant financial outlay. Consider having your teen contribute to the purchase to teach financial responsibility.

How to buy a car by yourself at 17?
To buy a car at 17, follow these steps:

1. Save for a down payment.
2. Research financing options.
3. Find a co-signer if needed.
4. Shop for insurance. Ensure you understand the legal requirements and complete all necessary paperwork.

Can an 18-year-old get a car loan without a co-signer?
It’s possible but challenging. Lenders often require a co-signer for young borrowers with limited credit history. Building a good credit score and saving a substantial down payment can help.

How much should a high schooler’s first car cost?
A high schooler’s first car should cost between $5,000 and $10,000, considering the condition, mileage, and additional costs such as insurance and maintenance.

How do you pick your first car?
Consider factors like safety, reliability, cost, and insurance rates. Test drive several models, check online reviews, and consult experienced drivers to make an informed decision.

Is it okay to finance a car at 18?
Financing a car at 18 is okay if you have a stable income and can manage monthly payments. Consider starting with a low-cost car and saving a significant down payment to reduce loan amounts.

What percent of parents buy their child a car?
The percentage varies, but many parents contribute to their child’s first car purchase. It’s common for parents to help with the down payment or co-sign the loan.

Should parents pay for kids’ gas?
Whether parents pay for gas depends on their financial situation and approach to teaching responsibility. Encouraging teens to contribute to gas expenses can foster financial independence.

How much should the average 17-year-old have saved?
A 17-year-old should aim to save at least $2,000 to $3,000 for a down payment and additional expenses like insurance and registration. This savings goal helps cover initial costs and establishes financial responsibility.

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