The things novice teenage drivers and their parents look for in a car are safety and reliability, along with the cost. The 10 suggestions below have made considering all these parameters. The list has cars which cost less than $20,000 and includes various classes of cars such as sedans, hatch-backs, coupes, sports utility vehicles (SUVs), convertibles and the usual trucks. Other parameters considered while preparing this list are: mileage, styling of the exterior and comfort of the interior.
1. 2006 / 2007 Volvo S40
Price: $14,900 – $16,050
Why is it good for teens?
Always focusing on safety, Volvo has made significant improvements than its competitors in the frame integrity, the air bag technology and blind spot sensors. The S40 is different from the kind of cars Volvo usually manufactures. In 2004, this model got a face-lift and developed into a stylish car with a 5-cylinder engine which provides great mileage.
2. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
Price: $17,000 – $23,000
Why it is good for teens?
If you think that giving a Merc to your teen might be too much, the Jetta by Volkswagen is a good choice. Over the years, the Jetta has developed a lot and comes with a 2.5L 5-cylinder engine. Contrary to previous versions, it can now seat passengers at the back with more comfort.
3. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
Price: $17,600 to US$21,450
Why it is good for teens?
The Sonata is racehorse built for the long run. It’s a sedan which provides the standard modern safety features. It has a 4-cylinder engine and much of its styling is similar to the Mercedes C-class. However, it is much more affordable.
4. 2008 Honda Civic
Price: $13,500–$25,600
Why it is good for teens?
It’s the perfect first car for a person of any age group. Currently, it is one of the best cars in the market and every driver will be comfortable driving it. In addition to the safety and reliability, the Civic gives a great mileage. Along with the usual standard features, it sports a stylish exterior and an exquisite interior too.
5. 2009 Toyota Camry
Price: $14,900 – $18,250
Why it is good for teens?
Rolled out in 1983, the Toyota Camry is as dominating as ever. Even with its simple looks and a four cylinder engine, the Camry is still perfectly reliable. It is relatively cheaper than other cars in its class but that does not make it a weak competitor and it is, in fact, quite popular.
6. Mazda MX-5 (Miata) convertible
Price: $20,000
Why it is good for teens?
If a sports car is a must-have for you, then you should opt for the MX-5. A convertible suit teens well and the $20,000 cost is not very steep too. Possible shortcomings in the MX-5 are small trunk space and just two seats.
7. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
Price: $13,990
Why it is good for teens?
Freshly refurbished, the Mitsubishi Lancer has raised the bar of stylish and compact sedans. Literally speaking, the car is not very compact and has ample of space. It offers a good experience for new drivers. The sporty look and the provisions of standard safety features combined with a modest price make the Lancer an attractive buy.
8. 2007 MINI Cooper
Price: $17,866.67 – $20,100
Why it is good for teens?
With the expected BMW class and quality, the small yet amazing MINI Cooper is a two-door model. It has a four-cylinder engine and the mileage is much more than its peers. Its small size is very deceptive; it has enough boot space for everyone and has great crash safety performance.
9. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Price: $16,950 – $23,033.33
Why it is good for teens?
This one is for those car crazy ones who are desperate to drive a European car. For teens, the Sport model suits really well with its V6 engine with a horsepower of 201. It will help new drivers to learn to drive on highways too. As expected, typical Mercedes safety features are evident throughout and that is a good reason to buy it for a new teen driver.
10. 2005 Subaru Outback
Price: $13,166.67 – $17,850
Why it is good for teens?
It’s a strong four wheel drive and is perfect for outdoors. With its four cylinder boxer engine and its rough and tough built, the Outback wagon is among the most economical yet reliable cars you can possibly get. Hugely popular among people, it has enough space to accommodate many people along with their luggage.
