Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the Best Cars for Teens based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive.

October 20, 2025 - Here is a list of the 30 best cars for teenagers and tips for parents on safety features and options to consider for your new driver in 2024.

September 18, 2025 - Even older models have strong crash-test results. Insurance: Insurance rates are generally moderate, as the Civic is classified as a compact car rather than a sports vehicle. Maintenance: Known for bulletproof reliability, the Civic is inexpensive to maintain, with parts readily available across the country. Fuel Economy: Expect around 7–8 L/100 km combined, which helps stretch a student budget. A used Civic (3–5 years old) can be found in Canada for $18,000–$25,000, depending on condition and mileage.

The Hyundai Elantra has quickly gained a reputation for offering modern tech, sharp styling, and impressive safety. The 2021 redesign introduced standard safety features that rival luxury vehicles. Elantra is frequently featured on lists of top 10 cars for 16 year olds because of its combination ...

Prices, provided by Kelley Blue Book and rounded to the nearest $100, are average U.S. values from April 19, 2024, for the lowest trim level and earliest applicable model year. The estimates are based on the following criteria: vehicle in good condition, typical mileage and private party purchase. ... All listed vehicles are winners of the 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award and come with standard vehicle-to-vehicle automatic emergency braking and good-rated seat belt reminders.

If you really want a compact SUV like a Toyota RAV4 or a Honda CR-V on a budget, take a look at our recommendations in our list of the best used SUVs in Canada for under $10,000. Note: Images may show US models. ... Stephanie Wallcraft is a multiple award-winning professional automotive journalist based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

May 30, 2023 - The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports each year suggest the best cars for teens · For 2023, they’ve narrowed it down to 16 new vehicles; and 46 used ones

If you’re looking to upgrade, use your old car as a trade-in for a new one from our extensive selection. YST Auto Sales will even handle the simultaneous pick-up and drop-off for both vehicles. This also saves your valuable time and saves more on your new car—a win-win! ... The Honda Civic has ...

September 8, 2025 - The third group (available to Consumer Reports members only) are the safest cars that are also CR Recommended. This means that these vehicles also meet our stringent requirements for road-test performance, reliability, and owner satisfaction. • Good for Safety Under $10,000 • Best for Safety Under $20,000 • Recommended Used Cars for Teens

April 24, 2024 - The Toyota Highlander, model 2014 or newer, is our top teen vehicle recommendation for cars between $15,000 and $20,000. The vehicle earned its spot for its 5-star safety rating and lower insurance premium.

View the best cars for teens in 2023. Ranked on affordability, maintenance costs, safety, and tech features. Find cheap cars for teens with EchoPark Automotive.

When selecting the year of the vehicle, pick one sold after 2012. In Canada, all vehicles sold since 2012 include electronic stability control (ESC), a crash avoidance system. Newer cars also have more recent safety features.

November 17, 2021 - Get the latest news on top 12 best cars for teenagers, In this guide, we help you find the best cars for teenagers in 2021. Whether you’re interested in buying used cars or brand new cars, there is something for you on this list. Read the full article to find out more.

September 8, 2025 - Must Check: 10 Affordable Cars with 360 Degree Camera for Easy Parking and Safety ... The 2023 Honda Civic would also be perfect for a 16-year-old’s first car. It is rated five stars overall for crash protection by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it is a IIHS Top Safety Pick, highlighting robust crash protection and comprehensive safety equipment.

May 1, 2025 - IIHS made it a Top Safety Pick+, and as a midsize vehicle, it offers more protection than a small car. It holds its value well and earns an 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power for reliability. With a sporty-looking front grill, this four-door still has enough cool factor for your teen. And because it’s five years old, it’s already taken its biggest hit in depreciation.

October 19, 2023 - Mazda 3 is a good choice for learning experience and it can be counted as top 10 cars for 16 year-olds even in 2022 because it is highly affordable. Despite having less cargo space, its overall rating is not that bad as compared to its price.

July 16, 2025 - 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.

June 30, 2025 - What is the safest car for a 16 year old? While there’s no single safest vehicle, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla get consistently high marks as being extraordinarily safe for teens. What's the best first car for boys?

December 11, 2023 - Then there is the peace of mind you’ll enjoy thanks to its industry-standard warranty and five-year roadside assistance program. Your teenager will like the Limited trim level’s upscale look and feel, as well as the wireless smartphone charger and premium sound system. Fact that might surprise you: Thanks to its standard LED headlights, the Elantra Limited gets a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS. It is one of two vehicles on our list to earn this distinction. ... Why it makes the list: A midsize car with lots of interior and trunk room, an industry-standard warranty and roadside assistance program, free connected services, and attractive design, the Kia Optima S is a well-equipped vehicle that should last a long time.