Best and Worst Cars for Teens and New Drivers

When picking out a car for a new driver, choosing a safe vehicle is most important. Inexperienced drivers–usually in their teens–also need a car that is reliable and affordable. The chances of having an accident are highest for young drivers, so it makes little sense to buy an expensive brand new car, which may end up with dents and scratches. The good news is that there are some safe, reliable and affordable new models out there as well as used models that are perfect for new drivers.

On This Page

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  Insights and Statistics on Car Safety

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  Used Cars: What You Need To Know

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  Cars for Teens FAQs

Insights and Statistics on Car Safety

• Small vehicles and muscle cars have the highest rates of driver deaths.
• From 2018 to 2021, the U.S. had 155,136 traffic deaths, up from 147,599 from 2015 to 2018.
• Americans are buying more pickups and SUVs, which usually have lower death rates than smaller vehicles.
• Speeding-related deaths rose 8% from 2020 to 2021, accounting for nearly one-third of car crash fatalities.
• Teen car crashes are the leading cause of death for 15 to 18-year-olds in the United States.
• The fatal crash rate per 100 million miles driven for 16 to 19-year-olds is more than twice the rate compared with drivers ages 20 to 79.
• If you add a teenager to your car insurance, you will pay more. It’ll cost even more if they buy their own policy.
• Some cars are more expensive than others to insure.
• There are several discounts your provider may offer to reduce premium rates.
• Enrolling a new driver in a safety program reduces the risk of having an accident.
• 2013 and newer vehicles come with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control, which are important for safety.
• 2018 models (and newer) have rearview cameras.
• Many newer models of cars also have lane departure and blind spot detection and warning as well as side-impact airbags, which are useful for staying safe.

There are safe, reliable and affordable models of cars that are perfect for new drivers.

Used Cars: What You Need To Know

When buying a used car, however, it’s important to use the vehicle identification number or license plate to check for outstanding recalls before paying. Even if there have been no recalls on the vehicle, it’s important to notify the manufacturer of your purchase for future recalls and to check the NHTSA database for recalls as well.

Best Used Cars Under $15,000

After you determine which car make and model you’re interested in buying, see what average car insurance rates are for that type of car. Note that the year of the vehicle plays a crucial factor in rates as well. An older car will be valued as less and that will be reflected in the car insurance rate.

Visit this page to compare insurance rates at a quick glance: Car Insurance by Make and Model

Best New Cars Under $35,000

Teen road deaths increased 11% to 3,058 in 2021.

10 Deadliest Cars and Average Insurance Cost