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9 best cars for teenagers

9 best cars for teenagers

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If the thought of handing your car keys over to a freshly licensed teenage driver fills you with foreboding dread, well, you’re probably not alone. But growing up – and taking on the open road – is an inevitable part of life. Help keep your kids a little safer on the road by selecting a car that’s safe, reliable and teen-proof (or as close as any car can be).

Some may have the option of passing down an older family vehicle but for those who are looking to purchase a car for their child, this list may be helpful. The cars listed have a proven ability to serve the teenage crowd well. They are included because of their reliability and safety, but price and consumer report ratings have also been taken into consideration.

Honda Civic

US News ranks the Honda Civic as the best compact car for the money. It has been near the top for compact cars for decades and continues to deliver on price, reliability and fuel economy. If you’re buying brand new, the all-new redesigned 2016 model starts at about $18,600, and if you or your teen is buying used, Consumer Reports recommends models 2012 or later, which best meets criteria for being safe and reliable. See the listings near you.

Hyundai Elantra

If it’s safety you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the Hyundai Elantra. In fact, Kelley Blue Book named the car a top pick for teen drivers due to its 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Association (NHTSA) and it's an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick. The Elantra features a 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty too, which may save you some money on repairs down the line. See listings near you.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is one of the more affordable Subaru options, and rest assured, they usually hold their resale value really well. Not always known for the best in comfort, Subaru has worked to improve that in their later models. All-Wheel Drive comes standard, letting you feel a little more secure about your teen driving in wintery conditions. The Impreza also receives an overall 5-star NHTSA safety rating, and the best possible score for the IIHS safety rating. See listings near you.

Kia Sportage

For teens looking for a good crossover SUV option, the Kia Sportage can deliver on good looks, efficiency, and quality. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Association (NHTSA) gave it 5-star safety ratings, and other attractive benefits include a long warranty, upscale interior design and generous leg and head room. See listings near you.

Chevy Malibu

Considered one of the safest sedans on the market again in 2016 with excellent safety ratings by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Chevy Malibu continues to be a top pick for teen drivers. With extra safety features such as electronic stability control, rollover sensors and driver and passenger knee airbags, you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck, especially with its great fuel economy at 37 MPG highway. Bonus: your teenager will enjoy its sporty ride. See listings near you.

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Shutterstock

Ford Focus

With its small size and roomy interior, the Ford Focus always makes an appearance on any “best cars for teens” list. And it's fuel-efficient too, boasting an average 26 MPG. Teens will be particularly impressed by the interior bells and whistles added in recent model years. See listings near you.

Volkswagen Jetta

The quintessential teen-college car, the VW Jetta is as cute as it is safe. A post-collision safety system, ventilated front disc and solid rear disc brakes, and stability control contribute to its high marks. It has also come down in price in recent years to be a more viable option for small car shoppers. According to Consumer Reports, the Jetta still holds its reputation for offering great performance, a smooth ride, and according to Edmunds.com, just enough German personality to set it apart. See listings near you.

Mazda 6

It’s good-looking, sporty and stylish, and your teen will have fun driving it. It has good fuel economy, a roomy cabin, well-built interior, and offers great value for the price. It earns a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and it also received top safety ratings with the IIHS with features like electronic stability control and brake assist. See listings near you.

Toyota Prius

Everyone knows the Prius gets fantastic fuel economy with an EPA combined rating of up to 56 MPG, but what you might not know is that the NHTSA gives the Prius the highest marks available for safety. Features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and intervention and Safety Connect emergency services system make this a great choice for teens. See listings near you.

Check out more great new and used car options for your teen at KSL Cars.

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