Cars to Get at 16: Top Picks for New Drivers (2024)

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Turning sixteen marks a significant milestone in many teenagers’ lives, primarily due to the excitement of driving.

Choosing the right car at this age can be both thrilling and daunting.

We want a vehicle that embodies safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, given that car accidents are a leading cause of death among 15- to 18-year-olds in the United States.

Parents and teens alike are on the lookout for that perfect first car—a sensible initiation into the world of driving that promises a safer, confidence-boosting experience behind the wheel.

While style and technology may catch the eye of new drivers, the essentials should not be overshadowed.

Practical features such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), good fuel economy, low insurance costs, and an excellent crash-test record are paramount.

With a myriad of options available, from sedans to SUVs, the focus remains on vehicles that are forgiving to novice mistakes while still being enjoyable to drive.

We have sifted through various recommendations to guide you in this exciting phase.

From industry experts to consumer reports, we consider the collective wisdom on what makes a car a sensible pick for a 16-year-old.

The vehicles that earn our nod must strike a balance, proving themselves not only as safe and reliable choices but also as cars that teens would be proud to own and drive.

Selecting the Right Vehicle for Safety and Budget

When choosing a car for a 16-year-old, it’s essential to find a balance between safety and affordability.

Our aim should be to select vehicles that are well-rated by reputable safety organizations without breaking the bank.

Understanding Safety Features and Ratings

Safety should be the top priority when selecting a car for young drivers.

We must look for cars that carry excellent crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and are designated as Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Advanced safety features to look for include:

Balancing Cost and Value in Car Selection

Beyond safety, affordability is a critical aspect of purchasing a car for a teenager.

Striking a balance between the initial price and long-term value involves factors like car insurance and maintenance costs.

When setting a budget, consider:

Ensuring the vehicle is affordable in the long term may lead us to consider both new and used options.

Newer models may offer more advanced safety features as standard, while older models can be more budget-friendly and still safe if chosen carefully.

Best Cars by Category for Teen Drivers

Choosing the right car for a teen driver is crucial.

It’s important to prioritize safety, reliability, and ease of use while considering the cost of ownership. Here we share our top selections by category, with an emphasis on those attributes.

Top Picks for New and Used Compact Cars

For new drivers, compact cars like the Honda Civic and Mazda3 stand out for their build quality and safety features.

The Toyota Corolla, including the hatchback model, is also a stellar option due to its reliability.

SUVs and Trucks: Space Meets Performance

For teens in need of more space or driving in challenging conditions, SUVs and trucks are worth considering.

The Kia Sportage and Honda CR-V offer room, comfort, and safety, making them excellent choices.

Fuel-Efficient Choices for the Economical Teen

Fuel efficiency is a priority for many, and hybrid models like the Toyota Prius lead here.

Additionally, small SUVs like the Chevrolet Trailblazer offer great mileage.

The Kia Soul, while not a hybrid, deserves a mention for its fuel efficiency and practicality.

Driving Safely: Technology and Tips for New Drivers

Gaining confidence behind the wheel and understanding your vehicle’s safety technology can vastly improve driving safety for new drivers.

A proactive approach to mastering control and familiarizing yourself with advanced safety features sets the stage for a safer driving experience.

Mastering Vehicle Control and Handling

When we start driving, our primary focus should be on vehicle control and handling.

This includes getting comfortable with acceleration and braking.

It’s crucial to practice in various conditions to understand how your car responds.

For instance, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are designed to prevent skidding and help maintain control, but knowing how they feel and work in practice is invaluable.

Comfort also factors into vehicle control.

Adjust your seat, mirrors, and climate controls before you start driving to ensure your attention remains on the road.

Understanding Advanced Safety Technology

Today’s cars are equipped with technologies that used to be the domain of high-end luxury vehicles.

For us, the new drivers, understanding features like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rearview cameras, and more can be the difference between an uneventful drive and a perilous one.

It’s important to not only know they exist but also to understand how they operate so we can trust the technology to assist us.

Moreover, integrating technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows for safer use of phones while driving, which is crucial since distractions cause accidents.

Relying on voice commands and steering controls keeps our hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Familiarizing ourselves with these features allows us to take full advantage of the safety they offer.