Best Cars for Teens for 2024 and 2025

When selecting a car for new teen drivers, it is crucial to focus on safety, reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency. The 2024 Honda Civic excels in these areas with its advanced driver aids, high safety ratings, and economic benefits for daily use. It also balances purchase and maintenance costs, offering versatile performance that supports safe and efficient driving.

For those seeking a sportier feel, the 2024 Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 provide a dynamic driving experience, dependable safety technology, and solid fuel efficiency. Alternatively, purchasing a used 2023 Nissan Leaf can be economical with the car’s comprehensive safety package and the cost benefits of all-electric driving. Meanwhile, the 2024 Ford Mustang and Tesla Model Y cater to different needs; the Mustang offers a powerful engine that may challenge new drivers, whereas the Model Y delivers innovative technology with consistent performance.

2024 Honda Civic

MotoPickers Rating: 6.7/10

The 2024 Honda Civic, starting at $23,950, embodies a blend of reliability and luxury in the compact car class in sedan and hatchback styles. This model captivates with its balance of economy, comfort, and sportiness, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers. It offers a standard 158-horsepower engine, with options for more spirited 180-horsepower and 200-horsepower configurations. Fuel efficiency is estimated at 22-33 MPG in the city and 28-42 MPG on the highway.

Inside the Civic, passengers enjoy a luxury-grade experience with high-quality materials and an intelligent layout for five. Honda prioritizes safety by equipping the Civic with an extensive suite of driver-assistance technologies like a Collision Mitigation Braking System. Despite some wind noise and a base engine that might underwhelm, the Civic’s superior handling and premium cabin make it an excellent choice for teens.

2024 Subaru BRZ

MotoPickers Rating: 6.9/10

The 2024 Subaru BRZ features exclusive rear-wheel drive (RWD) for a dynamic and distinct driving experience. With prices starting at $30,195, it excels in agility and precise handling, thanks to its 228 horsepower 2.4-liter engine and optional manual gearbox, ensuring dependable acceleration.

Subaru ensures safety with its standard EyeSight suite, which analyzes traffic movement, optimizes cruise control, and warns drivers who sway outside lanes. Despite the snug rear seats, the BRZ prioritizes driver engagement with an intuitive 8” infotainment system. Known for its reliability, the BRZ combines fun with practicality, making it ideal for teen drivers who enjoy spirited road outings and smooth highway cruising.

2024 Toyota GR86

MotoPickers Rating: 6.9/10

The 2024 Toyota GR86, priced from $29,300, offers an accessible sports coupe experience with RWD for quality performance during every drive. It features a 2.4L boxer engine that delivers 228 horsepower, providing responsive acceleration and handling. This model efficiently manages fuel, achieving 20-21 MPG in the city and 26-30 MPG on the highway.

In addition to its strength, the GR86 introduces Trueno Edition and an optional Performance package with Sachs dampers and Brembo brakes, enhancing road grip and driving dynamics. While the GR86 accommodates four, its rear seats are more suited for storage. The interior features straightforward controls, allowing drivers to enjoy the ride without distractions.

2024 Honda Accord Hybrid

MotoPickers Rating: 7.0/10

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid, with its refreshed design following a 2023 revamp, starts at $32,895, appealing to those valuing sophistication and sustainability. Its dual-motor system delivers a robust 204 horsepower, ensuring strong performance. Additionally, the Accord Hybrid excels in fuel efficiency, offering 46-51 MPG in the city and 41-44 MPG on the highway, benefiting your wallet and the environment.

Inside the Honda Accord Hybrid is a spacious interior that seats five. Standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, enhance security and demonstrate Honda’s commitment to safety. The sedan also contains user-friendly technology that simplifies navigation and enhances daily driving. While the starting price is on the higher end for its class, the long-term savings on fuel and the guarantee of high-quality construction make the 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid a wise investment for teens.

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

MotoPickers Rating: 7.2/10

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid distinguishes itself as a compact SUV ideal for teens, blending efficiency with practicality, starting at $34,050. This model enters the hybrid market with an effective 204 horsepower output that doesn’t compromise fuel efficiency. It boasts fuel economy ratings of up to 43 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway for FWD variants. Opting for AWD still yields impressive rates of 40 MPG city and 34 MPG highway.

Inside, the CR-V Hybrid offers five passengers a comfortable and upscale setting. Although the powertrain may occasionally produce noticeable noise, this is generally overshadowed by the vehicle’s smooth ride quality. Despite a slight reduction in cargo space due to the hybrid system, the space remains exceptional for daily needs, with 39.3 cubic feet (cu. ft.) of storage.

2024 Ford Maverick

MotoPickers Rating: 7.3/10

The 2024 Ford Maverick emerges as a compelling compact SUV alternative, providing value and versatility with a starting price of $23,920. Ford’s Maverick adopts a functional unibody design, enhancing handling to resemble a crossover’s smooth ride while maintaining the practicality of a truck. The interior offers ample space, seating five comfortably.

Performance-wise, the Maverick delivers 162 to 250 horsepower through FWD or optional AWD. It excels in fuel efficiency for a truck, achieving 20-42 MPG in the city and 24-33 MPG on the highway, without compromising its hauling capabilities. Although the cargo bed isn’t the largest, it utilizes its compact size effectively.

2024 Mazda CX-30

MotoPickers Rating: 7.3/10

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 stands out in the compact SUV market, combining sprightly handling with luxury. Priced from $24,995, this vehicle features a standard AWD system, offering a reliable grip on various surfaces, which is crucial for new drivers. Although the interface may require some acclimatization due to its control dial, it enhances accessibility through a larger 10.25” screen size.

Regarding performance, the CX-30 impresses with its engine options. The base model’s 2.5-liter engine delivers 191 horsepower, while the 2.5 Carbon Turbo trim increases to 227 horsepower. Fuel efficiency remains competitive, ranging from 22-26 MPG in the city and 30-33 MPG on the highway. Standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert bolster safety.

2024 Chevrolet Trax

MotoPickers Rating: 7.4/10

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax stands out as a subcompact SUV that combines an upscale feel with practical value, starting at $20,400. This model features an interior that surpasses expectations for its price range, offering ample space and a standard 8” user-friendly infotainment system to keep you connected while on the move. Despite its modest 137-horsepower turbocharged engine, the Trax delivers appreciable fuel economy, with rates of 28 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway.

The Trax, now redesigned, takes aesthetic cues from the larger Blazer and presents a sleek, modern look. It is FWD, seats five, and has a generous cargo area measuring 25.6 cu. ft., making it more appealing than its predecessors. Offering quality without a high price tag, the 2024 Trax is an excellent choice for teens seeking a reliable, stylish, and economical vehicle.

2024 Hyundai Kona

MotoPickers Rating: 7.5/10

The 2024 Hyundai Kona, starting at $24,250, could be the perfect car for teen drivers. This redesigned small SUV offers a modern cabin and ample space, ensuring a comfortable ride across four trims. It promises fuel economy between 24-29 MPG in the city and 29-35 MPG on the highway—a commendable efficiency for a small SUV that leads to savings at the fuel pump. The Kona provides power through two engine options: a standard 147-horsepower 2.0-liter or an optional 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

Safety is a strong suit for the Kona, featuring the latest technologies such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The driving experience, though not exhilarating, is ideal for new drivers—offering dependable and predictable performance. Furthermore, the Kona is available in FWD and AWD, allowing buyers to choose between maximizing fuel efficiency or enhancing all-weather capabilities. With its stylish update and technological advancements, the Kona is an appealing choice for teens.

2024 Mazda 3

MotoPickers Rating: 7.5/10

The 2024 Mazda 3 starts at a competitive $24,170. Offering a horsepower range from 191 to 227 and athletic handling, this sedan helps drivers navigate tight corners and cruise highways.

Inside, the Carbon Edition trim boasts a new 10.3” display, adding a modern touch to its tech-savvy interior. However, the rear seats are snug, and cargo space in the sedan is limited. Fuel efficiency is strong, with mileage estimates ranging from 23-27 MPG in the city and 31-37 MPG on the highway, available in both standard FWD and optional AWD. With a reputation for reliability, the Mazda 3 is built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions

Make informed decisions about your teen’s first car with answers to these common questions. You’ll learn about safety, affordability, fuel efficiency, and more.

What are the top safety-rated cars for teenage drivers in 2024?

The 2024 Honda Civic and Subaru BRZ rank highly in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist prioritizing your teen’s protection.

However, Honda’s 2024 Civic ranks slightly better than its Subaru BRZ counterpart, with an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.

Which affordable 2024 model cars are most suitable for first-time teen drivers?

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax Leaf starts at $20,400, offering affordability along with quality fuel economy.

The 2024 Trax’ 25.6 cu. ft. of cargo space also gives teens plenty of room to take more along for rides.

What are the best vehicles in 2024 for teens that combine fuel efficiency with style?

The 2024 Toyota Corolla Cross features 24 cu. ft. of maximum cargo space and an efficient 4-cylinder engine, maintaining a sleek design.

This Toyota SUV has also received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in an expert display of form and function.

What should parents look for when choosing a car for their 17 or 18-year-old?

Parents should prioritize safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking, as these features enhance protection for new drivers and increase road safety.

Additionally, assess the vehicle’s reliability, insurance costs, and power. Ensure it is suitable for tasks like highway merging without being overly aggressive for a new driver.

How do the latest small car models compare in terms of safety features for teenagers?

Small car models like the 2024 Honda Civic now have advanced safety features previously reserved for high-end models, including collision warning systems and comprehensive airbag coverage.

These enhancements significantly boost safety and will improve as semi-autonomous driving technology becomes more capable.

What are the most reliable car brands for young adults entering the market in 2024-2025?

Brands such as Honda and Toyota consistently rank high in reliability charts, particularly with models like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Their dependable performance and strong safety ratings make them excellent choices for young adults.

Teen drivers can foster the longevity of vehicles like the Honda Civic by performing routine maintenance on time according to the car’s owner’s manual recommendations.