Best Cars for Teens

A safe car is important for all drivers, especially for teen drivers who are new to taking to the road. There are several car makes and models that offer various safety options for teen drivers, ensuring that they – and other drivers – are safe on the road.

The Automotive Research Center, which is operated by the Automobile Club of Southern California, has thoroughly assessed the market and they have made their recommendations for the safest cars for teen drivers.

Key Safety Features

The safest cars for teen drivers should have the following key features:

• Electronic stability control (ESC). Also known as electronic stability program (ESP) or dynamic stability control (DSC), this safety feature is a computerized technology that helps to improve the stability of a vehicle when it detects that the vehicle has experienced reduced traction.

• This safety device is installed in a vehicle and is designed to release and rapidly inflate if the vehicle is involved in a collision. They prevent drivers and passengers from hitting into the structure of the vehicle and they absorb shock, thus reducing injury. Driver and passenger airbags and side curtain airbags in the back of the vehicle are highly recommended for teen drivers.

• Backup cameras. When a vehicle that is outfitted with a backup camera is in reverse, the camera automatically turns on, providing the driver with a live view of what is behind the vehicle.

• Backup assist. This safety device detects anything that may be in the way of the vehicle when it is backing up and sounds an alarm if something is detected. This feature is particularly beneficial for monitoring blind spots when backing up.

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS). This safety feature allows the wheels to keep traction with the road surface, preventing the wheels from locking up, thus helping to avoid uncontrolled skidding.

In addition to these safety features, parents can purchase a GPS tracking device for teens in order to monitor their teen’s driving. Young drivers should also avoid vehicles with high horsepower, and drive heavier bigger vehicles for better crash protection.

Best Older Model Choices

The following older model vehicles were highly recommended for teen drivers, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety:

Large Cars

• 2010 or later Saab 9-5 Sedan
• 2009 or later Lincoln MKS
• 2011 or later Buick Regal
• 2010 or later Volvo S80

Midsize Cars

• 2012 or later Toyota Prius V
• 2009 or later Mercedes Benz C-Class sean
• 2012 or later Honda Accord sedan
• 2012 or later Toyota Camry
• 2011 or later Hyundai Sonata

Small SUVs

• 2012 or later Honda CR-V
• 2011 or later Kia Sportage
• 2010 or later Subaru Forester
• 2011 or later Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

To find out about other highly recommended newer vehicle models for teens, check out AAA Best Cars for Teens report to view a full list of vehicles.

You Are Here: LiveViewGPS Blog » Best Cars for Teens