A lot of excitement comes with getting your license and finding your first car, but so does a lot of worry. Prices are expensive and not all cars are reliable, especially for beginners and teenagers. However, there are many cars out there that are perfect for new drivers specifically! Looks and style may be the things that appeal to a teenager when choosing a new car. However, that’s not all that matters. Having a reliable and affordable car, yet still stylish, can make both worried parents and teenagers happy.
When choosing a first car, it is important to make sure you are capable of driving it safely. Though it may be safe in general, factors such as size may make it harder to drive. While one car may great option for some, for others it may be too difficult. It is important to choose a car based upon what you or your teen is capable and comfortable with.
Grant Monday, a sophomore, said, “I have a RAM 1500 truck. I think it’s safe, but it’s big and hard to drive.”
A Toyota Corolla is both a safe and affordable option, including safety features such as, Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection, Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Full-Speed Cruise Control, numerous airbags, and more. All of these features help to ensure the driver’s safety, serving as an extra precaution. The price, compared to other cars, is relatively affordable for a used model. When looking for a brand new starting MSRP model, the price is found to be around $23,920 for the LE trim. Though it may be higher than what most are looking for, it is cheaper than other MSRP models that includes all of the features the Corolla does. There may be less advanced safety features in older generation models but they can be found for cheaper. Models made before 2022 can be found for under $5,000. All of this information and more can be found on Toyota’s website at toyota.com.
Chaeyul Lee, a junior at Carolina Forest High School, shared, “I look for reliability, the outer color, and interior design.”
For those who are interested in a stylish yet reliable model, a Honda Civic is worth looking into! Newer generation models have a more mature and upscale look. The car has a longer hood, sleek lines, and a planted stance, making it more stylish. As for reliability, Honda Sensing, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and other structural features and enhancements, make it safer for teens. The price for an unused 2026 base model is around $25,745. If that is out of budget, older models still offer a fun option with many features. Older generations have both a clean and fun look! Bold styling and sharp angles even are said to make the car look aggressive. As for safety, these models have the following features: Vehicle Stability Assist, Anti-Lock Brakes, and multiple airbags. The price is around $5,000-$9,000. Though it may be older, these models are known for aging quite well, and are always a good, affordable option. To find out more information go to automobiles.honda.com.
When asked if there are certain car brands that would be best for teens, Lee added, “Mazda, Honda, and Toyota.”
When looking for a specific brand Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Chevrolet, and Toyota are the most affordable, making them a great place to search for a teenager’s first car. As for brands that are known for reliability Lexus, Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, and Honda are the best. You can find the different models, generations, safety features, and prices on each of these brands websites.
Affordability and reliability are important factors that play into choosing a first car, so make sure to consider these top brands and models!
Photo Credit: Lily Shiltz
