The decision to buy a first car is a significant milestone in any car enthusiast's life. It's natural to want something cool, fun to drive, and maybe even fast, but parents are likely to have other concerns that take precedence. Safety is often at the top of their list when making the purchase.
For safety-conscious parents, looking at the IIHS' overall safety ratings can provide valuable insights into a car's capabilities. However, this study also partners with Consumer Reports to create a list of affordable and safe used cars for teen drivers.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent entity that subjects most new cars to rigorous safety evaluations and crash tests. The study ranks vehicles in two tiers: best choices and good choices with even lower price points, but the focus here is on the cheapest vehicles specifically in the 'best choices' category.
The prices used to make this list were obtained from Black Book in April 2026 and are rounded to the nearest $100. They represent the median retail price for all trims of each model for the earliest applicable model year.
The Nissan Maxima is the fifth-cheapest car on the list, with a median retail price of $15,200. The 2020 Maxima earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS crash test results, making it an excellent choice for teen drivers.
The Maxima is also a front-wheel-drive midsize sedan that prioritizes luxurious features, style, and power. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine sends 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels through a CVT transmission.
For those who prefer an SUV or subcompact crossover, the Mazda CX-3 and Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid are two affordable options under $14,000. The 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-3 and the 2019 to 2023 Subaru Crosstrek PHEV offer a safe and stylish alternative.
These vehicles not only meet safety standards but also provide a fun driving experience for young car enthusiasts. With their affordable prices and impressive safety ratings, they are an excellent choice for parents looking to buy a first car for their teen.
Ultimately, buying a car for a teen driver requires careful consideration of safety features and affordability. By choosing one of these five cheapest cars, parents can ensure their child has access to a safe and reliable vehicle that meets their needs.
When it comes to buying a car for a teen driver, safety should be the top priority.
