Honda Civic
Honda Civics have received “good” marks or higher on all crash test ratings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The "superlative small car does everything well,” says Robert Sinclair Jr. of AAA. Civics get low insurance rates, good mileage and are reliable. There’s even a hybrid option at a slightly higher price. Need more room? The Honda Accord has many of these options, but with a bigger cabin. Starting at $15,755.
Ford Focus
This car is a mainstay in many garages for a reason. It looks sleek, handles well and gets awesome gas mileage (up to 40 miles per gallon!). The newest models offer Ford MyKey, which lets authorized users (that’s you, parent) limit things like audio volume and maximum speed. Seriously. Starting at $16,200.
Toyota Prius
Go green with this awesome, fuel-efficient car that gets 51 miles in the city, 48 on the highway. The 2012 Prius Plug-in’s battery can be charged in three hours or less, while all versions have been given top ranks in fuel economy and reliability. Plus, it just looks cool—something any teen can appreciate. Starting at $24,000.
Ford Fusion
Ranking number one in affordable midsize cars according to U.S. News, this car is great for those who need a bit more room, but don’t want an SUV. With a large interior and roomy trunk, it’s perfect for sports gear, science projects and camping trips. You can rest a bit easier with its impressive safety ratings and optional all-wheel drive. Check out the hybrid model for the more eco-friendly teen. Starting at $21,700.
Subaru Legacy
With good safety marks, a spacious interior and great pre-owned prices (you can find a 2011 Legacy for less than $14,000), this midsize car is a good buy. If you live in inclement weather, go for the all-wheel drive, which really makes the car worth the price. Starting at $20,295.
Mazda3
This car is great for teens who have to buy or chip in themselves: Many pre-owned models come in at less than $15,000. It’s compact, gets decent gas mileage (around 28 miles city, 40 miles highway) and has great performance reviews. “A really great little car that's bigger than the Mazda2, and with none of the high-speed handling problems,” says Sinclair. For more trunk space, consider the hatchback model. Starting at $15,200.
Hyundai Elantra
This affordable small car has upscale amenities, including a navigation system and (optional) heated leather seats. “These are really solid, well-built small cars,” says Sinclair. Ranking well in reliability and safety and with a decent price tag, this sporty-looking car only looks upscale. Starting at $16,695.
Chevrolet Sonic
Getting around 29 mpg city, 40 on the highway, “this is a very nice car that [has] solid handling” said Sinclair. And, it's a 2012 Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and the only car in its class with 10 airbags. Just be sure to talk with your kid about safe speeds, as the great handling makes it tempting to go fast. Starting at $13.865.
Chevrolet Equinox
With some of the best fuel economy in its class (22 mpg in the city, 32 mpg highway) and affordability, the Chevrolet Equinox is a great SUV pick if you want to go the SUV route ( they’re generally not recommended by AAA). For an SUV of its size, it boasts outstanding safety scores, moveable rear seats and a stylish look. Starting at $23,530.
