A good time to remind both teens and their parents to review what it means to be safe and responsible behind the wheel. Learning isn't over just because a teen passes a driver's test. Continue to review with your teen the importance of distraction-free driving, how fatigue and impairment affect abilities, defensive-driving techniques and other crucial topics.
The Auto Club's Automotive Research Center (ARC) just released its 2014 list of Best Cars for Teens, a tool to help guide parents in the decision-making process when buying or leasing a car for their teen driver or determining which existing family car to let the teen use.
In general, ARC recommends a midsize car with a four-cylinder engine, an automatic transmission and high crash-test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A midsize car is big enough to protect occupants in a crash but small enough for a novice driver to handle easily. The four-cylinder engine limits the car's ability to accelerate and it's hoped, the teen's desire to show off. Automatic transmissions are easier to drive and allow a novice to focus on steering, proper speed and braking. The crash test scores were taken from NHTSA's website: safecar.gov, we selected only vehicles that scored the maximum 5 stars overall.
We would be remiss if we did not also point out getting right insurance coverage for your teen. Call us before your teen gets their learners permit - we'll be happy to help.
Chevrolet Sonic 5 $15,595
Hyundai Elantra $18,101
Toyota Corolla $18,195
Dodge Dart $18,240
Chevrolet Cruze $18,345
Mazda 3 (5-door) $19,740
Subaru Legacy $21,090
Kia Optima $22,300
Ford Fusion $22,795
Nissan Altima $22,980
Volkswagon Passat $23,065
Chevrolet Mailbu $23,165
Toyota Camry $23,235
Mazda 6 $23,490
Honda Accord $23,545
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid $26,810
Ford Fusion Hybrid $27,095
Honda Accord Hybrid $29,945
Buick LaCrosse e-Assist $34,460
Ford Fusion Energi $35,525
Lincoln MKZ $36,085
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid $36,085
Toyota Avalon Hybrid $36,615
Lexus 300h $40,410
Audi A6 $44,345
Audi A6 Quattro $46,095
BMW 528i $50,425
BMW 528i xDrive $52,725