Picking Your First Car
So, you’re ready to hit the road, huh? Choosing your first car is a big deal. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about finding a ride that fits your life and keeps you safe. Let’s break down what you need to know.
What to Think About
- Money Matters: Figure out your budget. This isn’t just the sticker price—think insurance, upkeep, and gas. Check out our guide on cheap cars for first-time drivers for some wallet-friendly options.
- Safety First: Look for cars with must-have safety features like electronic stability control (ESC), side airbags, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Newer cars usually have better crash protection.
- Dependability: Go for a car known for being reliable. Less time in the shop means more time on the road and less stress.
- Gas Mileage: Fuel-efficient cars save you money at the pump. Handy if you’re planning to drive a lot.
- Size and Handling: Smaller cars are easier to park and maneuver, which is great when you’re just starting out.
- Resale Value: Some cars hold their value better than others. Good to know if you plan to sell it down the line. For more details, visit our section on value retention.
Why Safety Ratings Matter
Safety isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifesaver. Teen drivers crash about four times more often than older drivers. So, picking a car with high safety ratings is a no-brainer.
The U.S. Department of Transportation says teen car crashes are the leading cause of death for 15- to 18-year-olds in the U.S. (Kelley Blue Book). Here are some key places to check for safety ratings:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): They have a 5-star safety rating system that looks at how well cars protect you in crashes. More info in our section on NHTSA Safety Ratings.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): They do tough crash tests and give out Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards to the safest cars. Recommended new vehicles for teens are winners of the 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ award (IIHS).
| Safety Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | Keeps you from skidding and losing control. |
| Side Airbags | Extra protection in side crashes. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | Helps avoid or lessen crashes. |
| Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) | Includes stuff like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. |
For more info on safe cars, visit our section on safe used cars for new drivers.
By keeping these tips in mind and focusing on safety, you’ll find the best small car for new drivers that fits your needs and keeps you safe on the road.
Best Small Cars for New Drivers
Picking your first car can be a big deal. Going for a small car is a smart move—they’re easier to drive, sip less gas, and come loaded with safety goodies. Here are some of the top small cars for new drivers in 2024.
2024 Toyota Prius
The 2024 Toyota Prius is a rockstar for new drivers. It’s famous for sipping gas like a pro, giving you great mileage and saving you money at the pump (Car and Driver). With its hybrid engine, you get the best of both worlds—electric and gas.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Up to 56 |
| Safety Rating | 5/5 (NHTSA) |
| Price | $25,000 |
2024 Hyundai Elantra
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra is another solid pick. It scores high on safety with a 9.4/10 rating and gets thumbs-up from NHTSA. Plus, it’s fuel-efficient and packed with cool tech, making it a fun and practical ride.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Up to 41 |
| Safety Rating | 5/5 (NHTSA) |
| Price | $20,000 |
2024 Hyundai Sonata
The 2024 Hyundai Sonata is all about style, safety, and saving on gas. It’s one of the top cars for mileage and is easy to handle, perfect for new drivers.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Up to 54 (Hybrid) |
| Safety Rating | 5/5 (NHTSA) |
| Price | $24,500 |
2024 Toyota Corolla
The 2024 Toyota Corolla is a trusty and efficient little car. It can hit up to 50 MPG in its hybrid version, making it a top choice for saving on gas (TrueCar). Even though the trunk isn’t huge, the Corolla’s features and price make it a winner.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Up to 50 (Hybrid) |
| Safety Rating | 5/5 (NHTSA) |
| Price | $21,000 |
2024 Honda Civic
The 2024 Honda Civic is a champ in the compact-car world. It offers great value and is a blast to drive. With solid fuel efficiency, it competes well with other top models like the Volkswagen Jetta and Mazda3 (TrueCar). Known for its reliability, the Civic is a fantastic pick for new drivers.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | 30 City / 37 Highway |
| Safety Rating | 5/5 (NHTSA) |
| Price | $22,000 |
When you’re picking your first car, think about fuel efficiency, safety ratings, and overall value. These models offer a great mix of affordability, reliability, and cool features, making them perfect for new drivers. For more options, check out our guide on cheap cars for first-time drivers and safe used cars for new drivers.
Safety Features in Small Cars
Safety should be your number one concern when picking out the best small cars for new drivers. Knowing the safety ratings and features of these cars can help you make a smart choice. Two big names in safety evaluations are the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
NHTSA Safety Ratings
The NHTSA puts cars through tough crash tests and rates them from one to five stars, with five being the best. These ratings cover frontal crashes, side crashes, and rollovers. Here are some of the safest small cars for new drivers based on NHTSA ratings:
| Car Model | Overall Rating | Frontal Crash | Side Crash | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Toyota Corolla | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| 2023 Hyundai Elantra | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| 2023 Honda Civic | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| 2023 Nissan Versa | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Data courtesy of U.S. News & World Report
These ratings can help you figure out which cars are the safest and make a better choice for new drivers.
IIHS Top Safety Picks
The IIHS does its own crash tests and gives awards based on how well cars perform. The highest award is the Top Safety Pick+ designation. Here are some of the top small cars for new drivers that have received this recognition:
| Car Model | Overall Rating | Crashworthiness | Headlights | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Mazda3 | 9.9/10 | Good | Good/Acceptable | Advanced |
| 2023 Toyota Corolla | 9.5/10 | Good | Good | Advanced |
| 2023 Hyundai Elantra | 9.4/10 | Good | Good | Advanced |
| 2023 Honda Civic | 9.2/10 | Good | Good | Advanced |
| 2023 Nissan Versa | 9.1/10 | Good | Good | Advanced |
Data courtesy of U.S. News & World Report
The IIHS ratings look at crashworthiness, headlights, and safety features, giving you a full picture of a car’s safety. For more details on specific models, check out our articles on safe used cars for new drivers and cars for beginners.
When picking your first car, putting safety first can give you peace of mind as you hit the road. Make sure to consider both NHTSA and IIHS ratings to find the best small car for your needs. For more tips, check out our guides on cheap cars for first time drivers and best electric cars for first time drivers.
Affordable Options for New Drivers
Just got your license? Congrats! Now, let’s talk about getting you a set of wheels that won’t break the bank. Here are some top picks from Toyota, Ford, Honda, and Mazda that are perfect for new drivers.
Toyota
Toyota’s got your back if you’re looking for a reliable ride that won’t empty your wallet. Their cars are known for being fuel-efficient, dependable, and easy on the maintenance front.
| Model | Price Range | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Reliability Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | $20,000 – $25,000 | 30/38 | 8.5/10 |
| Toyota Prius | $25,000 – $30,000 | 54/50 | 9/10 |
Want to know more about why Toyota’s a solid pick for newbies? Check out this guide.
Ford
Ford’s got some great options if you’re on a budget. The Ford Maverick, for example, offers good cargo space and a hybrid engine that saves on gas.
| Model | Price Range | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Reliability Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Maverick | $21,000 – $27,000 | 42/33 | 8/10 |
| Ford Fiesta | $15,000 – $20,000 | 27/35 | 7.5/10 |
For more details, see our guide on cheap cars for first-time drivers.
Honda
Honda’s 2024 lineup is all about reliability and affordability. Plus, their cars hold their value well, which is a big plus if you plan to sell down the road.
| Model | Price Range | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Reliability Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic | $22,000 – $28,000 | 30/38 | 8.8/10 |
| Honda Accord | $26,000 – $32,000 | 30/38 | 9/10 |
Curious about Honda’s offerings? Read more here.
Mazda
Mazda’s known for giving you a luxury feel without the luxury price tag. Their cars are well-built, stylish, and won’t cost a fortune to maintain.
| Model | Price Range | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) | Reliability Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 | $21,000 – $27,000 | 28/36 | 8.7/10 |
| Mazda CX-30 | $23,000 – $29,000 | 24/31 | 8.5/10 |
For more options, check out our article on cars for beginners.
These brands offer some of the best small cars for new drivers, combining affordability, reliability, and strong safety features. By considering these options, you can find the perfect car to start your driving journey.
More Than Just Safety: What to Look for in a First Car
Picking the right car for a new driver isn’t just about safety. Let’s talk about three other biggies: fuel efficiency, reliability, and how well the car holds its value.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a big deal, especially if you’re watching your wallet. Cars that sip gas can save you a ton over time. According to Car and Driver, the 2024 Toyota Prius, 2024 Hyundai Elantra, and 2024 Hyundai Sonata are top picks for fuel efficiency.
| Car Model | Fuel Efficiency (MPG) |
|---|---|
| 2024 Toyota Prius | 56 |
| 2024 Hyundai Elantra | 54 |
| 2024 Hyundai Sonata | 52 |
Thinking green? Check out our guide on the best electric cars for first-time drivers.
Reliability
You want a car that won’t leave you stranded. Reliable cars need less fixing and are easier on the nerves. According to GOBankingRates, Toyota and Honda are champs in this department. Toyota’s hybrids and Honda’s solid safety and fuel efficiency make them great choices.
| Brand | Notable Models | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | Prius, Corolla | Excellent |
| Honda | Civic, Accord | Excellent |
Want more on this? Check out our piece on safe used cars for new drivers.
Value Retention
Value retention is about how well a car keeps its worth over time. This matters if you plan to sell your car down the road. Honda’s 2024 models, like the Accord, hold their value better than many others (GOBankingRates).
| Car Brand | 5-Year Resale Value (%) |
|---|---|
| Honda | 60 – 65 |
| Toyota | 55 – 60 |
| Mazda | 50 – 55 |
On a budget? Ford and Mazda offer solid, affordable cars that won’t break the bank on maintenance (GOBankingRates).
By thinking about fuel efficiency, reliability, and value retention, you’ll be better equipped to pick the perfect small car. For more wallet-friendly options, check out our list of cheap cars for first-time drivers.
Future of Driving: Semi-Autonomous Cars
Ready to hit the road? The future of driving is here, and it’s packed with semi-autonomous cars that make driving safer and more convenient. Let’s check out some of the coolest semi-autonomous systems available today.
GM’s Super Cruise System
GM’s Super Cruise system lets you drive hands-free on certain roads. You can find this tech in high-end models like the 2024 Cadillac Escalade, which starts at $93,195. Super Cruise combines adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and a driver attention system to keep you alert and safe.
| Vehicle Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Cadillac Escalade | $93,195 | Hands-free driving, driver attention system |
| 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe | $85,370 | Requires Advanced Technology package, driver assistance on mapped highways |
Looking for more options? Check out our cars for beginners with advanced features.
Tesla’s Autopilot Suite
Tesla’s Autopilot suite comes standard in the 2024 Tesla Model S, priced at $74,990. It includes lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. For an extra $6,000, you can upgrade to Enhanced Autopilot, which offers partially autonomous lane-change assist, highway driving, and park assist (U.S. News & World Report).
| Vehicle Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Tesla Model S | $74,990 | Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control |
| Enhanced Autopilot | +$6,000 | Partially autonomous lane-change assist, highway driving, park assist |
Want more info? Check out our guide on safe used cars for new drivers.
BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional Package
BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional package is available for the 2023 BMW X5, starting at $63,300. This $1,700 package includes traffic-jam assist and adaptive cruise control, allowing the car to steer below 40 mph in certain highway conditions (U.S. News & World Report).
| Vehicle Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 BMW X5 | $63,300 | Traffic-jam assist, adaptive cruise control |
| Driving Assistance Package | +$1,700 | Automatic steering below 40 mph |
Looking for a budget-friendly option? Explore our list of cheap cars for first-time drivers.
To get the scoop on the best small cars for new drivers, consider these semi-autonomous features and see how they can make your driving experience better.
