Making the Safe Choice
Kelley Blue Book has turned households with teen drivers onto safe and affordable options for their vehicles of choice
Teen drivers crash more than four times as often per mile as drivers 20 and older, according to Kelley Blue Book.
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Teen drivers have a disproportionately high crash rate compared to drivers 20 and older, according to Kelley Blue Book, which makes the type of vehicle they drive a key decision for families.
KBB, considering safety features such as crash-test results, reliability, repair costs and insurance rates, recommends vehicles made after 2013 because they come with antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. The top recommended features also include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning.
It points out that some automakers, including Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota, even offer ways to monitor and set limits for teen drivers.
KBB, citing Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recommendations, guides teen households to avoid vehicles that are too small, too old or have excessive power. It also points out that larger cars often provide greater occupant protection than very small cars, but cars that are too large can be difficult for inexperienced drivers to drive and park.
The company also recognized the need for affordable options in today’s wallet-stretched market. Below are a few examples it provided based on affordability and features. View the full list here.
New Under $30,000
- 2026 Honda HR-V
- 2026 Toyota Prius
- 2026 Mazda CX-30
Used Under $20,000
- 2017 Toyota RAV4
- 2020 Mazda CX-5
- 2018 Honda CR-V
Used Under $15,000
- 2017 Subaru Forester
- 2017 Toyota Corolla
- 2015 Honda Accord
Used Under $10,000
- 2013 Toyota Camry
- 2014 Mazda3
- 2009 Honda Element
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