By Heather Listhartke
For those of us with teenagers who are getting ready for their first car, we want to do everything that we can to make sure they choose a vehicle that is right for them, is safe, and will be reliable. While some vehicle brands have classically been known as great choices for new drivers, like Toyota and Honda, but there are also many newer vehicles that have shown their value for those just learning to drive.
Chevy
Received Top Rated Safety & Reliability Awards
Chevrolet has made a huge splash into the scene of reliable vehicles with three of their major car models: the Sonic, Malibu and the Spark. These vehicles range in size from compact hatches to full-size sedan. Their new features and redesigns have made them huge sellers in the last few years, and make great options for having a newer vehicle.
Honda & Toyota
Among brands that have classically been known to be dependable whether they are bought new or used, are Honda and Toyota. Both have been sought after frequently because they are known for their safety and reliability due to decades of awards. Honda’s Accord and Toyota’s Camry are both great options with high gas mileage and good safety ratings. Although they tend to range slightly higher price wise, the benefits gained by these being full sized sedans make them great options for young drivers. For smaller options, the Civic and the Prius make great options.
Mazda & Volkswagen
Mazda and Volkswagen have also been brands that are known for their reliability over the years, although they tend to be priced higher with lower ratings overall. These still make great options for new driver vehicles new or used because of the great safety features and overall good gas mileage. Mazda has multiple options that are great, but the best available is the Mazda3 as it comes in both sedan and hatchback. Volkswagen also has multiple vehicles that are great for new drivers from the Passat, the Golf, and the Jetta.
Hyundai and Kia
Korean-made vehicles, though originally known as being cheap and hit-or-miss on their reliability, has made major changes in the last few years. Those that own Hyundai and Kia know that their vehicles have made huge strides and are at the top of the safety ratings when it comes to vehicles. They also are great for their value as they have the most up-to-date technology and safety features factory ready with more advanced options available for add-ons. Hyundai’s two sedans, the Elantra and the Sonata, have both been ranked on multiple lists. The Elantra is priced more reasonably and is considered more of a mid-size sedan, while the Sonata and the Kia Optima are full sized options available.
For those looking for an SUV or crossovers, the Kia Soul and the Scion XB are great options whether you are buying used or new. The Soul is a smaller sized SUV that’s priced reasonably, while used Scions 2008 or newer are slightly bigger, but great if you have multiple people and need back seat leg room.
Visit Walker Chevrolet in Franklin at 3940 Carothers Pkwy, Franklin, TN 37067.
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