Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports: Safer Cars for Teen Drivers

Teens are almost three times more likely to be involved in a fatal car accident than drivers who are older. Consumer Reports says it's important to make sure your teen is driving the safest car possible.

It's a mistake to buy a very old car for a new teen driver, because it's going to lack some of the very important safety features that might save lives.

Most important is electronic stability control, which helps keep drivers from spinning out or rolling over.

And side curtain airbags are also critical. They not only provide a cushion, but they also can help keep passengers inside during an accident.

Consumer Reports recommends a mid-sized or a large sedan for teenage drivers. They're lower to the ground, so it makes the vehicles less prone to roll over. And they're easier to maneuver than a big SUV.

Consumer Reports has combed through its test results to find good used-car options that have the recommended safety features, are reliable, and are under $10,000. They include:

  • The 2006 to 2010 Hyundai Sonata non-turbo 4-cylinder
  • The 2009 to 2012 Chevrolet Malibu four cylinder
  • The 2009 to 2013 Mazda 6i

In all, Consumer Reports has identified 10 used cars for under $10,000 that are good choices for teen drivers.

Complete Ratings and recommendations on all kinds of products, including appliances, cars and trucks, and electronic gear are available onConsumer Reports' website.

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