Getting your first car is a rite of passage for many teens. But before you rush out and buy the coolest car you can find, it’s important to weigh each vehicle’s pros and cons to ensure you get a reliable ride. This article will discuss some of the worst cars you should avoid when selecting your first set of wheels. From gas guzzlers to safety hazards, we’ll highlight what makes these vehicles unsuitable choices for teen drivers – so let’s dive in!
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Worst First Cars For A Teen
It’s no secret that teens have a penchant for cool cars. However, these vehicles are only sometimes the best choice due to their high maintenance costs and safety concerns. Below is a list of some of the worst first cars you should avoid when starting as a new driver:
Jeep Wrangler
Owning a Jeep Wrangler is generally not the best idea when buying a teen’s first car. The main reason for this is that the engine of a Jeep Wrangler can be rather costly to repair and maintain, which makes it an expensive vehicle to own. Furthermore, it has a high risk of rollover, and teens don’t usually have much experience behind the wheel yet, so having such a powerful and heavy vehicle can be dangerous.
Moreover, Jeeps are known as highly visible theft targets due to their huge size and windows. Therefore, even if you are determined to buy one for your adolescent child, ensure they are aware of the risks and keep their valuables safe inside.
Hummer H1
The Hummer H1 would be on the ‘worst’ list of choices for a teen seeking their first car. Not only does it have an exorbitant cost that would be out of reach for many teens, but it is also notoriously gas-guzzling, having an estimated fuel economy of 8 mpg (miles per gallon).
Practicality and ability to handle city terrains, too, come into question, owing to the size and sluggishness of the vehicle making it more suited for offroading. Moreover, insurance premiums for teens driving such cars are significantly higher than for smaller vehicles due to their higher risk profile. Thus looking at all these factors, the Hummer H1 can be ruled out from a list of cars suitable for teens purchasing their first car.
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger is not an ideal first car for a teen due to its size and lack of safety features. Although it might seem a great option at first due to its flashy exterior and classic muscle-car look, such appearances can be deceiving. The large body of the Challenger carries substantial weight, making it difficult for younger drivers to operate safely and precisely when in traffic or parking.
Furthermore, many Challengers feature outdated technology that only offers adequate protection for passengers with added modifications. A potential owner would have to invest extra money into safety measures such as airbags and blind spot sensors to make the vehicle safer than it currently is. Unless the owner plans to invest more time and money into the car post-purchase, this classic beauty should stay on dealer lots and off the street as a teen’s first car.
Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro might be popular among classic car enthusiasts, but it’s one of the worst first cars for a teen. This muscle car packs a powerful V8 engine with plenty of horsepowers, which is great for tearing up the roads…if your teen has experience driving such a powerful vehicle. With its small size and hard-to-see blind spots, the Camaro isn’t ideal for young drivers who need better visibility and more space to feel comfortable behind the wheel.
Plus, even with a basic trim, this two-door sports car offers few safety features and will likely produce high insurance premiums compared to other models in its class. So unless your teen already has pro-driving skills, they’re better off looking at another model for their first set of wheels.
Subaru WRX
Although the Subaru WRX has the power and design many teens long for, it is a terrible choice when considering their first car. Despite featuring potent engine options, the WRX is made for performance driving, meaning its power may be too much for inexperienced drivers.
Although purchasing a Subaru WRX may seem like an excellent idea initially, its risks make it an unsuitable option, especially for those lacking experience behind the wheel. Furthermore, its heavy price tag can prove to be a burden on families with teens just starting to drive. Insurance costs can also add further strain as they are typically high with sports cars such as the WRX.
Mazda RX8
The Mazda RX8 is generally not ideal for young drivers due to its power, complexity, and price tag. All these factors make the Mazda RX8 a high-maintenance vehicle unsuitable for teenagers just starting on the road. Not only does it require an experienced driver to handle its powerful engine, but its complex design also makes upkeep and repairs more complicated than one might expect from a car that is intended for the teenage market.
Furthermore, the higher cost associated with a vehicle like this could present financial strains for many teens who need sufficient funds or resources. In conclusion, while the Mazda RX8 may be tempting for some young drivers, this sports car is best left to experienced motorists with enough money to cover its expensive running costs.
Best First Cars For A Teen
Now that you’ve seen the worst options out there let’s look at some of the best first cars for a teen. These models are affordable, safe, and easy to drive, making them the perfect choice for any new driver looking to hit the road confidently.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is an excellent choice for a teen’s first car. Not only is it reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable, but its modern design, technology, and safety features make it one of the best cars on the market. Additionally, its modest size is perfect for inexperienced drivers; it’s large enough to be comfortable but smaller that they feel they’re in something too powerful.
Knowing that you’re giving your teen a dependable car with top-of-the-line safety features like anti-lock brakes and advanced airbags can give parents the confidence to let their kids hit the roads for the first time. It’s no wonder why the Honda Civic is the undisputed king of first cars for teenage drivers. The Civic’s ability to provide peace of mind sets it apart from many other vehicles suitable for teens.
Toyota Corolla
If you’re looking for a reliable, safe, and easy-to-drive car for your teen, look no further than the Toyota Corolla. Its long history of reliability and safety features can provide peace of mind as your teenager heads out on their own. Its reliable track record provides a good base for long-term ownership, while its smaller size can keep fuel costs low.
From crash testing to onboard tech options, the Corolla is all set up to offer function and comfort in an everyday drive. Its knack for simplicity and affordability makes it an ideal choice as the first car for many teens and their parents alike. Plus, with one of the lower price tags among compact cars, it’s not hard to manage the budget.
Toyota Camry
Reliability and affordability often guide a big decision for a first-time car buyer. From this perspective, the Toyota Camry is an excellent choice. This classic model has moderate power and is equipped with fantastic safety features – including a rearview camera with an intuitive display that you can use to back up quickly.
Its midsize frame is also suitable for tight spaces and has proven incredibly reliable over the years. Add its excellent fuel efficiency, comfortable interior design, and well-balanced suspension – and you have an excellent option for teenage drivers!
Consider These Best And Worst First Cars When Deciding On A Purchase
There are several factors to consider when deciding on the first car for your teen. Factors such as reliability, affordability, and safety should all be considered. Some options include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, while models like the Mazda RX8 and Ford Mustang are best left to more experienced drivers. When deciding, do plenty of research and consider both pros and cons of each option. Good luck!
