Perfect Cars For First Time Drivers

Ford For most young people and their parents, purchasing a first car is a major step.
1 great solution is to look at used cars, which can often be had for a fraction of the cost of new versions. We came up with 15 used cars we think are the best for the youthful car buyer on a budget.
To make our record, we concentrated on cars that are on the market right now for under $15,000. We looked for people that are reliable, fun to drive, comfortable, appealing, economical, functional, and first and foremost, secure.
For security, we checked out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) average front Door crash test ratings for the cars we picked.
Prices are based on present prices on Autotrader.com and reflect the lowest cost we think a decent example may cost.

1999-2006 Toyota Celica

Starting price: $5,500 and up IIHS crash test rating: Good Why buy itThe Toyota Celica sub-compact sports car is quick, enjoyable to drive, reliable, and provides a surprising level of utility. Powered by either a 140 or 180 horsepower four-cylinder motor, the Celica's spirited performance does not diminish is high fuel economy ratings. As a sports car, beware of copies that were abused by boy racers or have had low-quality after market modifications, as they might decrease the long-term sturdiness of the car.

2011-Present Volkswagen Jetta TDI $13,500

Starting price: $12,500 and up IIHS crash test rating: Great Why buy itThe sixth generation Volkswagen Jetta offers buyers a pleasure European sports compact sedan with a decidedly upmarket feel. For the value-minded customer, the diesel TDI engine option provides great selection and fuel economy in a powerful package. However, just like any technologically innovative European sedan, take time to look for a well preserved lower mileage example, as out-of-warranty repairs to your automobile may become pricey.

2012-Present Ford Focus

Starting price: $9,000 and up IIHS crash test rating: Good Why buy it: Since its inception in 1998, the Focus has been a star performer for Ford. But for year, Ford's US and European branch sold distinct cars beneath the "Focus" title -- together with the European version much better received. For 2012, the third generation Ford merged the version and finally gave the US Focus clients the European car they'd been waiting for. Power for Emphasis comes from a 2.0 liter 160 horsepower inline four cylinder engine. People searching for higher performance can select the critically acclaimed 252 hp Focus ST -- although even used examples of this model might be pricey.

2005-2012 Acura RL

Starting price: $14,500 and upward IIHS crash test rating: Good Why buy itThe Acura RL was Honda's flagship model and is the most expensive car on the list. When fresh, the RL retailed for around $50,000, however, used examples can be found for far less. As Honda's flagship, the company unloaded its technological goody bag for the RL. Top of the line models come with onboard navigation, a premium sound system, active sound cancellation, a ceramic drive-shaft, handmade walnut wood beams, and a slew of modern security features. The Rl's innovative "super managing " all-wheel-drive system and powerful 300 horsepower V-6 gives the car a truly premium driving experience.