The Safest Vehicles for New Drivers

Your teenager’s driving journey should be as safe as it is exciting. Discover our guide to the safest vehicles for new drivers, complete with top-rated vehicles, to help you make an informed decision on the right car for your teen driver. 

Understanding Safe Vehicle Ratings

Safety ratings are a great starting point in your search for a safe vehicle. Organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provide ratings based on several crash tests. Look for vehicles that have earned good ratings from these bodies. 

Best Safety Features for New Drivers

Navigating the roads as a new driver can be challenging, but modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features that provide an extra layer of protection.  Some key technologies are especially beneficial for new drivers.

Automatic emergency braking (AEB): AEB systems sense potential collisions and can apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time. 

Adaptive cruise control: This smart driving feature adjusts your speed to keep you at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. 

Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist: These features alert you when you’ve drifted out of the lane and can gently steer you back. 

Rearview camera and parking assist: Useful for drivers with limited parking experience, these features detect parking spaces and obstacles to help guide your parking. 

Blind spot detection: When you make a lane change, this system alerts you when there’s a vehicle in your blind spot.

Electronic stability control: This critical feature helps control skidding and loss of traction. When the car starts to slide, it helps stabilize the vehicle and keep it on its intended path.

Top Safe Car Choices 

Here are some of the vehicles that received a 2022 IIHS top safety pick award. 

Toyota Highlander: Known for its robust safety features, the Highlander has received high marks for its ability to withstand various crash scenarios. It’s equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a set of advanced active safety features including pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. 

Honda HR-V: The Honda HR-V is a compact SUV that has made a name for itself in safety. It offers stability and agility, which are crucial for new drivers. The HR-V also comes with Honda Sensing technologies, providing collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. 

Ford Bronco: The Ford Bronco is a robust and safety-conscious option, especially for new drivers seeking a blend of adventure and security. It comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of safety features including a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, and auto high-beam headlamps. 

Subaru Outback: The Subaru Outback is not only versatile and comfortable but also one of the safest in its class. With Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, it offers adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist functions. 

Nissan Pathfinder: The Nissan Pathfinder is another top contender, with a focus on family safety. It includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot warning, making it a reliable choice for new drivers.

Other Considerations

Vehicle size and type

Small cars are often more manageable for new drivers but may offer less protection in a crash than larger ones. They’re typically easier to handle and park, which can be a significant advantage for those still getting accustomed to driving. On the other hand, larger vehicles, like SUVs, tend to have more mass, which can offer better protection in accidents. However, their size can make them more challenging to maneuver, especially in tight urban environments.

Reliability

Reliability is key when choosing a vehicle for a new driver. A car that’s prone to breakdowns not only causes inconvenience but can also be a major safety risk. Inexperienced drivers might find themselves in challenging situations if their car malfunctions on busy roads or in remote areas. Therefore, opt for models known for their long-term reliability and low maintenance requirements.

Insurance costs

Insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s safety features, size, and type. Generally, safer cars might attract higher insurance costs due to their advanced technology. However, the increased safety they provide can be worth the extra expense. New drivers or their guardians should research and compare insurance costs for different models while considering their safety features.

Take the next step toward becoming a safe driver. Enroll in a Stop and Go driving course and enhance your skills behind the wheel.