The Best Cars for Teens in 2023
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With car prices soaring and the threat of recession looming over Americans, getting a new ride may not seem like a top priority. But for many teens across the country, this is the moment they’ve been waiting for their whole lives — a chance to get their driver’s license and taste freedom on the open road. With so much at stake, it’s important for parents to ensure their teen drivers are behind the wheel of a safe and reliable vehicle. Fortunately, Consumer Reports has compiled a list of the best cars on the market. These vehicles are top-rated in crash tests, have excellent safety ratings, and feature a variety of features to keep teen drivers safe and connected.
1. Subaru Impreza 2023
This affordable compact SUV is a favorite among families, with its spacious cabin, ample cargo space, and comfortable seats. Its fuel economy is also impressive at an average of 48 mpg. The latest Impreza offers a variety of safety and tech features that make it an even better choice, including Apple CarPlay, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
2. Toyota Sienna 2023
The Sienna is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs on the market, with a high safety rating and excellent crash test results. It’s also loaded with must-have features, such as a rearview camera, rear parking assist, and an adaptive cruise control system. Plus, the Toyota Sienna has a smooth ride and offers a variety of drive modes to suit different driving conditions.
3. BMW i4 2023
The i4 is an electric sports sedan that delivers on its promises. Its acceleration, handling, and smart packaging all set it apart from other electric vehicles. And its value is hard to beat. The only downside is that it’s currently only available with a manual transmission.
4. Mercedes-Benz E 63 S 2023
The E-Class is one of the most refined and technologically advanced daily drivers you can buy today. It delivers a smooth and luxurious ride, plenty of room for passengers, a variety of luxury features, and smile-inducing performance.
5. Volkswagen Golf 2023
The Golf is one of the most popular models in America, and for good reason. It offers great gas mileage, an extensive suite of standard safety features, and a fun-to-drive feel. This model is even more appealing this year with the addition of a plug-in hybrid version that can travel 41 miles on electricity alone.
6. Nissan Murano 2022
The Murano is an excellent affordable small SUV for families with a solid track record in reliability and safety. It also has a nice cabin and lots of features for the money, including Bluetooth connectivity and Android Auto.
7. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392
The new Wrangler is a force on-road and off. It can tackle serious off-road terrain, has a ton of tech and off-road capability, and is a blast to drive. It’s also available with a powerful V8 engine and a hybrid powertrain that can do a 20-mile commute without using a drop of gasoline.