Cars That Are Perfect For New Drivers

If you are a new driver, you may be more likely to make mistakes and cause a collision due to your lack of experience behind the wheel. Besides being more careful on the road, you can reduce your accident risk by choosing a safer vehicle. Some vehicle models are considered more suitable for beginner drivers because of their easy drivability, good stopping power, or great safety features. If you’re planning to buy a used vehicle for yourself or your teenager, check out this list of the safest new-driver cars from the past 10 years.

Volkswagen Jetta

Image by Greg Gjerdingen | Licensed with CC BY 2.0

Volkswagen Jetta models from 2015 onwards have been included in the Best Choices list of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Other than basic safety features, such as airbags and anti-lock brakes, this sedan has an array of available driver-assistance technologies to help prevent collisions, such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alerts, and parking sensors. It also offers the Car-Net telematics system as an option. This system allows you to set boundary limits for your teen driver and receive automatic crash alerts and auto service reminders.

Due to its compact size, the Jetta is a breeze to maneuver in parking lots and congested traffic, making it ideal for urban driving. It also inspires confidence with its stable handling and solid stopping power. This Volkswagen model not only delivers a great driving experience, but it also features a roomy and comfortable cabin and a large trunk.

Mazda 6

Another highly recommended used car model for new and teen drivers is the Mazda 6. Models of this midsize sedan, from 2014 to 2019, made the IIHS’ list of Best Choices for safe cars and earned excellent scores in crash safety tests with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). For enhanced safety, opt for a 2019 model, which comes standard with plenty of active safety features. These include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alerts.

In addition, the Mazda 6 makes you feel safe behind the wheel with its composed handling. Thanks to its low center of gravity, it’s capable of staying well planted around turns, showing minimal body lean. It also does a great job of smoothing out uneven surfaces, resulting in a comfortable and tranquil ride. An upscale and well-equipped interior further adds to its appeal.

Toyota Avalon

If you prefer a larger car, it’s a good idea to buy a pre-owned Toyota Avalon, specifically a model from 2015 or later. Due to its outstanding crash-protection capabilities, this full-size sedan received top-notch ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. The more recent models of the Avalon have a long list of advanced safety technologies to help you prevent accidents, including pedestrian monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. There’s also a voice recognition system that enables you to use certain functions and adjust settings without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

The Toyota Avalon is a great choice if you frequently drive around with multiple passengers. Its spacious seating keeps everybody feeling comfortable even on long journeys, while its sumptuous cabin makes it a delightful place to spend time. Additionally, this Toyota will impress you with its polished driving manners. It has a compliant suspension that provides a cushioned ride in almost any situation and nimble handling that makes it drive like a smaller car.

Honda CR-V

If you have an active lifestyle, consider getting the versatile Honda CR-V. Whether you’re running errands in town or negotiating winding country roads, you can expect this midsize SUV to perform well. With its sharp steering and responsive handling, it’s more pleasant to drive than most other models in its class. It also delivers outstanding fuel economy, which can help you save a lot in the long run. On the inside, the CR-V features a refined cabin that uses plenty of premium-quality materials. It offers adult-friendly legroom in both rows and a cavernous cargo area.

The IIHS regards the 2015 or newer Honda CR-V models as one of the safest SUVs on the used car market. If you want to have the latest safety systems, it’s best that you choose a model from 2020 onwards. For 2020, even the entry-level CR-V is equipped with a wide range of driver-assistance technologies, which include forward collision warning, automatic high beams, road departure mitigation system, and adaptive cruise control. The top trim comes with rain-sensing windshield wipers for improved visibility in inclement weather.

Ford Edge

Another SUV that has a stellar safety rating is the 2020 Ford Edge. Every trim of this Ford model is packed to the brim with active safety equipment. In addition, it comes standard with the MyKey system, which is one of the most advanced safety features for new drivers in the auto industry. You can use this system to set the maximum speed and audio volume for your teen driver.

Despite being a relatively large vehicle, the Ford Edge is surprisingly easy to drive partly because of its light steering. Its well-tuned suspension is firm enough to keep it sure-footed around corners, but still soft enough to soak up rough surfaces. Furthermore, this SUV boasts a classy and well-appointed interior, which comes complete with soft-touch materials and aesthetically pleasing accents. To help you stay connected and entertained on the go, there’s a user-friendly infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Used Cars At Our VW Dealership

If you’re looking for the best deals on used cars for new drivers in or near Louisville, Kentucky, we invite you to drop by Bachman Volkswagen to tour our fantastic pre-owned inventory. Besides pre-owned Volkswagens, we also carry used vehicles from other automakers. Our dealership is one of the most preferred destinations among used car shoppers in the Louisville area because of our quality vehicles, hard-to-beat prices, and easy financing solutions. Our devoted team is ready and eager to help you drive home a used vehicle that suits your budget and needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.