More New Cars for First-Time Drivers
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Top Picks for First-Time Drivers
First-time drivers need safe, reliable transportation that won't break the bank. From a pool that included our Best Bets and all the newer cars we've driven since, we considered coupes, sedans, convertibles, hatchbacks, SUVs and regular-cab pickup trucks that cost less than $20,000. Top criteria included overall value and safety features, but our experts also considered gas mileage, exterior styling and interior comfort.
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Editors' Choices for First-Time Drivers
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Honda Civic (2010) Starting MSRP $15,455 Practical and stylish are the best words to sum up the Honda Civic. You'll want — or at least your parents will — to stay away from the performance Si version, and you'll also want to add the optional electronic stability system. You'll be rewarded knowing your first-timer is driving a safe car that gets good mileage. Research this car Build this car ![]() |
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Subaru Impreza (2010) Starting MSRP $17,495 Remember these acronyms: GT, WRX, STI … and don't pick them, as they're the hot-rod versions of the Impreza. Once you've done that, there's only the decision of whether you want the sedan or hatchback. Either is fine for the new driver because they both offer a standard electronic stability system, a good driving position and standard all-wheel drive. Research this car Build this car ![]() |
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Toyota Matrix (2010) Starting MSRP $16,550 The Matrix is a hatchback with plenty of room for your first-timer to carry his books. Yeah, right. Anyway, it does have excellent visibility. It's easy to maneuver in the city and comes with a standard electronic stability system. Despite its small size, the rear seat is fairly large and comfortable. Research this car Build this car ![]() |
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Toyota Tacoma (2010) Starting MSRP $15,345 Since the days of "Back to the Future," many a teenage male has lusted for Toyota's junior pickup. Perhaps parents can finally get on board: With six standard airbags, stability control and a stereo with an MP3 jack, this is hardly Marty McFly's 4x4. Research this car Build this car ![]() |
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Volkswagen Golf (2010) Starting MSRP $17,490 The Golf blends good interior quality with small dimensions for a car that any newbie can feel confident and safe driving. It comes with an electronic stability system standard and also gives you the option of a high-mileage diesel version. Don't be tricked into thinking the GTI, which looks similar, is the same as a Golf — it's the performance variant. Research this car Build this car ![]() |
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Volkswagen Jetta (2010) Starting MSRP $17,605 You don't have to give up a sense of style in your first-time car. The Jetta has always had a great interior, and the outside doesn't disappoint either. For the gearhead, the Jetta offers a choice of a diesel or two gas engines, and you can get it as a wagon, if you're the sort who has friends. Research this car Build this car ![]() |

Best New Car for First-Time Drivers
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