2024 Subaru Outback

Find out which cars under $40,000 have received two of the industry’s best safety awards.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports have released their annual list of recommended vehicles for teens, and the 2024 list offers more safety for less, as used- and new-car prices stabilize.

The 71 vehicles that qualified for the awards for 2024 is an increase of 23 over 2023, when stricter requirements began to take effect.

Along with crash tests, safety features and accommodation of family members and their gear, we consider family-friendly features, car-seat fitment and overall excellence.

An increasing number of vehicles with sticker prices of $40,000 or less, some much less, offer heated mirrors.

Wheel warming has gone mainstream, with the feature standard or optional not just on luxury vehicles, but on an increasing number of models with sticker prices of $40,000 or less.

The 2024 Legacy sedan and Outback SUV both receive technology and equipment updates in addition to modest price upticks.