So, the acceptance letter has arrived and now you’re about to send your kid to college! It is an exciting time for the student as well as the whole family. But many things have to be taken care of, and one of the most important ones is assuring that just the right vehicle is selected. One of the main parameters is that the car is safe and dependable.
You will sleep more easily knowing your youth is in a vehicle that rates well when it comes to road safety and that it won’t leave you stranded by the side of the road when he or she is in a rush to get to class or return home. And while you might be inclined towards an affordable, small car, The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety actually recommends midsize and large cars as ideal for teen drivers and their needs. This choice is hard to make, which is why we have prepared for you this handy guide that will help you decide on which car is right for YOU.
5. 2016 Chrysler 200
Source: test.tsintl.chrysler.com
Chrysler 200 is fast, comfortable, safe and comes fully equipped with a high-end entertainment system guaranteed to cover all of your teen’s driving and roadside needs. The backseat is a little cramped, but it more than makes up for that with a very spacious trunk that will come useful for school projects, regular every day use and maybe even a trip back home! With a strong V-6 engine and the optional four-wheel drive, and starting at $22,895 the Chrysler 200 is a good all-around choice.
4. 2016 Hyundai Elantra
Source: hyundaicanada.com
Hyundai Elantra is another IIHS Top Safety Pick on this list, and also received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, which makes it one of the safest vehicles on this list, according to the experts. This is possibly aided in part by the fact that, while classified as a midsize car, it’s one of the biggest cars around in that category. It also earns points by being at a slightly lower price point than most other cars on this list, starting at only $15,799, in true Hyundai tradition. With a 2 liter engine and 173 horsepower, you’re getting great bang for your buck – there can be no complaints from your young student either; there are mp3 and iPod capabilities as well as the option for inbuilt navigation system.
3. 2016 Subaru Legacy
Source: easthillssubaru.com
With the 2015 model receiving the highest five-star rating from the NHTSA and being classified Top Safety Pick by the IIHS this makes the 2016 follow-up Subaru Legacy one of the safest vehicles on this list. By taking what was great from the older model, Subaru have incorporated these safety features and more allowing you peace of mind on the well-being of your young driver. Its subtle wheel, all-wheel drive, state of the art infotainment system and fancy interiors only add value and are a vast improvement over the 2014 edition. Automobile magazine called it “efficient, handsome and refined” and starting at only $21,745 we could not agree more.
2. 2016 Mazda 6
Source: mazdaofmidland.com
Mazda6 is the slighter but more agile than its cousin CX-5, with slightly less room but a more luxurious interior. The most important part is that it retains Mazda’s famous great fuel economy. Both the body and the interface are streamlined for a simple and elegant ride with no clutter. It comes with USB ports, Bluetooth and other electronic amenities including surround sound speakers and an optional voice-activated navigation system. Mazda6 is the sort of ride one might find next to the word “car” in the dictionary, but its lack of frills could be an asset as it would help keep the focus on driving.
1. 2016 Toyota Camry
Source: edmunds.com
Toyota vehicles are famous for their ease of use, reliability, and functionality, and the 2016 Camry is no different. Critics also praise it for its extraordinarily quiet cabin. Many optional features make it pretty customizable and easy to tailor to your needs. With a high fuel efficiency rating and plenty of up-to-date technology to keep your student happy, the Toyota Camry is a comfortable car that works as an all-purpose vehicle and is probably one of the most long-term lasting vehicles on this list. It also has excellent safety ratings.
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