Whether you’re buying your first set of wheels, or picking out the perfect car for the new driver in your household, it’s important to find a ride that builds confidence and prioritizes safety—without breaking the bank.
Here’s a rundown of the 15 best first cars for new drivers in 2024—including key factors like safety features, gas mileage, price, plus the inside scoop on which cars made the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) 2024 top safety picks* .
Keep in mind: All data listed in this article is for the latest models, but older models and the used cars of these models can also be highly reliable—not to mention more budget-friendly.
1. Toyota Prius
Starting MSRP: $27,950
Estimated combined MPG: Up to 57
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door hatchback
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Safe Exit Alert: Rear bumper radar sensors can detect approaching vehicles and bicycles, and provide audio and visual alerts when it’s unsafe to open the door, which can be helpful when exiting your car on busy streets.
- Proactive Driving Assist: Can help maintain safe distance between other vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, with gentle braking and steering, especially around curves.
The Toyota Prius, as a hybrid, helps new drivers save on fuel with fewer refueling stops. Its ToyotaCare program offers a no-cost maintenance plan for two years or 25,000 miles, along with 24-hour roadside assistance, for added peace of mind. Toyota’s TeenDrive365 program also supports new drivers with resources to foster safe driving practices.
Discover Toyota Prius insurance costs to plan ahead.
2. Honda Accord
Starting MSRP: $27,895
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 33
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door sedan
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Traffic Sign Recognition: The system identifies and displays important road signs, such as speed limits, to keep you informed as you drive.
- Collision Mitigation Braking: If a potential frontal collision is detected, the system automatically applies the brakes to help lessen the impact or avoid it entirely.
- Road Departure Mitigation: This feature tracks lane markings and provides warnings if you’re about to veer off the road, applying gentle steering and braking to help keep you on course.
The Honda Accord offers a spacious interior and a reputation for reliability, making it a practical choice for new drivers. HondaLink provides useful tools such as remote start and vehicle diagnostics, which can help monitor the car’s condition and ensure safe operation. This car also includes the Honda Sensing Suite, which features a range of safety and assistance technologies for both the driver and passengers.
Explore Honda Accord insurance costs for better budgeting.
3. Mazda 3
Starting MSRP: $23,950
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 32
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door hatchback
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA.
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping you change lanes with confidence.
- 360° View Monitor: Provides a bird’s-eye view around your car to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching vehicles from the sides when you’re reversing, making backing out of spaces safer.
The Mazda 3’s sporty handling and precise steering make it a fun and engaging car for new drivers. Mazda’s infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to stay connected safely with hands-free controls. Mazda’s i-Activsense system can alert drivers about upcoming hazards to enhance visibility, awareness, and collision prevention.
Learn about Mazda 3 insurance costs before you buy.
4. Honda Civic
Starting MSRP: $24,250
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 36
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Collision Mitigation Braking: Applies the brakes if it senses an impending frontal collision, helping to reduce the severity of an impact.
- Road Departure Mitigation: Detects if you’re unintentionally drifting out of your lane and provides corrective steering and braking to keep you on the road.
The Honda Civic’s excellent fuel efficiency and low insurance costs make it a great choice for new drivers. Honda’s Roadside Assistance and the Honda Sensing suite offer additional safety features and support, enhancing the driving experience.
Find out Honda Civic insurance costs to prepare yourself.
5. Hyundai Elantra
Starting MSRP: $21,625
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 36
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door sedan
Safety Rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist: Uses speed limit information to help you maintain a safe and legal speed.
- Driver Attention Warning: Monitors your driving patterns and alerts you if signs of drowsy or distracted driving are detected.
- Safe Exit Warning: Alerts passengers if it’s unsafe to open the door due to approaching traffic, helping to avoid accidents when exiting the vehicle.
The Hyundai Elantra offers a modern design and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for new drivers. Hyundai’s complimentary maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, along with their strong warranty, provides added value and peace of mind. Additionally, the Elantra earned the title of Best New Car for Teens from US News & World Report.
Check Hyundai Elantra insurance costs to stay informed.
6. Kia Sportage
Starting MSRP: $27,190
Estimated Combined MPG: 32
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door SUV
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Driver Assistant Technology: Offers a suite of features that support you in various driving situations, enhancing safety and comfort.
- Lane-Keeping Assist: Helps you stay within your lane by gently steering the vehicle back into position if it detects drifting.
- Park Distance Warning: Uses sensors to detect objects around your vehicle while parking, alerting you to potential obstacles.
The Kia Sportage offers a roomy interior and a smooth ride, making it a practical choice for new drivers. Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds extra security, and the UVO infotainment system helps drivers stay connected safely.
Review Kia Sportage insurance costs before making a decision.
7. Subaru Impreza
Starting MSRP: $22,995
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 30
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door wagon
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: All Wheel Drive (AWD)\
Safety features:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Includes a set of advanced safety features that monitor traffic, optimize cruise control, and warn you when you sway outside your lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, helping to reduce the stress of long drives.
The Subaru Impreza’s standard AWD provides extra confidence in various weather conditions. Its spacious interior and rear seats make it practical for new drivers and passengers alike. Subaru’s STARLINK Safety and Security provides additional safety features and support.
Understand Subaru Impreza insurance costs for better insight.
8. Toyota Corolla
Starting MSRP: $22,050
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 35
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Pre-Collision Systems: Uses sensors to detect potential collisions and assists with braking to help avoid or reduce the impact of a crash.
- Lane Departure Alerts: Warns you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane and provides gentle steering assistance to help you stay on track.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a preset speed and distance from the car ahead, automatically adjusting speed to keep a safe following distance.
The Toyota Corolla’s reliability and fuel efficiency make it a strong choice for new drivers. With Toyota’s Safety Connect and available Wi-Fi connectivity, young drivers enjoy added convenience and security. Plus, the Toyota Corolla’s dependable performance and excellent fuel efficiency enhance its appeal. Toyota’s TeenDrive365 program also provides valuable resources and support to help new drivers develop safe driving habits.
Explore Toyota Corolla insurance costs for financial planning.
9. Nissan Sentra
Starting MSRP: $21,180
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 35
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Safety Shield 360: A suite of six advanced safety features designed to help look out for you and your passengers, from every angle.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a potential impact is detected.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts you to approaching traffic from either side as you reverse, making it safer to back out of parking spots.
The Nissan Sentra offers a stylish design and a comfortable interior. It includes dynamic driving technologies such as Intelligent Engine Brake, Intelligent Trace Control, Active Ride Control, and hill start assist to assist with handling bumps, curves, and hills. The NissanConnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enhances connectivity while keeping new drivers safe on the road.
Learn about Nissan Sentra insurance costs to manage your budget.
10. Volkswagen Jetta
Starting Price: $21,345
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 35
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts drivers to potential front-end collisions, allowing for timely reactions to reduce crash risks.
- Intelligent Crash Response System: Automatically unlocks doors and activates hazard lights in the event of an accident, ensuring safety post-crash.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Monitors adjacent lanes for vehicles, providing alerts when changing lanes could be unsafe.
The Volkswagen Jetta offers a sleek design and sporty performance. Its Volkswagen Car-Net system provides safety features such as automatic crash notifications and remote vehicle access, making it a tech-savvy choice for new drivers.
Discover Volkswagen Jetta insurance costs before finalizing your purchase.
11. Hyundai Kona
Starting MSRP: $24,350
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 28
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door SUV
Safety rating: 4-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep the vehicle within its lane by providing steering inputs if it detects unintended lane departure.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning: Alerts you to approaching vehicles from the sides when reversing, enhancing safety in parking situations.
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning: Monitors your blind spots and provides alerts if a vehicle is detected, aiding safer lane changes.
The Hyundai Kona is a versatile compact SUV that balances affordability with modern safety features, making it a great choice for new drivers. Its compact size offers easy maneuverability and parking, while its array of advanced safety technologies provides extra confidence on the road. The Kona’s stylish design and intuitive technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system, further contribute to its appeal for new drivers seeking both practicality and a touch of fun in their first vehicle.
Check Hyundai Kona insurance costs to stay prepared.
12. Honda CR-V
Starting MSRP: $30,100
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 31
IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2024 4-door SUV
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a preset speed and adjusts automatically to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead.
- Traffic Sign Recognition : Identifies and displays important traffic signs to keep the driver informed.
- Lane-Keeping Assist: Alerts drivers who may be veering out of their lane and can provide corrective steering input.
The Honda CR-V offers ample cargo space and a comfortable ride. The HondaLink app provides additional safety features like remote vehicle access and vehicle tracking, making it a well-rounded choice for new drivers.
Review Honda CR-V insurance costs for a comprehensive overview.
13. Subaru Crosstrek
Starting MSRP: $25,195
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 30
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Safety features:
- Subaru Starlink Safety and Security: Offers a range of connected services that can help keep you and your vehicle safe, from automatic collision notification to enhanced roadside assistance.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Helps maintain a safe distance from the car in front by automatically adjusting your speed.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential collisions and applies the brakes to help avoid or minimize impact.
The Subaru Crosstrek’s rugged design and off-road capability make it a great option for adventurous new drivers. Its Subaru Starlink Safety and Security system adds peace of mind with 24/7 assistance and emergency services.
Find out Subaru Crosstrek insurance costs to help plan ahead.
14. Toyota RAV4
Starting MSRP: $28,675
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 31
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.
- Pre-Collision Detection: Scans the road for potential obstacles and helps apply the brakes to avoid or lessen the impact of a collision.
The Toyota RAV4 offers a spacious interior and excellent fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for new drivers who need room for passengers or gear. Its standard Toyota Safety Sense suite includes a variety of driver assistance features like lane departure alerts and adaptive cruise control, which can help build confidence for new drivers. Toyota’s comprehensive warranty and maintenance coverage further enhance the vehicle’s value and reliability.
Explore Toyota RAV4 insurance costs for better coverage insights.
15. Ford Escape
Starting MSRP: $29,495
Estimated Combined MPG: Up to 39
Safety rating: 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Safety features:
- Co-Pilot 360: A suite of driver-assist technologies that help with everything from parking to lane keeping, enhancing safety on the road.
- Blind Spot Information System: Monitors your blind spots and alerts you when another vehicle is detected, helping to make lane changes safer.
- Pre-Collision Assist: Uses sensors to detect potential front-end collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to help reduce the severity of an impact.
The Ford Escape offers a comfortable and high-tech driving experience, with features like the Co-Pilot 360 suite enhancing safety and convenience for new drivers. Its high fuel efficiency and various driver assistance technologies, such as the Blind Spot Information System and Pre-Collision Assist, make it easier to navigate different driving scenarios confidently. Additionally, Ford’s available MyKey system allows you to set driving parameters to promote safer habits for new drivers.
Review Ford Escape insurance costs to stay informed.
Before We Go…
If you or your new driver are ready to find the perfect car, make sure to explore all your options. Consider adding them to your existing insurance policy to keep everyone covered.
And don’t forget—getting the right car insurance coverage is an extra layer of safety, especially for those new drivers taking their first spin on the road. Click below to get a free quote!
*https://www.iihs.org/ratings/top-safety-picks *https://www.nhtsa.gov/
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
