Buying a first car is a big milestone, especially for young drivers who have spent years dreaming about the freedom that comes with having their own set of wheels. Most teens want something stylish, enjoyable to drive, and maybe even a little quick. Parents, however, usually have a different priority list, with safety and affordability sitting right at the top.
That is where the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports come in. Together, they publish a list of used vehicles that combine strong safety ratings with reasonable prices. For this ranking, the focus is on the cheapest models in the “Best Choices” category, using Black Book median retail prices from April 2026, rounded to the nearest $100.
Nissan Maxima
The 2020 to 2023 Nissan Maxima takes the fifth spot, with a median price of around $15,200. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, helped by strong crash protection and highly rated crash prevention systems.
The Maxima also brings a bit more character than a typical family sedan. With a 3.5 liter V6 producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, it offers enough performance to appeal to young enthusiasts while still delivering the safety credentials parents want.
Mazda CX-3 And Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid
Sharing fourth place are the 2020 to 2021 Mazda CX-3 and the 2019 to 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid, each with a median price of about $13,600.
The Mazda CX-3 may be small, but it delivers sharp handling, practical hatchback versatility, and strong safety scores. The Subaru Crosstrek PHEV adds a more adventurous personality, thanks to standard Symmetrical AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and up to 17 miles of electric-only driving.
Mazda3 And Mazda CX-5
Mazda dominates the top of the list. The 2018 to 2025 Mazda CX-5 is the cheapest model in the “Best Choices” group, with an average price of $13,100, while the 2019 to 2025 Mazda3 follows closely at $13,200.
Both models combine solid safety ratings with a more engaging driving feel than many rivals. They were also offered with optional turbocharged engines, giving young drivers a safer way to enjoy something with a bit of personality. The CX-5 gained an important safety improvement after its 2023 refresh, so newer examples are worth considering for buyers who want the strongest crash test performance.
For teen drivers, these choices prove that a safe first car does not have to be boring. With models like the Mazda3, CX-5, Maxima, CX-3, and Crosstrek PHEV, it is possible to find something affordable, secure, and genuinely enjoyable to drive.
