1. Honda Civic

The Civic remains the default answer for first-car shoppers, and for good reason. It’s bulletproof, reliable, holds its value, gets excellent fuel economy, and won’t embarrass anyone in the school parking lot. Find a used one from the past five years, and you’re golden.

2. Toyota Corolla

Even more reliable than the Civic (if that’s possible), the Corolla is transportation in its purest form. Newer models look surprisingly good, and the hybrid gets over 50 mpg. It’s boring, but boring beats broken-down.

3. Mazda3

The fun choice in this segment. The Mazda3 drives better than anything else here and looks sharp inside and out. Slightly pricier than a Civic or Corolla, but worth it if driving enjoyment matters.

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4. Ford Fiesta

Although Ford killed the Fiesta after 2019, used ones are dirt cheap and surprisingly fun. The manual transmission is a joy. Just avoid the notoriously problematic dual-clutch automatic.

5. Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai’s warranty (5-year/60,000-mile basic, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain) makes this a smart pick for parents. The current generation looks genuinely stylish, and it’s loaded with standard features.

6. Kia Forte

The Elantra’s twin under the skin, with the same killer warranty. Gets the same recommendation for the same reasons. Shop both and buy whichever dealer gives you a better deal.

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7. Subaru Impreza

Standard all-wheel drive makes this the smart choice in snow country. It’s not particularly quick or sexy, but it’s practical and safe. The hatchback version adds cargo versatility.

8. Nissan Sentra

The Sentra recently underwent a complete redesign and finally looks like something people might actually want. It’s comfortable, spacious, and competitively priced, though not as engaging to drive as the Mazda3.

9. Volkswagen Jetta

A solid European alternative with a surprisingly nice interior for the money. Reliability has improved dramatically from VW’s sketchy past, but maintenance costs can still run higher than Japanese competitors.

10. Chevrolet Spark

(Note: Discontinued after 2022) Chevy’s exit from the subcompact game means good deals on used Sparks. It’s tiny, cheerful, and perfect for parking-challenged city driving. Just don’t expect highway heroics.

11. Toyota Yaris

(Note: Discontinued after 2020) Another discontinued model that makes for a smart used buy. Ultra-reliable and dirt simple. The hatchback (Yaris iA/Mazda2 sedan) is the better choice.

12. Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V is a solid choice for teenagers looking for a first car. Honda’s smallest crossover offers Civic-like reliability in a more practical package. Clever rear seat design creates impressive cargo space. Not quick, but competent and efficient.

13. Chevrolet Malibu

(Note: Discontinued after 2024). The Chevrolet Malibu is a solid choice for teenagers looking for a reliable ride. A competent midsize sedan that never quite matched the Accord or Camry. Used ones are good values, especially with the efficient turbo four-cylinder.

14. Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a stylish choice for teenagers looking for their first car. Sharp-looking, well-equipped, and backed by that Hyundai warranty. The base engine is adequate; the optional turbo is genuinely quick. Available as an EV if you’ve got the budget and charging access.

15. Kia Soul

Boxy styling isn’t for everyone, but you can’t argue with the practicality. Tons of interior space, easy visibility, and simple to park. The hamster commercials are long gone, but the value remains.

16. Mazda CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 is one of those beautiful cars that catch your eye right away. Mazda’s small crossover prioritizes style and driving dynamics over maximum cargo space. It’s basically a lifted Mazda3 hatchback, which means it’s the most fun to drive in this category.

17. Nissan Versa

The cheapest new car you can buy in America. It’s basic transportation, but competent, with decent fuel economy and a surprisingly roomy back seat. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, and it boasts impressive fuel efficiency, making it perfect for daily commutes or weekend adventures. Plus, with its modern design, it fits right in among pretty cars and classic cars, making it a stylish option for young drivers.

18. Ford Focus

(Note: Discontinued after 2018). The Ford Focus is a solid choice for teenagers looking for an affordable ride. Dead in the U.S., but plentifully used. The regular models are fine; the turbocharged ST is too tempting. Like the Fiesta, avoid the dual-clutch automatic.

19. Subaru Crosstrek

With its rugged design and practical features, the lifted Impreza offers more ground clearance and a tougher look. Standard AWD and good safety scores make it popular with parents. It’s slow, but steady and capable, making it a great option for your first set of wheels.

20. Toyota Prius

Teenagers looking for an affordable car can go with the Toyota Prius. The OG hybrid is still the fuel economy king. Yes, it looks weird. No, teenagers probably won’t think it’s cool. But 50+ mpg combined is hard to argue with, and reliability is legendary.

21. Chevrolet Trax

The Chevrolet Trax offers a blend of affordability and style, making it one of the prettiest cars on the market. Cheap and cheerful, but pretty dated at this point. Does the basic crossover thing without excelling at anything. Fine as budget transportation.

22. Kia Rio

The Kia Rio is another budget champion that punches above its weight class. It’s simple, reliable, and comes with Kia’s excellent warranty. The hatchback version is more practical than the sedan.

23. Honda Accord

If you can stretch the budget, a used Accord is one of the best values out there. Roomy, comfortable, reliable, and available with peppy turbocharged engines. The V6 models are genuinely quick.

24. Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is a popular choice for teenagers looking for a reliable ride. It’s called the thinking person’s compact hatchback for a reason. Refined, practical, and fun to drive. The GTI version is too tempting for teenage drivers, so stick with the regular Golf.