Ford For most young people and their parents, buying a first car is a significant step.
1 good solution is to look at used cars, which could frequently be had for a fraction of the price of new versions. We came up with 15 used automobiles we believe are the very best for the youthful car buyer on a budget.
To make our record, we focused on cars which are available on the market today for under $15,000. We looked for ones who are dependable, fun to drive, comfortable, attractive, economical, functional, and most of all, secure.
For security, we checked out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) moderate front Door crash test ratings for the cars we selected.
Prices are based on current prices on Autotrader.com and reflect the lowest cost we think an adequate example may cost.
2005-Present Nissan Xterra
Starting price: $8,900 and upward IIHS crash test evaluation: Good Why buy itNissan's second generation Xterra SUV hit the market in 2005 and continued that the very first generation model's theme of ruggedness, and simplicity with a concentration on an active outdoor lifestyle. The Xterra has witnessed few significant changes in the decade it's been in manufacturing and all cars are powered by a 4.0 liter version of Nissan's award-winning VQ-series V6 engine which produces 265 horsepower.
2012-Present Ford Focus
Starting price: $9,000 and up IIHS crash test evaluation: Great Why purchase itSince its beginning in 1998, the Focus has been a star performer for Ford. But for year, Ford's US and European branch sold different cars beneath the "Focus" name -- with the European version much better received. For 2012, the third generation Ford unified the model and gave the US Focus customers the European automobile they'd been waiting for. Power for Emphasis comes from a 2.0 liter 160 horsepower inline four cylinder engine. Individuals looking for higher performance can opt for the critically acclaimed 252 hp Focus ST -- although even used examples of the model might be pricey.
2002-Present Honda CR-V
Starting price: $7,500 and up IIHS crash test evaluation: Good Why purchase it: Since its launch in 1997, the Honda CR-V has been one of the most popular selling mini-SUV's on earth. The CR-V provides an incredible blend of market, utility and Honda's unbeatable track record for reliability. Though some may find the CR-V's little four-cylinder engine to be a tad underpowered, it's more than okay for most daily commutes. Honda has also included a host of fun features such as a collapsible center console and an in-car picnic table. The CR-V has retained its own value remarkably well, so locating a well-preserved example might expect a cost premium.
2011-Present Volkswagen Jetta TDI $13,500
Starting price: $12,500 and up IIHS crash test rating: Good Why buy itThe sixth generation Volkswagen Jetta offers buyers a pleasure European sports compact sedan with a decidedly upmarket feel. For the value-minded customer, the diesel TDI engine alternative provides great selection and fuel economy in a powerful package. However, just like any technologically innovative European sedan, take time to search for a well preserved lower mileage case, as out-of-warranty repairs for your automobile may become pricey.
2006-2015 Mazda MX5 Miata
Starting price: $12,500 and up IIHS crash test rating: N/A Why purchase it: When the first 1990 Mazda Miata showed up on the scene, the sporty little roadster all but stored the section from extinction. With the third generation (currently known as the MX-5), the 2006 Miata nevertheless gave its owners a fun and thrilling drive, but with all of the creature comforts expected in a modern sports car. Power for the MX-5 comes out of a peppy 2.0-liter 170 horsepower inline four cylinder engine driving the rear wheels in conventional roadster fashion.
2002-2007 Toyota Highlander
Starting price: $7,000 and up IIHS crash test rating: Good Why buy itThe Toyota Highlander is perfect for the driver looking for a solid crossover SUV. While it does not have the off-road capabilities of the Tacoma pickup, the Highlander's four-wheel drive system offers solid bad weather performance and provides drivers a reassuring sense of solidity. Sharing a platform with the pricier Lexus RX, the Highlander maintains the interior build quality seen in its premium cousin. Environmentally conscious buyers can opt for the Highlander Hybrid. However, consumers are led into unfamiliar territory as aging hybrids and hybrid drive components may lead to expensive repair bills.
