Think back to your first car moment. Wasn’t it exceptional?
Very few things in life can beat the excitement of teenagers about to drive off for the first time in their first car. As long as they have learned to drive from a pro and already applied for a driving license, we don’t see why they shouldn’t be able to make car ownership a top priority. Parents also often share in this excitement, but being older and more pragmatic they are concerned about finding the safest vehicle for their teen driver.
Well, the experts are here to help. Car brokers can take your old car and exchange it for a newer, safer model that’s just right for your teenager, in fact, they admit that ‘we buy any car’!
Some blogs recommend a list of used cars that makes it a bit easier for parents to spot the best possible deals for cars for their first-time drivers. But before we get to the list, this is what we should be looking at when buying a car for your teenager:
- Purchasing a new or used car for your teenager
- Making sure the vehicle is rated highly by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety -IIHS
- The car should have proven low fuel costs, an EPA rating of 20 mpg or more is always welcome
- Safety is a massive issue for teen drivers, that’s why it might be a good idea to invest in a vehicle with an Electronic Stability Control equipment.
There are plenty of reasons why it’s a good idea to get a car for your teenager. Let’s check out some of the cars that made the mark.
1.Renault Clio
Safe, secure to drive and cute to boot, the Clio is also quite affordable. The engines are small but a good fit for first-time drivers who are also on a budget.
Models built between 2003 and 2008 are safe and available for £300 to £1,500. The 16 valve, 1.2-liter engine will also land a respectable category seven insurance in the UK. The models built after 2008 are a lot bigger and come with standard-sized engines which might be a bit too ambitious for a teenager driving on adrenaline.
The tiny little Clio comes with a sunroof of its own, and it’s a good idea to get it weatherproofed because it is prone to leaking.
2. Fiat Panda
Once you are done laughing at its shape (that looks nothing like a panda!), you can pick up a 2009 model for less than £2000, complete with powered steering and a central locking system. This might not be the coolest car on the market, but it is a reliable workhorse that can easily beat the more stylish cars with its hardcore reliability and affordability. Another major plus is that it also has a very cheap insurance policy.
3. Peugeot 106
In the early 90s, the Peugeot model 205 was THE car for cool teenagers. The 106 is beautifully reminiscent of that era, and Peugeot stopped making it in 2004. That 2004 model is the one you’ll want to get your hands on for your teenager. Some of these 106s also have built-in powered steering, and these may cost you a little more, think upwards of £3000.
The Peugeot 106 falls in level 7 of car insurance, so if you don’t want to spend obscene amounts of money on your teenager’s car insurance, this car will help you out there as well.
The only issue with the 106 is that it can be obnoxiously loud. This is not the car anyone can use for a quiet cruise. But it’s a cool car, one that won’t embarrass your teenager.
4.Volkswagen Polo
Again, the Polo is a good looking, safe and teenager-friendly car that offers decent mileage as well. You can buy a 2007- 08 model for around £2000. But if you want something that costs even lower, but without compromising on the safety and drivability Polo is known for, why not go for an even older version? A 2001 to 2005 Volkswagen Polo will set you back some £500 and £900. This will also, of course, lower your insurance premium. The higher end, more expensive Polo will fall in category seven or above, of the insurance classification.
5.Citroen Saxo
The premium hatchback was initially manufactured in 1996. The car was only built until 2003 and discontinued after that. This means that powered steering versions of the car will be tough to come by.
VTS and VTR models of the Saxo can be seen across Britain commonly. However, these cars have built themselves a reputation for breaking down, so do get service history from the previous owner if you are planning on buying one of these. That doesn’t say so much about the car as much as it does about the owners, because Saxos were often owned by racer types, who sped on the roads and ignored resulting issues with their cars. So just be careful that you are buying a well-loved and well-kept Saxo for your teenager.
6.Nissan Micra
The Micra is no laughing stock. It is a powerful car with a reliable engine that performs well even after being driven for hundreds of miles. Your teenager will be safe in one of these.
Now, there is no denying the fact that this isn’t the fastest car on this list. But it is still a decent one, especially if you have an unruly teenager, one who is prone to speeding, at your hands. Newer Micras can be had for £11,995 and can be financed comfortably. A second -hand, older model of Micra can be bought for upwards for £500, and we reckon it’ll be right for your teenager.
The Last Word
The teenage years bring with them a longing for freedom and carefree privilege. And that’s why it is the right time for them to learn to handle responsibilities such as driving to work and school. As long as you are certain that the car you are buying them is safe and affordable, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. Buying your child a car, need not be a reckless decision as long as you have drilled into them the senses of accountability and duty.