Best Used Cars For First Time Drivers In 2018

Ford For most young people and their parents, buying a first car is a major step.
One good solution is to look at cars that are used, which can frequently be had for a fraction of the cost of brand-new versions. We came up with 15 used automobiles we think are the very best for the youthful car buyer on a budget.
To make our list, we focused on cars that are on the market right now for under $15,000. We looked for people that are dependable, fun to drive, comfortable, appealing, economical, functional, and most of all, safe.
For security, we checked out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) average front Door crash test ratings for the automobiles we picked.
Prices are based on present prices on Autotrader.com and reflect the lowest price we think an adequate example may cost.

2006-Present Honda Fit

Starting price: $7,000 and up IIHS crash test rating: Great Why buy it: The Honda Fit was an unqualified success throughout the globe for the automaker. The Fit provides fun, versatility, and reliability in a compact package. Although the Fit premiered in other areas of the world in 2001, the model didn't make it to the US until 2006. The earliest used cases of this automobile represent the tail end of the first generation version, which was replaced with a second production in 2009. Both generations of this match are powered by Honda's trusty 1.5-liter inline lookup engine generating 109 horsepower at the gen 1 model and 117 from the gen 2 automobiles.

2011-Present Volkswagen Jetta TDI $13,500

Starting price: $12,500 and up IIHS crash test rating: Great Why buy itThe sixth generation Volkswagen Jetta offers buyers a pleasure European sport compact sedan with a decidedly upmarket feel. For the value-minded customer, the diesel TDI engine option offers great range and fuel economy in a potent package. However, just like any technologically advanced European sedan, take time to search for a well maintained lower mileage case, as out-of-warranty repairs to the automobile may become pricey.

2005-2012 Acura RL

Starting price: $14,500 and up IIHS crash test evaluation: Great Why buy itThe Acura RL was Honda's flagship model and is the most expensive car on the list. When fresh, the RL retailed for around $50,000, but used examples can be found for far less. As Honda's flagship, the firm unloaded its technological goody bag for the RL. Top of the line models include onboard navigation, a premium sound system, active sound cancellation, a titanium drive-shaft, handcrafted walnut wood beams, and a slew of modern security features. The Rl's innovative "super handling" all-wheel-drive system and strong 300 horsepower V-6 gives the car a really premium driving experience.

2006-2015 Mazda MX5 Miata

Starting price: $12,500 and up IIHS crash test evaluation: N/A Why purchase it: When the original 1990 Mazda Miata showed on the spectacle, the sporty little roadster all but stored the segment from extinction. With the next generation (currently called the MX-5), the 2006 Miata still gave its owners a fun and thrilling drive, but with all of the creature comforts expected in a modern sports car. Power for your MX-5 comes from a peppy 2.0-liter 170 horsepower inline four cylinder engine driving the rear wheels in traditional roadster fashion.