When it comes to teen drivers, there's a common misconception among parents that putting their new drivers behind the wheel of a big, ugly car is the safest thing they can do -- other than forbidding the kids to drive altogether. The opposite is true: For inexperienced drivers, good handling and automatic stability control are keys to safety. For drivers on the other end of the age spectrum, the road to a safe ride includes easy access to controls, a superior braking system and big windows for good visibility.
According to the Consumer Reports magazine, these are the
best cars for teens and seniors.
Hyundai Elantra SE is the top pick for teens and seniors. This car comes with an electronic stability control which is good for teens and seniors.
Price:
$11,775-$18,695 Mazda3The
Mazda3 looks sporty, but its safety features -- including electronic stability control on models from 2007 and up, as well as front-seat and side-curtain airbags -- make it a relatively safe bet for teens.
Price:
$13,025-$19,070 Toyota Boxy Scion xBThe boxy Scion xB received 5 (out of 5) stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for both driver's protection and rear passengers' protection in side crashes, which will help keep your teenagers protected from other teenagers on the road. Electronic stability control is available in models from 2008 and up.
Price:
$14,075-$18,360Acura TSXNew models of the
TSX include antilock brakes -- with brake assist for "panic stops," traction control, front-seat-side airbags, and full-length side-curtain airbags. Electronic stability control is available in all models from 2004 and up.
Price:
$13,275-$29,675 Honda AccordThe 2011 model of the popular
sedan just received an overall 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Electronic stability control is available in models from 2008 and up.
Price:
$17,725-$22,795 Kia OptimaThe tragic outcomes of the teens in 1950s-era car-crash songs could have been avoided if the
Optima had been around back then. The
sedan receives across-the-board 5-star crash ratings from
Motor Trend magazine.
Price:
$9,900-$20,365Honda OdysseyThe
Odyssey minivan features power sliding doors for easy access to the driver and passenger seats, along with side-curtain airbags in all three rows, making it both a safe and comfortable option for seniors. Bonus: Customers may appreciate a car named after a book that's older than they are.
Price:
$32,610Subaru Forester XT LimitedConsumer Reports gave the Forester high marks for visibility, an important option for seniors, although the magazine found the lumbar support in base models to be lacking.
Price:
$28,860Hyundai AzeraThe
Azera sedan features a power rear sunshade, adding to its relative ease of visibility. For safety, the Azera features electronic stability control, traction control and a brake-assist feature that adds extra stopping power in perceived panic situations.
Price:
$31,670Kia RondoUnlike your great uncle Harvey, the seven-seat "microvan" sports a low beltline, which means bigger windows for superior visibility. The
Rondo also features seatbelt tethers specially designed for carseats in the second and third rows, making it easier for grandparents to spend time with their grandchildren.
Price:
$20,655
