Protecting teen drivers’ safety is a top priority for parents and guardians. With advances in automotive technology, today’s cars are safer than ever, equipped with features designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants.
This post will explore the top five safest car models for teen drivers in 2024, highlighting their key safety features and additional benefits.
1. Toyota Corolla
Why It’s Safe:
The Toyota Corolla has long been a favourite for its reliability and value, but its safety features make it an excellent choice for teen drivers. The 2024 Corolla is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, pre-collision systems with pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This system adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead.
- Lane Departure Alert: Alerts the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane.
- Pre-Collision System: Detects potential collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if necessary.
Additional Features:
- Crash-Test Ratings: The Corolla consistently receives top marks from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), earning a high safety rating.
- Fuel Efficiency: With a fuel-efficient engine, the Corolla is economical to run, which is a bonus for young drivers on a budget.
- Reliability: Known for its long-term durability, the Corolla offers peace of mind for parents and new drivers alike.
2. Honda Civic
Why It’s Safe:
The Honda Civic stands out with its advanced safety features and sporty design. The 2024 model includes Honda Sensing, a suite of safety technologies that encompass adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking system, and road departure mitigation.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: Helps bring the car to a stop if an unavoidable collision is detected.
- Road Departure Mitigation: Alerts the driver when the car is about to leave the road and can provide steering assistance to stay in the lane.
Additional Features:
- Crash-Test Ratings: The Civic earns high safety ratings thanks to its robust safety systems and solid build.
- Interior Space: The Civic offers a roomy interior with comfortable seating and ample cargo space, making it practical for everyday use.
- Performance: Despite its safety focus, the Civic doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers a balanced ride with responsive handling, making it enjoyable for young drivers.
3. Mazda 3
Why It’s Safe:
The Mazda 3 combines a sleek design with comprehensive safety features. It comes standard with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot during lane changes.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Helps detect approaching vehicles when reversing out of parking spaces.
Additional Features:
- Crash-Test Ratings: The Mazda 3 has received top safety ratings from Euro NCAP, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.
- Driving Experience: Known for its sporty handling and upscale interior, the Mazda 3 offers a premium driving experience without sacrificing safety.
- Technology: The Mazda 3 includes advanced infotainment options, ensuring that young drivers stay connected and entertained safely.
4. Subaru Crosstrek
Why It’s Safe:
The Subaru Crosstrek is designed with safety in mind, featuring the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane centring, pre-collision braking, and lane departure and sway warning. The 2024 model also introduces automatic emergency steering to help avoid collisions.
- Automatic Emergency Steering: Helps the driver avoid potential collisions by providing automatic steering assistance.
- Pre-Collision Braking: Applies full braking force in emergency situations to avoid or mitigate a collision.
Additional Features:
- All-Wheel Drive: Standard all-wheel drive provides better traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
- Off-Road Capability: The Crosstrek’s higher ground clearance and off-road capability make it versatile for various driving conditions, adding an extra layer of safety for adventurous teens.
- Practicality: With a spacious interior and excellent cargo capacity, the Crosstrek is practical for daily use and road trips alike.
5. Hyundai Kona
Why It’s Safe:
The Hyundai Kona features a host of safety technologies, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning, and blind-spot collision warning. These features work together to provide a comprehensive safety net for young drivers.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Detects an imminent collision and applies the brakes to prevent or lessen the impact.
- Driver Attention Warning: Monitors driver behaviour and provides alerts if signs of drowsiness or inattentiveness are detected.
Additional Features:
- Modern Design: The Kona’s stylish design and modern interior make it appealing to young drivers.
- Fuel Efficiency: With competitive fuel economy, the Kona is cost-effective to drive.
- Technology: The Kona includes user-friendly tech features such as a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring that drivers stay connected without distractions.
Conclusion
Selecting a safe vehicle for a teen driver involves balancing advanced safety features, reliability, and ease of use. The Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Subaru Crosstrek, and Hyundai Kona stand out as the top choices for 2024, each offering a unique combination of these attributes. By choosing any of these models, parents can ensure their teens are well-protected on the road, providing peace of mind for the whole family.
Toyota Corolla:
- Known for its comprehensive safety suite, reliability, and fuel efficiency, making it a well-rounded choice for teens.
Honda Civic:
- Combines advanced safety features with sporty design and performance, offering both safety and driving enjoyment.
Mazda 3:
- Offers a premium driving experience with robust safety features, ensuring both safety and style.
Subaru Crosstrek:
- It features standard all-wheel drive and off-road capabilities, along with advanced safety technology, which is ideal for versatile driving conditions.
Hyundai Kona:
- Provides modern design and technology with essential safety features, making it an attractive and safe option for young drivers.
For more detailed information, visit the official websites of UK safety and automotive organisations such as the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Additionally, automotive review platforms like What Car?, Auto Express and Honest John provide in-depth reviews and safety ratings to help you make an informed decision. These resources offer comprehensive insights into vehicle safety, performance, and reliability, ensuring you choose the best car for your teen driver.
