Top 10 New Car Choices for First-Time Buyers (PDF)
New drivers shouldn’t worry about whether their first car is unsafe, in need of constant repairs, or carries higher payments and insurance costs than a modest salary would otherwise cover.
It is fortunate that there are so many choices among small cars and SUVs on the market that can be especially appealing to first-time buyers. We have selected 10 new subcompact and compact cars and SUVs that are among the safest and sanest to drive for young drivers.
Most of our top models in this category start at around $25,000 or less, and they have earned long-term predicted reliability ratings of 80 or higher (out of 100) from J.D. Power owner surveys.
1. 2022 Hyundai Elantra | $20,200
A handsomely styled compact sedan with several key safety features, the Hyundai Elantra comes with an easy-to-use infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless connectivity. In terms of interior space and cargo space, the cabin is well-designed.
2. 2022 Toyota Corolla | $20,175
In addition to the 139-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, it comes standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission. While the two top trims are a bit livelier with a 2.0-liter four, they don’t turn this Toyota into a barn burner. It rides and handles well enough for most drivers.
3. 2022 Nissan Versa | $15,180
The Versa is decently finished inside, rides comfortably, and even though it comes with very few driver-assistance features, it does come with forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and forward automatic emergency braking.
4. 2022 Subaru Forester | $25,395
In terms of compact SUVs, the Subaru Forester offers a spacious cabin, spacious cargo space, and standard all-wheel drive. With its higher ground clearance, it can handle some modest off-road trails, with the Wilderness trim providing the best off-road performance.
5. 2022 Buick Encore GX | $24,400
In terms of our recommendations for first-time buyers, the Buick Encore GX SUV is as close to a luxury model as it gets. With its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and plenty of cargo space, it’s sourced from South Korea and can accommodate taller riders.
6. 2022 Honda Civic | $22,350
Featuring a bold exterior design and an attractively cast and upscale-finished interior, the top-rated Honda Civic is an easy choice among compact sedans and hatchbacks.
7. 2022 Hyundai Tucson | $25,800
The compact Hyundai Tucson crossover SUV is redesigned for 2022 with dynamic new styling, a classy cabin with plenty of upscale elements, and a wide range of cargo space.
8. 2022 Hyundai Kona | $21,300
We consider the Hyundai Kona crossover SUV to be one of our top-ranked models for 2022. Starting at an affordable price, it looks great inside and out. The infotainment system comes with wireless versions of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone interfaces, making it easy to master.
9. 2022 Kia Sportage | $24,090
With ample space in both the front and rear, the Kia Sportage crossover SUV is exceptionally spacious for its size. The cabin is nicely designed and furnished with high-quality materials to give it a more refined appearance.
10. 2022 Honda CR-V | $26,400
This Honda gets excellent fuel economy for its class, and its turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 190 horsepower through a continuously variable automatic transmission.
