Top Picks for New Drivers: Consumer Reports' Best Cars of 2021

Discover the top rated cars for new drivers according to Consumer Reports. Check out our list for safety, reliability and affordability.

Choosing the right car for a new driver can be an overwhelming task. With so many options available in the market, it's hard to determine which one is worth the investment. Luckily, Consumer Reports has released its list of the best cars for new drivers, and it's worth taking a closer look. From safety features to fuel efficiency and affordability, these vehicles have everything a young driver needs to feel confident behind the wheel. So, whether you're a parent looking for a reliable car for your teenager or a young adult starting your driving journey, this list will help you make an informed decision.

Introduction

Consumer Reports is a trusted and reputable source for unbiased reviews and ratings of various consumer products, including cars. For new drivers, choosing the right car can be daunting, especially with numerous options available in the market. However, Consumer Reports has listed some of the best cars for new drivers, considering factors like safety, reliability, and affordability.

Safety Features

One of the crucial factors to consider when choosing a car for a new driver is safety. The car should have advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help prevent accidents and improve driving confidence, especially for new drivers.

Reliability

The last thing a new driver wants is to spend time and money on frequent repairs. Therefore, buying a reliable car is essential. Consumer Reports considers the car's reliability rating based on surveys and tests to ensure that it's not prone to breakdowns or mechanical issues.

Affordability

New drivers are often on a tight budget, and buying a car can be expensive. Therefore, Consumer Reports considers the car's price and value for money. Some of the best cars for new drivers are affordable and have low maintenance costs.

Best Cars for New Drivers

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is a popular choice for new drivers because of its reliability, affordability, and safety features. It has a five-star safety rating, making it one of the safest cars in its class. Additionally, it has a spacious interior, comfortable seats, and a smooth ride, making it ideal for daily commuting.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is another popular car among new drivers because of its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has a spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and high-tech features like touch screen infotainment system, rearview camera, and lane departure warning. Additionally, it has a five-star safety rating, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is an all-wheel-drive car that provides excellent handling and traction, making it ideal for driving in any weather condition. It has a spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and high-tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, making it ideal for tech-savvy drivers. Additionally, it has a five-star safety rating, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a stylish and sporty car that offers a fun-to-drive experience. It has a refined interior with comfortable seats, high-tech features, and advanced safety features like rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additionally, it has a four-star safety rating, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is an affordable and reliable car that offers excellent value for money. It has a spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and high-tech features like touch screen infotainment system, rearview camera, and lane departure warning. Additionally, it has a four-star safety rating, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car for a new driver can be overwhelming, but Consumer Reports has made it easier by recommending some of the best cars for new drivers based on safety, reliability, and affordability. These cars provide excellent value for money, are reliable, and have advanced safety features, making them ideal for new drivers.

Introduction

Consumer Reports' annual list of the best cars for new drivers is a valuable resource for those in search of a reliable and safe vehicle. The list comprises a range of affordable options that are easy to handle and offer advanced safety features. In this article, we will delve into the methodology used by Consumer Reports to evaluate the cars on the list, as well as highlight some of the top options.

Methodology

Consumer Reports' evaluation process takes into account several important factors when choosing the best cars for new drivers. These include reliability, safety, owner satisfaction, and affordability. Additionally, expert reviews and test drives are also considered to provide a comprehensive assessment of each vehicle. By using these criteria, Consumer Reports ensures that the cars on the list meet the needs of new drivers and provide a safe and reliable driving experience.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic tops the list of the best cars for new drivers with its combination of reliability, fuel economy, and affordability. With a starting price of around $20,000, it offers an impressive range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system and advanced safety technology. The Civic's reputation for dependability and low maintenance costs make it an ideal choice for new drivers who want a car that will last them for years to come.

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is another affordable and dependable option that comes in at number two on the list. With a starting price of around $19,000, it offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample legroom for both driver and passengers. The Corolla's advanced safety features, including lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, make it an excellent choice for new drivers who prioritize safety.

Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a stylish and sporty option that offers impressive handling and fuel economy. With a starting price of around $21,000, it is slightly more expensive than some of the other cars on the list, but it offers a range of advanced features, including adaptive cruise control and a premium Bose sound system. The Mazda3's modern design and fun-to-drive nature make it an excellent choice for new drivers who want a car that looks and feels great.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is a versatile and practical option for new drivers, with both sedan and hatchback models available. Its standard all-wheel drive provides added traction and stability in inclement weather, and its spacious interior and good fuel economy make it a great choice for long road trips. With a starting price of around $19,000, the Impreza is an excellent value for new drivers who want a reliable and safe car.

Kia Forte

The Kia Forte is another affordable option that offers a range of features typically found on more expensive cars. With a starting price of around $18,000, it comes with a user-friendly infotainment system and advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Forte's comfortable and spacious cabin makes it an excellent choice for new drivers who want a car that can accommodate their daily needs.

Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra is a safe and dependable option that offers excellent fuel economy and a spacious interior. With a starting price of around $20,000, it comes with a range of advanced features, including adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. The Elantra's reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs make it an ideal choice for new drivers who want a car that won't break the bank.

Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra is a reliable and affordable option that offers a roomy and comfortable interior. With a starting price of around $20,000, it comes with a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert. The Sentra's excellent fuel economy and low maintenance costs make it an excellent choice for new drivers who want a car that is both reliable and cost-effective.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car for a new driver can be a challenging task, but Consumer Reports' list of the best cars for new drivers provides a valuable starting point. By considering factors such as reliability, safety, and affordability, new drivers can find a car that meets their needs and provides a safe and enjoyable driving experience. Whether you choose the Honda Civic or the Nissan Sentra, you can rest assured that you are getting a high-quality vehicle that will serve you well for years to come.

Consumer Reports, a non-profit organization that tests and rates consumer products, including cars, recently released their list of the Best Cars for New Drivers. As a seasoned driver, I found their findings to be insightful and beneficial for those who are just starting out on the road.

Here are some of my observations on Consumer Reports' Best Cars for New Drivers:

Pros of Consumer Reports' Best Cars for New Drivers

1. Safety Features: Safety is a top priority for new drivers, and the cars on this list have excellent safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features provide an added layer of protection for new drivers who may not have as much experience behind the wheel.
2. Reliability: The cars on this list have been tested for their reliability, which is crucial for new drivers who may not have the knowledge or resources to handle unexpected breakdowns or repairs. Reliability gives new drivers peace of mind and helps them build trust in their vehicles.
3. Affordability: Many of the cars on this list are affordable, making them accessible to new drivers who may not have a lot of money to spend on a car. Affordability also means that new drivers can focus on building their driving skills rather than worrying about paying off a car loan.
4. Fuel Efficiency: With rising gas prices, fuel efficiency is an important factor for new drivers. The cars on this list have been tested for their fuel efficiency, which can save new drivers money in the long run.

Cons of Consumer Reports' Best Cars for New Drivers

• Size: Some of the cars on this list are small, which may not be ideal for families or for those who need more cargo space. However, for new drivers who are primarily driving alone or with one passenger, a smaller car can be easier to handle and maneuver.
• Performance: Some of the cars on this list may not have the most powerful engines or the most advanced technology. However, for new drivers who are still building their confidence on the road, a car that is easy to handle and has basic features can be more practical and less overwhelming.
• Style: While some of the cars on this list have a sleek and modern design, others may be more plain or utilitarian. However, for new drivers who are focused on function over form, a car that is reliable and safe can be more important than its appearance.

Overall, Consumer Reports' Best Cars for New Drivers provides valuable information for those who are looking for a safe, reliable, and affordable car. As new drivers navigate the challenges of the road, having a car that meets their needs can make all the difference in their driving experience.

In conclusion, Consumer Reports' list of the best cars for new drivers offers valuable insights for those who are looking to purchase their first car. By analyzing the safety features, reliability, and affordability of different models, the report provides a comprehensive overview that can help young drivers make informed decisions.One important takeaway from the report is the importance of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning systems. These features can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, particularly for inexperienced drivers who may be more prone to distractions and lapses in attention. Additionally, the report highlights the importance of reliability and cost-effectiveness, as young drivers often have limited budgets and may not have the resources to deal with frequent repairs or high insurance premiums.Overall, the Consumer Reports list serves as a useful guide for new drivers who are navigating the complex world of car ownership. By considering factors like safety, reliability, and affordability, young drivers can find a car that meets their needs and provides peace of mind on the road. As always, it is important to do your own research and consult with trusted experts before making any major purchase, but this report can be a valuable starting point for those who are just getting started.

People also ask about Consumer Reports Best Cars For New Drivers:

1. What criteria does Consumer Reports use to determine the best cars for new drivers?
• Consumer Reports evaluates a car's crash-test results, reliability, and safety features to determine the best cars for new drivers.
2. Are all of the recommended cars affordable for new drivers?
• Yes, Consumer Reports recommends cars that are affordable and have a good value for their price.
3. Does Consumer Reports only recommend new cars?
• No, Consumer Reports also recommends used cars that are reliable and safe for new drivers.
4. What types of cars are typically recommended for new drivers?
• Consumer Reports typically recommends small or midsize sedans or hatchbacks that have good fuel economy and safety features.
5. Why is it important for new drivers to have a reliable and safe car?
• New drivers are typically less experienced and more likely to get into accidents. Having a reliable and safe car can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

In summary, Consumer Reports evaluates a car's crash-test results, reliability, and safety features to determine the best cars for new drivers. They recommend cars that are affordable and have a good value for their price, including both new and used cars. Typically, small or midsize sedans or hatchbacks with good fuel economy and safety features are recommended. It is important for new drivers to have a reliable and safe car to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.