Americans love Sport Utility Vehicles, or SUVs, and there are reasons to love them, especially for new drivers. They might even be the best choice when getting a teen their first car.
Matt Jones, an auto expert based in Los Angeles, joined WBBM’s Rob Hart on the Noon Business Hour this week to discuss affordable SUV options for teens. Some of those options were even under $10,000.
Jones explained that SUVs provide safety advantages compared to other vehicles, including sedans that might sit lower to the ground. He explained that they have “greater viewpoints because, you know, the tires are a little bit bigger… the side windows are bigger, the A-pillar windows are bigger, they can just see more.”
With more visibility, new drivers can feel confident and control behind the wheel. However, Jones warned against handing over the keys of something too powerful to a teen who is still building up their driving experience. He recommends an SUV with a four-cylinder engine instead of an eight-cylinder engine.
“I’ve seen it happen too many times for first-time drivers [who] have gotten cars that have been overpowered, and they’ve been in accidents or they’ve gotten tickets or they’ve done things that have made themselves unable to drive,” Jones told Hart.
As far as affordable options go, Jones had a number of suggestions, starting with the Nissan Rogue and the Hyundai Tucson, followed by the Chevrolet Equinox. For an upmarket option, he recommended the Audi Q3.
“There are a lot of options that people can look for, but I think what we really like is not just the purchase price – that’s what catches everybody’s attention,” Jones said. “But if it’s going to be for a teen, we also have to think about the ongoing maintenance costs. What is the cost to maintain this car? What is a fuel efficiency?”
One last note before starting that search for a car: Jones suggests finding one from 2014 or later. Those models should have sensors and a camera system as part of their standard safety equipment.
