Best Cars for a Teenager's Auto Insurance

Although sports cars are idyllic for hopeful teenagers, they do not translate well to the realities of getting reasonably priced auto insurance.There are many new and used cars though that are fun to drive and easy on the insurance pocketbook.

Significance

Insurance companies look at teens as risks. They are new drivers who are unproven on the road. Premiums are higher than for most drivers. The type of car a teen drives might elevate her rates even more.

Considerations

Sporty vehicles with high horsepower assure an elevated premium for teen drivers. Review lists of cars that have the highest theft rates. Avoid those cars since that will also increase premiums.

Solutions

Heavier vehicles are easier to drive and control; insurance companies typically believe they are safer. Smaller cars that score well in collision and safety tests are also insurance friendly. Older cars are also less costly to insure because of the option of dropping collision and comprehensive.

New cars

New cars that will yield good insurance rates for teen drivers--and are also of good value and highly rated in safety tests--include the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, Toyota Corolla, and Subaru Impreza.

Used cars

Older used cars that are insurance affordable for teens include the Volvo S40, Lexus IS300, Chevrolet Malibu, Subaru Forester, and Ford Explorer.

Resources

• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
• Allstate Insurance