Sixteen years pass in the blink of an eye, don’t they? That tiny baby you once cradled is now a young adult, ready to take on the world and probably eager for the freedom of driving. As they reach this milestone, often marked by a sweet sixteen or high school graduation, the question of a first car arises. If you’re a parent searching for “Good Starter Cars,” you’ve landed in the right place. We’ve done the legwork to present you with a curated list of vehicles perfect for new drivers.
When we consider good starter cars, certain criteria rise to the top. Firstly, and most importantly, safety is paramount. Every make and model we suggest was recognized for its safety features when it was new. While modern cars boast cutting-edge safety technologies, a brand-new vehicle isn’t typically what comes to mind when thinking about a starter car.
Secondly, affordability is crucial. “Affordable” can mean different things to different families, but we’ve focused on vehicles that are generally available in good condition with reasonable mileage for under $8,000.
Thirdly, a starter car should embody humility. You won’t find flashy sports cars or attention-grabbing models here. The goal is to provide reliable transportation without encouraging showboating or risky driving habits.
Finally, our list focuses on models sold between 2000 and 2010, all from mainstream brands rather than luxury marques. If our recommendations don’t quite fit your needs, remember to prioritize crash-test ratings when making your final decision. Safety should always be the non-negotiable factor.
Ford Five Hundred (2005-2006)
The Ford Five Hundred, launched in 2005, is a full-size sedan built on a robust platform originally developed by Volvo. It comes standard with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, which might be considered a bit underpowered, especially when paired with the continuously variable transmission in front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel drive versions came with a more conventional automatic transmission.
Often favored by mature drivers, you can often find well-maintained, low-mileage Ford Five Hundreds for under $7,500. While it might not be your teen’s dream car, its understated nature and safety features make it a sensible choice. When they’re financially independent, they can always trade up for that Mustang Convertible.
Ford Taurus (2008-2009)
Think of the 2008 and 2009 Ford Taurus models as refreshed and improved versions of the Five Hundred. Ford addressed the previous model’s power concerns by replacing the 3.0-liter V6 with a more potent 3.5-liter V6. The continuously variable transmission was also dropped in favor of a smoother 6-speed automatic. All-wheel drive remained available as an option.
Similar to the Five Hundred, the Taurus appealed to a more mature demographic, meaning finding low-mileage, well-kept examples is quite feasible. While prices might be slightly higher than the Five Hundred, the upgrades in performance and transmission can be worth the small premium.
Honda CR-V (2002-2004)
The second-generation Honda CR-V crossover suv is larger and more boxy than its predecessor. Beyond its increased size, this CR-V generation is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, in addition to its age-appropriate safety. One point to consider is its 3-star rollover resistance rating, which is something to be aware of.
The Honda CR-V’s reputation for longevity and widespread popularity makes it an excellent candidate for a hand-me-down vehicle, particularly if you know its maintenance history. Finding one with under 50,000 miles for under $10,000 might be challenging but not impossible, especially if you’re patient and do your research.
Honda CR-V (2007-2009)
This third-generation Honda CR-V cemented the model’s place as a top-selling compact crossover SUV for Honda. While its styling might not win any beauty contests, it excels in typical Honda fashion: lasting seemingly forever, providing good fuel economy, and prioritizing occupant safety.
Honda CR-Vs are known for holding their value exceptionally well. While you’ll find more low-mileage examples of this newer generation CR-V on the market, they will generally command a higher price compared to the previous generation.
Honda Element (2008-2010)
Honda’s uniquely boxy and functional Element shared its platform with the second-generation CR-V. Specifically, the 2008 to 2010 models stand out for safety, achieving both a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Element’s four-passenger seating capacity can be seen as a feature, limiting the number of passengers your young driver can carry. Its boxy shape maximizes practicality and cargo space. The SC trim (pictured) featured stylish aluminum wheels and body-colored bumpers, while other Elements had more utilitarian gray plastic cladding. Its unconventional looks contribute to keeping resale values reasonable, making it a potentially affordable and safe starter car.
Hyundai Santa Fe (2007-2009)
With this generation of the Hyundai Santa Fe, the company’s midsize crossover SUV transitioned from somewhat quirky styling to a more conventional and appealing design. It offered a choice of two different V6 engines, and all-wheel drive was available. A third-row seat was also an option, though it’s best suited for occasional use or smaller passengers.
The Santa Fe is known for its durability and safety and often comes at a more budget-friendly price point than comparable Honda CR-V models of the same age. We recommend considering the SE and Limited trims, but the base GLS trim is likely the most economical option for purchase and maintenance.
Mercury Montego (2005-2006)
Imagine a Ford Five Hundred, then add the signature satin silver styling cues that defined the Mercury brand before it was discontinued, and you get the Mercury Montego. It shares the same 3.0-liter V6 engine, the same Volvo-derived platform, the same optional all-wheel-drive system, and the same spacious interior as the Five Hundred.
The Montego appealed to a similar buyer demographic, but Mercury sold fewer units overall. If you come across a Montego in your used car search, it’s worth considering, and you might be in a good position to negotiate a favorable price. Sellers may be keen to find a new home for a Montego.
Mercury Sable (2008-2009)
For the 2008 model year, Mercury revitalized the Montego, bringing back the iconic Sable nameplate in the process.
The company replaced the less powerful 3.0-liter V6 with a more robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, swapped the CVT for a conventional automatic transmission, and made numerous other updates. However, even these changes couldn’t save the Mercury brand. This means you might find excellent deals on used Mercury Sables, making them a potentially smart buy for a starter car.
Subaru Forester (2001-2002)
Subaru created the Forester by essentially placing a boxy wagon body on an Impreza platform and raising the suspension for increased ground clearance. It arrived in the US market just a couple of years after the Toyota RAV4 pioneered the crossover SUV segment. In 2001, the Forester earned good crash-test ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS, and has maintained a strong safety reputation for most of its production run since.
Reliable, practical, capable in various weather conditions and terrains, and arguably not the most stylish vehicle, the first-generation Subaru Forester checks many boxes for a perfect starter car. Its understated appearance might even be a bonus in deterring teenage showing off.
Subaru Forester (2003-2008)
Subaru redesigned the Forester for the 2003 model year, though the changes were subtle at first glance. A significant addition was a new turbocharged engine option. This, combined with the Forester’s Impreza underpinnings and standard all-wheel-drive, transformed the 2.5XT model into something akin to a WRX in SUV form.
However, for a starter car, you’ll definitely want to steer clear of the turbocharged 2.5XT.
Instead, focus on the naturally aspirated Forester 2.5X. This model retains all the qualities that make the Forester an ideal starter car: safety, dependability, versatility, and good value.
