Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has the compact design that every parent thinks their child wants, the tame yet reliable engine options of a 2.0-liter gas engine or 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-banger, and the angelic attitude that will keep their child out of trouble. But that only applies to the Honda Civic Sedan.
What’s even better is an EPA-rated 40 mpg highway and 28 mpg in the city. The Honda Civic (sedan, of course) has the safety features parents want to keep their child safe, much like a bubble.
Hyundai Elantra
If the parents are buying, they get to pick the car. When budget is a major factor, the Hyundai Elantra is a top contender. A two-door hatch or sedan can be found for under $15k, equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 137 horsepower. Sorry, kids. If you want a more powerful car, you should’ve started saving your weekly allowance when you were 8.
That said, the Elantra is a decent car for the money. It’s reliable, extremely good on gas at 37 mpg highway, and has a good power equipment package. Kids, it has a radio. Just be happy it has one.
Chevrolet Spark
If you’re paying for a parking spot in square footage, pick the Chevrolet Spark. It’s tiny on the outside, yet the interior is surprisingly spacious.
What’s also tiny is the engine bay, holding a 1.4-liter Ecotec engine that spits out just 98 horsepower. If you’re concerned about Junior racing his student car, you can erase that worry with the Chevy Spark. Easily one of the best cars for teens, and one of the most fuel efficient cars.
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