Top 10 Best First Cars for Car Guys Under $20K in 2024

Speed, reliability, and style are all essential things to look for in the best first cars for car fans under $20,000. Teens and young adults are looking for their first car. They want something fast, with high-tech features, and fun to drive. The group has reliable sedans and quick hatchbacks.

They are cheap cars that new drivers can afford. The vehicles will fit their budget and get them excited about driving. These top picks are great for any car fanatic. They’re ready to hit the road. They like the speed of a turbocharged engine and the sleek interior look.

10 Best First Cars for Teenage Guys Under $20,000

Teenage guy’s can find it exciting and scary to choose their first car. Style, dependability, cost, and safety are all important factors in the decision-making process. Here are the 10 best first cars for young guys. They strike a good mix of these factors.

#1. Toyota Highlander (Price: $17,800)

• Model: 2016
• Engine: 3.5 L Gas/Electric V6
• Horsepower: 280 hp
• Transmission: 1-Speed CVT
• Torque: 215 lb-ft
• Drive Type: AWD
• Safety score: 5 stars

This car is safe, stable, and calm; your teenage kid will love it. The safety of this midsize SUV is something else that makes it stand out. Tech-savvy kids who drive Toyotas can stay safe on the road with Safety Sense. The Highlander has lots of space. It also has a new entertainment system. It lets you have fun and stay in touch. Teenagers enjoy riding in the Toyota Highlander. It’s precious and gets excellent gas mileage. Get a Toyota Highlander if you are a young person who wants to drive. It is safe and valuable. It’s great for weekend or weekday trips.

#2. Kia Sportage (Price: $17,000)

• Model: 2017
• Horsepower: 187 hp
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Torque: 178 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 125 mph
• Drive Type: FWD or AWD
• Safety score: 5 stars

The Kia Sportage beckons young drivers with its blend of style and smarts. This small SUV has cutting-edge safety features. They include lane assist and crash prevention. They appeal to both teens and parents. Its sleek design turns heads, while impressive fuel economy stretches every dollar. The Sportage is suitable for daily commutes or weekend getaways. It offers easy access and maneuverability. New drivers value easy-to-use technology and high safety scores. The Kia Sportage is for teens. They want a vehicle that’s cool and practical. It delivers on all fronts.

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#3. Hyundai Santa Fe (Price: $17,800)

• Model: 2017-2019
• Horsepower: 290 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Torque: 252 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 130 mph
• Drive Type: FWD or AWD
• Safety score: 5 stars

“Teenagers want their first car to look good and be useful. Get ready for the Hyundai Santa Fe. There is new safety gear in this SUV, and it looks great. It has emergency brakes that work on their own and help you stay in your lane. Being sure that their teen drivers are safe gives parents peace of mind. There’s a lot of space inside, so it’s great for trips or school runs. It doesn’t cost much and goes fast. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tech-savvy teens can stay linked while they drive. If you want a smart, stylish, and useful car, the Hyundai Santa Fe is the only one you need.”

#4. Subaru Crosstrek (Price: $19,900)

• Model: 2018 or newer
• Horsepower: 152 hp
• Transmission: CVT or 6-speed manual
• Torque: 145 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 130 mph
• Drive Type: AWD
• Safety Score: 5 stars

They are seeking a first car that’s reliable, versatile, and chic. Look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek. This small SUV has incredible all-wheel drive. It ensures smooth, safe journeys in any weather. Spacious interiors accommodate daily commutes and weekend getaways alike. The car has cutting-edge safety features. These include EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. They offer peace of mind and could save you money. With impressive fuel efficiency, the Crosstrek combines style and speed. Discover why this attractive, swift vehicle is the ultimate choice for new drivers.

#5. Toyota Corolla (Price: $18,700)

• Model: 2018 or newer
• Horsepower: 139 hp
• Transmission: CVT – 6-Speed Manual
• Torque: 126 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 120 mph
• Drive Type: FWD
• Safety Score: 5 Stars

The Toyota Corolla car is both stylish and reliable. It’s great for teen drivers. This small car is a good choice for parents on a budget. It gets excellent gas mileage and doesn’t cost much to maintain. Peace of mind comes from high-tech safety features—young people like how sleek it looks. You can use it to get to and from school or for weekend trips. The Corolla hatchback is both valuable and safe. Parental choice is a good one. The car is reliable and affordable. But people still look at it funny on the road. This car looks good in every way. It’s an excellent choice for young drivers getting their first car.

#6. Mazda CX-5 (Price: $10,200)

• Model: 2014 or newer
• Horsepower: 155-187 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
• Torque: 150 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 130 mph
• Drive Type: FWD or AWD
• Safety Score: 5 Stars

Its smooth lines and sleek forms stand out in the SUV market. This eye-catcher is an excellent example of Mazda’s CX-5 design philosophy. It says that form and function should work together. The SKYACTIV technology in its engine makes it quick and good on gas. It has modern safety features and entertainment systems that are easy to use. The interior is very spacious. You can drive the CX-5 in both towns and the countryside. Fun and valuable things are both present in a reasonable amount. This car looks good and works well for SUV fans. It works well for many kinds of drives.

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#7. Nissan Rogue (Price: $11,000)

• Model: 2014 or 2020
• Horsepower: 170-181 hp
• Transmission: CVT
• Torque: 175-181 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 125-130 mph
• Drive Type: FWD or AWD
• Safety Score: 5 Stars

It stands out because of how stylish, easy, and up-to-date it is. There are many little SUVs out there. I like the way the Rogue looks. It’s a big, fun car to drive. It gets excellent gas mileage. This product has two top safety features. They are ProPILOT Assist. They are also Nissan Safety Shield 360. You can pick this if you have a family or drive to work every day. The 2024 model also has better ways to connect, like a bigger screen and a phone that is easy to use. People who want a stable and big SUV should still get this one. The price appears low to me as well.

#8. Volkswagen Jetta (Price: $10,900)

• Model: 2016
• Horsepower: 150 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
• Torque: 184 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 125 mph
• Drive Type: FWD
• Safety Score: 5 Stars

The Volkswagen Jetta is an excellent car for teenagers because it is safe, cheap, and stylish. The Jetta has robust safety features, like advanced driver aid systems. They give parents and young drivers peace of mind. You can save money on the car because it doesn’t use much gas or cost much to keep up. Younger people like it because it looks cool and has new technology. Every day, the Volkswagen Jetta is a safe and fun car for kids and their families to drive. It’s great for going to work or on a weekend trip.

#9. Nissan Murano (Price: $14,700)

• Model: 2015 or newer
• Horsepower: 260 hp
• Transmission: CVT
• Torque: 240 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 135 mph
• Drive Type: FWD or AWD
• Safety Score: 5 Stars

It’s for teenagers and young adults. They want a stylish, fast car with lots of high-tech features. They should get this one. Driving the Nissan Murano is fun because it has a strong V6 engine and looks sleek and modern. Apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it very high-tech. They let you stay in touch while you’re moving around. Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility cares most about safety. Technology like Automatic Emergency Braking makes this possible. Blind Spot Warning is also used. A great SUV for young drivers today, the Nissan Murano looks good, works well, and is functional. You can use it to get to work or go on a weekend trip.

#10. Ford Fusion (Price: $12,200)

• Model: 2015-2018
• Horsepower: 175-240 hp
• Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic or 6-Speed Manual
• Torque: 175 lb-ft, 270 lb-ft, or 350 lb-ft
• Top Speed: 135 mph
• Drive Type: AWD or FWD

Best First Cars for Car Guys Under Under $20,000 To Buy in 2024

• 2016 Toyota Highlander ($17,800)
• 2017 Kia Sportage ($17,000)
• 2017-19 Hyundai Santa Fe ($17,800)
• 2018 Subaru Crosstrek ($19,900)
• 2018 Toyota Corolla ($18,700)
• 2014 Mazda CX-5 ($10,200)
• 2014 or 2020 Nissan Rogue ($11,000)
• 2016 Volkswagen Jetta ($10,900)
• 2015 Nissan Murano ($14,700)
• 2015-18 Ford Fusion ($12,200)

Tips for buying your teen’s first car

Finding the right car for a kid can be challenging. It is essential to consider safety, reliability, cost, and what young people like.

1) Setting a Budget

Make a budget that you can stick to. Look at the buy price, the running cost, the insurance, and the upkeep. This whole plan guarantees long-term affordability. It leads you to a cheap car that stays cheap after you leave the store.

2) Prioritizing Safety Features

Safety is the most important thing. It is best to look for cars that did well in crash tests. They should also have many airbags, ESC, and ADAS. This is very important for new drivers because it lowers the chance that you will have an accident.

3) Reliability and Maintenance

Choose brands and types that you know you can trust. Please find out how much it costs to fix problems that people often have. If you choose a car with a good past, you won’t have to deal with issues or breakdown costs.

4) Fuel Efficiency

Vehicles designed with the environment in mind lower operating expenses and repair costs. Your child’s daily school commute becomes more affordable with a fuel-efficient car. Over time, these intelligent choices cut petrol and maintenance expenses. They put money back in your pocket.

5) Size and Practicality

Think about how big the car is and how often you need it. A small car is great for driving in towns because it’s easier to turn and park. A sedan or small SUV might be better if your kid needs to carry friends or sports gear.

6) Insurance Coast

Car type and make have a significant impact on insurance prices. They cost more to insure. People think they are likely to total them. Check the insurance rates before you make up your mind.

7) Tech Features

These kids understand how to use tech. Look for cars that can link to your phone via Bluetooth, touchscreen, or other means. Using these tools is easy, and younger users like them more.

8) Brand New vs.Used

A used car costs less. But there is a guarantee of a new car. Certified pre-owned (CPO) cars offer even more extended protections. They also go through a lot of checks.

9) Resale Value

All cars lose value over time, but some do better than others. Please find out how much-used items sell for and consider the kinds that tend to keep their worth. This can help when it’s time to sell or make things better.

10) Test Drive and Inspection

Last but not least, drive the car before you buy it. Observe the halt, direction change, and acceleration with precise attention. A good mechanic should check a used car to find any problems that need clarification.

Consider your child’s safety, reliability, income, and likes when you buy them a car. These tips will help parents and kids find a vehicle that meets their needs and makes them feel safe. Remember, you can make a good choice. It will keep you safe and happy on the road. Study a lot and base your choices on facts.

Conclusion

Think about how safe, expensive, and friendly the car looks before you buy it for your child. Cars like the Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Corolla are safe. They are also up to date. Young people should drive these cars. They’re simple to use and have excellent gas economy. They incorporate the latest safety technology. You can save money without giving up quality if you buy used models that have been well cared for. Don’t remember that an excellent first car keeps everyone safe, even the parents. When looking for a match, consider the teen’s tastes, cost, and safety first. Enjoy your time off!

Sources: HotCars, TheZebra, Cars, Edmunds, TrueCar, KBB