Skip to main content

Those looking to buy a new small SUV but knowing they have to share it with their teen driver may be at a loss of what to buy. You want something stylish and functional, but also safe enough for your inexperienced driver. What should you do? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has put out this list of the safest vehicles for your teen driver. There are plenty of great options for yourself, too. Here are the five safest small 2022 SUVs for your teen – and for you.

The best used SUV for 2022 include the Mazda CX-3
The Mazda CX-3 SUV | Mazda

The Mazda CX-5 is one of the safest used SUVs for teens

The 2014 Mazda CX-5 – and newer models are on the IIHS list of the safest used SUVs for teens. If you’re looking for a Mazda CX-5, make sure that you buy one that was manufactured after October 2013. The average starting price of a used Mazda CX-5 on the list of the safest SUVs for teens is $10,200.

The Honda CR-V is on the IIHS list

Another SUV to make the list of the safest small SUVs for teens is the Honda CR-V. Specifically, models made from 2015 and on are on the list. You’ll pay at least $14,900 for one of the safest Honda CR-Vs.

The 2019 Mazda CX-3 has above-average reliability

Another SUV to make the list is the 2019 Mazda CX-3. That’s in part thanks to its good reliability ratings. In order to make the list, a vehicle has to have “above-average reliability scores from CR for the majority of model years listed and CR emergency handling scores of 3 out of 5 or higher. They also have dry braking distances (going from 60 mph to zero) of 145 feet or less.”

The Hyundai Kona has good crash test ratings

The 2018 and 2021 Hyundai Konas make the list of the safest used SUVs for teens. To be on the list of the safest small used SUVs for teens, a vehicle must have “good ratings in the IIHS moderate overlap front, original side, roof strength and head restraint tests, as well as a good or acceptable rating in the driver-side small overlap front test.”

The 2017 Volvo XC60 is one of the best used SUVs for a new driver

Another great option for an inexperienced driver is the 2017 Volvo XC60. The 2017 Volvo XC60 has a starting price of $19,400, making this an affordable option for a used SUV for your teen driver. Plus, the Volvo XC90 is a stylish luxury SUV, which your teen will likely love.

Shopping for the best and safest small SUV for teens can be stressful. After all, you want something that’s super safe, but also something that will be stylish and functional. In addition, you may not want or be able to spend a lot of money on a vehicle for your teen. Using the IIHS and Consumer Reports list of the best used vehicles for teens can help you narrow down your options. Any of the small SUVs on this list are a great choice for teens.

Related

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 Has an Important Advantage Over 2 Luxury SUVs