It sounds crazy: parents of teenagers just might want to buy their kids a Lexus SUV. Yet there are very good reasons behind that idea, and they have to do with safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says that there are three used Lexus SUVs that are safe enough for inexperienced drivers. Here’s what makes these three SUVs a great option for your kids.

The 2015, 2016, and 2018 Lexus NX are on the IIHS’ list of the Best Used SUVs for teenagers

Three used Lexus NX models make the IIHS’ list of the best used SUVs for teen drivers; the 2015, 2016, and 2018 model years. ). The IIHS tests vehicles and conducts research on driving and safety. It releases a list of the safest vehicles for teenagers every year. The Best Used list includes vehicles with good ratings in the IIHS moderate overlap front, original side, and roof strength and head restraint tests. They also must have a good or acceptable rating in the small overlap test on the driver side.

The IIHS says that you’ll pay about $16,000 for one of these used Audi SUV models. They also have “4 or 5 stars overall or 4 or 5 stars in the front and side tests under the old rating scheme.” In addition, they have electronic stability control as well as a curb weight of at least 2,750 pounds.

The 2010 Lexus RX and newer models are on the list of Good Used SUVs

Good used SUVs aren’t as ideal as the best used SUVs, but the IIHS says that if you can’t afford or find one of the best SUVs available, those on the Good list are the best next thing. You’ll pay about $11,092 for a used Lexus RX. Good vehicles must have good ratings in the IIHS moderate overlap front, original side, and roof strength and head restraint tests. If the NHTSA has rated them, they must meet the same criteria as those on the Best Used SUV list. In addition, they have to have electronic stability control and a curb weight of 2,750 pounds.

The 2022 Lexus UX makes the list of Best New SUVs

If you want to spend a little more money on something new, consider the 2022 Lexus UX. With a starting price of $33,500, the UX is a great new SUV for teenagers because it is an IIHS Top Safety Pick winner and it comes standard with vehicle-to-vehicle automated emergency braking.

The IIHS Best New Vehicles must also have good Consumer Reports predicted reliability ratings, average or better emergency handling test scores, and take fewer than 140 feet to stop from 60 mph on dry pavement. In addition, they must have a good or better for their controls from Consumer Reports. Finally, they couldn’t have high average insurance claim rates under medical payment or personal injury protection in models from the last few years.

Overall, Lexus makes some great SUVs for teen drivers. Whether you want a used Lexus NX or RX SUV or a brand new 2022 Lexus UX, it’s easy to find a luxury SUV that will be safe enough for your teen driver.