Also, get a car with a spare tire. For some reason, many late-model cars are omitting this feature. Why anyone would buy a car without such an essential part is beyond me, but people do. You do not want your child to be stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire.

Agreed with the "solid and slow" comment. Something like an older Town Car would be ideal--it isn't "cool," it won't go fast, it is heavy and stable, and it has plenty of metal on the exterior to protect the occupants. They also tend to be unpopular on the used market and, thus, relatively inexpensive.

But, really, any mid-size or full-size sedan that has been well-maintained is probably fine. Don't get an SUV or minivan (they are built to lower safety standards than cars and also have a high center of gravity and are likely to tip or roll over). Don't get anything that will go fast. My own opinion is that Jettas and Civics are both fine cars, but that a larger car is preferable in this case.

Whatever you get, make sure that it has good tires and brakes and have a trusted mechanic check it out before you buy it.

Whatever car she can afford, or at least afford to pay half the purchase price + insurance. So maybe an 6 year old Civic or Corolla?

If you buy her a car, she'll crash it. If she buys a car, she'll take care of it.

Anonymous wrote:A used Toyota corolla or camry.

This. Or use civic. Preferably an old family car instead of new to your family.

A used Toyota corolla or camry.

I got my kid a 2017 Lexus IS350 4-door sedan this past year. Full of safety features and nice looking

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Either Jetta or civic makes sense. I'd look for a manual transmission too.

who is paying for repairs? civic is cheaper.

are you concerned about her speeding? the civic has less pep.

Once you learn how to drive it.a manual is much better to drive in weather conditions like rain snow or ice.

My vote is for solid and slow OP.

Do not get her a cool or trendy car.

Don't do it. I forget that stat they gave out as part of the parent meeting for Driver's ed. However, teens who have their own car (vs. access to a family car are way more likely to get into an accident.

The jetta is cuter. Does that matter?

Anonymous wrote:Either Jetta or civic makes sense. I'd look for a manual transmission too.

who is paying for repairs? civic is cheaper.

are you concerned about her speeding? the civic has less pep.

Either Jetta or civic makes sense. I'd look for a manual transmission too.

Anonymous wrote:No, get a civic.

It appears to be the same safety rating as the jetta. Any additional reasons why?

Sure. Any late model car is going to meet basic safety requirements.

No, get a civic.

I'm going to look at a Jetta for her after work. Good first car? If not, any recommendations on another?