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The Best Cars For Teen Drivers: Safe, Efficient, and Affordable

The Best Cars For Teen Drivers: Safe, Efficient, and Affordable

When choosing the best cars for teen drivers, it’s crucial to find a balance of safety, reliability, and affordability. Here, we highlight the top used cars for teenagers, focusing on models that are 3-5 years old and excel in these areas. These cars are reliable, safe, and perfect for learning to drive. Let’s explore the top picks, including fuel-efficient hybrids, all-wheel drive crossovers, and the best EV for teen drivers, along with their 2024 prices.

Toyota Prius

best cars for teen drivers - Toyota Prius

CR Reliability Rating: 77/100
Average Selling Price: $21,554

Why it’s great: 52 miles per gallon, 5-star crash test ratings, and excellent reliability scores from Consumer Reports… What more could you want from a first car? The Toyota Prius is a fantastic option for teen drivers, offering a budget-minded option that is sure to discourage the need for speed. The world-renowned Prius hybrid also comes equipped with a suite of safety features, like emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-keep assist. From 2019 onward, the Prius has even been available with all-wheel drive.

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Honda Civic

best cars for teen drivers - Honda Civic

CR Reliability Rating: 71/100
Average Selling Price: $19,604

Why it’s great: The Honda Civic has long been a favorite among drivers for its blend of reliability, efficiency, and sporty handling. It provides a confident driving experience powered by a turbo engine, while maintaining excellent fuel economy. The Civic is a great choice if your teen driver will be merging onto a freeway often. The Civic’s robust safety features and great crash test ratings make it a great choice for a teen driver. 

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Toyota Camry

best cars for teen drivers - Toyota Camry

CR Reliability Rating: 87/100
Average Selling Price: $21,303

Why it’s great: It’s a legendary commuter car, but the Toyota Camry is also perfect for getting comfortable behind the wheel. With a Consumer Reports reliability rating of 87/100 for the 2021 Camry, it’s one of the most dependable used cars out there. Safety features like lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking come standard with the Camry. With a great reputation, resale values are strong should your teen driver need to upgrade years down the road. The Camry’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and famous reliability make it a great vehicle for new drivers.

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Subaru Forester

best cars for teen drivers - Subaru Forester

CR Reliability Rating: 80/100
Average Selling Price: $21,917

Why it’s great: If you prefer a SUV-like driving experience for your teen without sacrificing safety, a used Subaru Forester is a top choice. The Forester comes with standard all-wheel drive, safety features like automatic emergency braking, and excellent visibility of the road. Its high reliability ratings, attainable price, and strong resale value all strengthen the Forester’s reputation as a top pick for teen drivers. 

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Lexus UX

best luxury car for teen drivers - Lexus UX

CR Reliability Rating: 87/100
Average Selling Price: $28,040

Why it’s great: For those looking for a touch of luxury, the Lexus UX offers a premium driving experience with the reliability that Lexus is known for. As the smallest model offered by the Toyota-owned luxury brand, it’s easier to command on the road than some of the larger offerings. The UX comes packed with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. As you’d expect from Lexus, the UX features a comfortable, high-quality interior with modern tech. While it’s on the pricier side, its blend of luxury and safety makes it a compelling choice for a teen driver.

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The Best EV For Teen Drivers: Volkswagen ID.4

best EV for teen drivers - Volkswagen ID.4

CR Reliability Rating: 78/100
Average Selling Price: $27,522

Why it’s great: EVs can be great for new drivers, but some are far better than others. Most parents and driving instructors would agree that it’s not smart to hand an EV with sports car capabilities to a teen driver, but not all electric vehicles are quite so fast. The Volkswagen ID.4 (2022 and onward) is a well-reviewed electric crossover with great range, good charging speeds, and 5-star safety ratings. The ID.4 even wins Top Safety Pick Plus honors from the IIHS.

What makes the ID.4 a better EV for teen drivers that say a Tesla? Simply put, the ID.4 drives more like a traditional car. It lacks the Corvette-like acceleration that you’ll find in a Model 3 or something similar, but will still merge onto a highway with ease. Think of the VW ID.4 as a safe, spacious and affordable no-frills EV for teen drivers.

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Conclusion

Choosing a car for your teen driver involves balancing safety, reliability, and affordability. These crossovers and sedans are all excellent choices that meet these criteria. Whether you’re on the hunt for a simple crossover, a bit of luxury, or a good starter EV, these cars provide the most value for new drivers, especially teenagers.

Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value Under $50,000

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value Under $50,000

While all new cars depreciate, choosing a model with a high resale value can significantly reduce your financial loss over time. Smart car buyers can minimize depreciation by selecting a vehicle with a high residual value, AKA resale value, should you ever decide to sell. Here are the top ten pickup trucks, SUVs, and luxury cars under $50,000 with the best resale value after five years. Don’t forget to check out the best resale values for new cars under $40,000.

1. Ford F-150

Starting MSRP: $38,960 for the base model (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $59,864
5-Year Residual: 86.8%

Why it’s great: The 2024 Ford F-150 has been the best-selling pickup truck for most of the past few decades, and with good reason. Known for great towing capacity and too many trim configurations to count, there’s an F-150 for practically every budget. Its blend of capabilities and great resale value makes it a top contender in the full-size pickup market. Despite a starting price of just under $40,000, the vast majority of F-150s are more expensive, and for that reason we’ve featured it on this list.

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2. Toyota 4Runner

Starting MSRP: $41,600 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $50,963
5-Year Residual: 85.0%

Why it’s great: The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is a durable, old-school SUV with a truck-style frame, ideal for rugged off-road adventures. Plus, it’s known for reliability that will last decades. It may not excel in fuel economy or modern tech, but its reliability and off-road capabilities appeal to a broad fanbase. In 2025, the 4Runner will receive the first big redesign in many years.

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3. GMC Sierra 1500

Starting MSRP: $38,345 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $61,278
5-Year Residual: 84.8%

Why it’s great: The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 offers a blend of style and strength, sharing much of its mechanical prowess with the Chevy Silverado. Available in single cab, double cab, and crew cab configurations, it caters to various needs with bed lengths ranging from 5.8 to 8.2 feet. The Sierra’s diverse engine lineup and customizable body styles make it a flexible choice for both work and play. To top it of, it’s a truck with great resale value.

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4. Lexus IS

Starting MSRP: $41,235 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $51,507
5-Year Residual: 80.1%

Why it’s great: The Lexus IS stands out as a sporty compact sedan with luxury features. The IS offers a balanced blend of excitement and functionality. The entry-level IS300 is merely okay, but the IS350’s V-6 offers a better driving experience. Lexus is well-known for excellent reliability, and the IS joins the ranks of the luxury cars with the best resale value in 2024. On the downside, Lexus models are so popular that they can be tough to negotiate. Fear not, the CarEdge Concierge team can help with that. 

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5. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Starting MSRP: $37,445 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $56,343
5-Year Residual: 80.0%

Why it’s great: The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a true workhorse. It boasts a variety of powertrain options, catering to diverse buyers. Known for its impressive towing capacity, the Silverado outperforms both the Ram 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. The cabin features a massive touchscreen for modern convenience, though it prioritizes functionality over luxury. However, this truck isn’t cheap. You might as well ignore the official starting MSRP, as over 90% of Silverado 1500s sell for over $45,000. Fortunately, you can expect it to hold its value quite well over the years.

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6. Jeep Wrangler

2024-jeep-wrangler-4xe-hero

Starting MSRP: $33,890 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $59,929
5-Year Residual: 78.9%

Why it’s great: The 2024 Jeep Wrangler remains the quintessential off-road SUV, designed for adventure-loving drivers who crave rugged terrain. Its removable doors and roof, along with a fold-down windshield, allow for an open-air experience unmatched by any other SUV. The Wrangler isn’t cheap these days, with transaction prices more commonly north of $50,000. Fortunately, resale values are among the best in its class.

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7. Honda Ridgeline

Starting MSRP: $41,145 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $44,850
5-Year Residual: 78.7%

Why it’s great: The Honda Ridgeline is the slowest-selling full-size truck on sale in 2024. Despite sluggish sales, the Ridgeline has a good resale value. If you’re looking for the best truck deals this month, the Ridgeline is commonly near the top of the list.

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8. Ford Explorer

Starting MSRP: $38,455 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $49,924
5-Year Residual: 77.3%

Why it’s great: The 2024 Ford Explorer continues to be a leading choice in the midsize SUV market, offering a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. It comes with a range of engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a robust V-6, and a hybrid variant. The Explorer’s spacious three-row seating and ample cargo space make it ideal for families and road trips. Even with growing competition from Hyundai, Kia, and others, the Explorer remains an attractive option for those seeking a family SUV with strong resale value.

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9. BMW 2-Series

Starting MSRP: $40,375 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $49,709
5-Year Residual: 77.0%

Why it’s great: The 2024 BMW 2-Series offers a blend of performance and luxury in a compact package. Available as both a coupe and a convertible, the 2-Series boasts powerful engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and an inline-six. Its sporty design, coupled with advanced safety features and a user-friendly infotainment system, makes the BMW 2-Series a compelling option for those seeking a luxury car with strong resale value.

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10. Audi A5

Starting MSRP: $47,295 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $
5-Year Residual: 76.1%

Why it’s great:  The 2024 Audi A5 Sportback blends coupe-like styling with the practicality of a four-door, powered by Quattro all-wheel drive. The A5 Sportback offers up to 261 horsepower. Inside, luxury is the name of the game with leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting. Its balanced performance, stylish design, and high-end features contribute to its high resale value.

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There’s a Better Way to Buy

Finding a car that holds its value well is a smart financial decision. The Ford F-150, Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS, and other models listed here offer robust features, great driving experiences, and notably, high resale values. Looking for more DIY car buying tools? Check out CarEdge Insights for behind-the-scenes access!

Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value Under $40,000

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value Under $40,000

New cars are depreciating assets, no matter how you look at it. However, smart car buyers can minimize depreciation by selecting a vehicle with a high residual value, AKA resale value, should you ever decide to sell. Here are the top ten cars under $40,000 with the best resale value after five years. Don’t forget to check out the best resale values for new cars under $30,000.

1. Nissan Frontier

trucks with the best resale value under $40k - Nissan Frontier

Starting MSRP: $32,020 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $40,871
5-Year Residual: 88.6%

Why it’s great: The Nissan Frontier stands out in the midsize truck segment with 310-horsepower, responsive driving, build flexibility, and unmatched resale value. The Frontier comes standard with a 5.0-foot bed, and for those needing more cargo space, there’s an optional 6.0-foot bed—something the competition doesn’t offer. Although it doesn’t tow as much as the Toyota Tacoma, the Frontier compensates with a lower cost and the best resale value among midsize trucks.

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2. Toyota Tacoma

trucks with the best resale value under $40k - Toyota Tacoma

Starting MSRP: $32,995 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $46,407
5-Year Residual: 88.0%

Why it’s great: The Toyota Tacoma is praised by nearly everyone who drives it for its exceptional durability and practicality. In 2024, the Tacoma remains a standout in the midsize truck market, offering an updated exterior and a greatly modernized interior. The new design enhances both its rugged appeal and comfort, which can be tough to balance. One of the most significant updates for 2024 is the availability of a hybrid powertrain, providing better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. Compared to larger truck competitors, the Tacoma is more likely to be found closer to the $40,000 price point. The Tacoma is one of the trucks that has the best resale value, year after year.

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3. Honda Pilot

cars with the best resale value under $40k - Honda Pilot

Starting MSRP: $38,485 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $49,221
5-Year Residual: 86.0%

Why it’s great: The 2024 Honda Pilot is a top choice for families, thanks to its spacious three-row cabin. In a market crowded with mid-size SUVs, the Pilot distinguishes itself with practicality and versatility. Under the hood, the Pilot features a robust 285-horsepower V-6 engine paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available for those who need it. For adventurous families, the Pilot offers the TrailSport model, which includes higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and even skid plates. With a 5-year residual value of 86.0%, the Honda Pilot has one of the best resale values of any SUV today.

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4. Mazda MX-5 Miata

cars with the best resale value under $40k - Mazda

Starting MSRP: $30,170 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $34,745
5-Year Residual: 85.8%

Why it’s great: The Mazda MX-5 Miata is cherished as the most affordable true sports car, delivering an exhilarating driving experience without a hefty price tag. Under the hood, it boasts a 181-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, providing ample power to make every drive a thrill. Known for its lightweight construction and superb handling, the Miata offers a responsive and engaging ride that appeals to enthusiasts on a budget. With such a high resale value, the Mazda Miata is a good choice for sports car lovers who prefer to upgrade to the latest and greatest. 

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5. GMC Canyon

trucks with the best resale value under $40k - GMC Canyon

Starting MSRP: $37,595 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $48,760
5-Year Residual: 85.3%

Why it’s great: The GMC Canyon combines power and capability in a mid-size package. Under the hood, the Canyon features a robust 310-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which lends to a segment-leading towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. Its excellent resale value further enhances its appeal.

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6. Chevrolet Colorado

2024 Chevrolet Colorado

Starting MSRP: $31,095 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $42,112
5-Year Residual: 84.0%

Why it’s great: Chevrolet’s companion to the Canyon, the mid-sized Colorado, is a well-equipped truck with a great resale value. Powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter engine, the Colorado is suitably powered for most tasks. The Colorado features a four-door cab with a five-foot bed and can be equipped with either rear- or four-wheel drive. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, the Colorado is one of the most capable trucks in its class. 

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7. Honda Odyssey

2024 Honda Odyssey

Starting MSRP: $39,635 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $45,395
5-Year Residual: 83.6%

Why it’s great: The eight-seater Odyssey showcases Honda’s commitment to family haulers with a quick V-6 engine, a refined ride, solid handling, and more room than 99% of families even need. The Odyssey’s innovative Magic Slide seat system allows for versatile second-row seat configurations. The third-row seats can be stowed into the floor to expand cargo capacity. While it may not have as many high-tech features as rivals, it beats them outright as the van with the best resale value in 2024. 

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8. Subaru Outback

Starting MSRP: $30,240 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $39,573
5-Year Residual: 83.2%

Why it’s great: The Subaru Outback combines the best of both worlds with its SUV-like styling and car-like ride, making it a versatile choice for a variety of driving needs. Every Outback comes with all-wheel drive, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. While the cabin provides decent comfort and functionality, it stops short of luxury, focusing instead on practicality and durability. The Subaru Outback’s combination of versatility and reliability makes it a standout choice for those seeking an all-weather car with excellent retail value.

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9. Honda CR-V

Starting MSRP: $30,850 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $37,286
5-Year Residual: 83.0%

Why it’s great: The Honda CR-V is a perennial favorite in the compact SUV segment, known for its reliability and affordable pricing. The CR-V’s spacious interior and cargo capacity make it an ideal choice for families looking for a no-frills crossover. On the downside, the CR-V is so popular that it can be tough to negotiate. Fear not, the CarEdge Concierge team can help with that. 

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10. Mazda CX-5

2024 Mazda CX-50

Starting MSRP: $30,720 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $34,141
5-Year Residual: 82.7%

Why it’s great: Although newer competitors have emerged, the CX-5 continues to impress with its superb handling and refined interior. Under the hood, the CX-5 features a 187-horsepower with standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking more power, the optional 256-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is the way to go. While the CX-5 sacrifices some cargo space for its stylish design, the cabin exudes luxury and comfort, making it a pleasure to drive and ride in. Despite its age (7 years on the market), the CX-5 continues to impress and attract more fans. With a 5-year residual value of 82.7%, you can stress less should you need to upgrade from this workhorse in the future.

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There’s a Better Way to Buy

Finding a car that holds its value well is a smart financial decision. The Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, Honda Pilot, and other models listed here offer robust features, great driving experiences, and notably, the best resale values. Looking for more DIY car buying tools? Check out CarEdge Insights for behind-the-scenes access!

Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value [Under $30,000]

10 Cars With the Best Resale Value [Under $30,000]

Choosing a car with a high resale value can save you money in the long run, especially if you tend to upgrade every few years. By selecting a vehicle with a high residual value, you can count on getting more money back when you decide to sell. Here are the top ten cars under $30,000 with the best resale value after five years, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.

👉 Open to a bigger budget? Check out the cars and trucks with the best resale values for under $40,000.

1. Honda Accord

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Honda Accord

Starting MSRP: $28,990 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $33,022, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 88.0%

Why it’s great: The Honda Accord boasts a recently updated exterior, giving a more elegant look to this proven winner. Plus, the Accord comes with a very efficient hybrid powertrain on most models. Today’s Accord is much roomier than those of decades past, offering a spacious backseat for kids and adults alike. To top it off, the Accord offers better handling than its main competitor, the Toyota Camry. The latest data shows the Honda Accord retaining 88% of its value after five years, crowning this sedan as the car that holds value the best.

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2. Subaru Forester

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Subaru Forester

Starting MSRP: $28,440 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $35,232, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 87.1%

Why it’s great: Snowstorms and downpours are no match for this popular SUV. The Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive and impressive driver assistance features at a low price point. For 2025, the Forester will undergo significant changes and a $4,000 price bump, making the 2024 model a great deal. Should you ever decide to sell your Forester, expect to be rewarded with a high resale value.

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3. Volkswagen Tiguan

cars with the best resale value under $30k - VW Tiguan

Starting MSRP: $30,305 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $34,938, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 87.0%

Why it’s great: The Volkswagen Tiguan is fun to drive, offers plenty of room in the first and second rows, and has an optional third row. It competes with the Mitsubishi Outlander, offering better overall performance and fuel economy.

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4. Mazda 3

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Mazda Mazda3

Starting MSRP: $25,355 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $29,689, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 86.1%

Why it’s great: The Mazda 3 stands out in the compact car segment for several reasons. It features an upscale interior with high-quality materials and a design that almost feels premium. Whether you choose the sedan or the hatchback, the Mazda 3 offers a fun-to-drive experience with its responsive handling and peppy engine options.

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5. Honda Civic

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Honda Civic

Starting MSRP: $25,045 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $27,568, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 86.0%

Why it’s great: Simply the best small car on sale today. However, the Civic does face stiff competition from another car on this list, the Mazda3. The Civic’s infotainment has improved in recent model years, adding to the overall value of this legendary sedan.The Honda Civic is renowned for its reliability, spacious cabin, and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an outstanding choice for first-time buyers and budget-conscious drivers alike. 

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6. Toyota Prius

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Toyota Prius

Starting MSRP: $29,045 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $35,468, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 85.0%

Why it’s great: The Toyota Prius has undergone a remarkable transformation with its latest redesign, offering a sleek and modern look that sets it apart from older generations. Gone is the ‘nerdy’ Prius of the 2000s. Known for its exceptional fuel economy, the Prius now achieves an impressive 56 miles per gallon combined, making it one of the most efficient vehicles on the market. The availability of an all-wheel drive option enhances its versatility.

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7. Subaru Legacy

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Subaru Legacy

Starting MSRP: $26,015 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $32,645, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 84.7%

Why it’s great: The Subaru Legacy stands out as the best all-wheel drive sedan under $30,000. It provides a simple, no-frills interior that focuses on functionality and comfort, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prefer straightforward design over flashy features. Subaru’s reputation for durability and value retention make the Legacy a top contender for those seeking a dependable, all-wheel drive sedan that holds its value well over time.

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8. Volkswagen Jetta

cars with the best resale value under $30k - VW Jetta

Starting MSRP: $22,660 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $26,694, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 85.0%

Why it’s great: The Volkswagen Jetta is a standout in the compact sedan segment, offering a combination of affordability, efficiency, and comfort. Known for its spacious interior, the Jetta provides ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. These features, combined with its low price tag and strong resale value, make the Volkswagen Jetta an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and affordablec car with the best resale value.

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9. Subaru Crosstrek

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Subaru Crosstrek

Starting MSRP: $26,540 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $32,047, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual: 84.0%

Why it’s great: The Subaru Crosstrek offers standard all-wheel drive at an affordable price, excellent fuel efficiency considering its all-terrain capability, A comfortable and confident drive appeals to many, making this one of Subaru’s best-sellers less than a decade after its launch. A recent update includes more comfortable seats and additional sound-deadening materials, resulting in a quieter and more enjoyable ride. Inside, the Crosstrek features a spacious cabin with modern technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

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10. Toyota Camry

cars with the best resale value under $30k - Toyota Camry

Starting MSRP: $27,515 (including destination fees)
Average Selling Price in 2024: $32,249, try CarEdge Insights for local price data
5-Year Residual Value: 83.0%

Why it’s great: The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling sedan in the U.S. for over 20 years, and for good reason. The Camry’s performance is bolstered by the availability of a six-cylinder powertrain, providing more power while still maintaining good fuel efficiency. For 2025, the Camry will be redesigned as a hybrid-only sedan, promising over 50 miles per gallon across all trims, which further enhances its appeal. The new design will likely continue the Camry’s legacy of reliability and as a car with great resale value. 

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There’s a Better Way to Buy

Choosing a car with the best resale value is always a smart financial decision. The Honda Accord, Subaru Forester, Toyota Camry, and other models listed here offer robust features, a great driving experience, and notably, high resale values. By choosing one of these vehicles, you can expect a bigger paycheck when it’s time to sell.

Tired of car shopping hassles? Let us do it for you with our CarEdge Concierge service. Our experts can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, negotiate the best price, and handle all the details, saving you time and money. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the #1 car buying service in America.

The 5 Best Cars and Trucks for First-Time Buyers

The 5 Best Cars and Trucks for First-Time Buyers

Choosing the right car as a first-time buyer can feel like a daunting task, but with knowledge and empowerment, it doesn’t have to be. What should first-time buyers and new drivers look for in a vehicle? Reliability, affordability, and fuel economy are key factors to consider. In 2024, several models stand out for their exceptional value for new drivers. Here are the top five cars for first-time buyers, with insights to help guide your decision.

1. Honda Civic

best cars for new drivers - Honda Civic

Why First-Time Buyers Love It: The Honda Civic has evolved over the years, offering more space while maintaining its compact and reliable nature. Renowned for its excellent fuel economy and attainable price point, the Civic is a popular choice among first-time buyers.

Starting Price: $25,045 (increasing to $25,345 for 2025)

Fuel Economy: 33 – 36 miles per gallon combined city/highway

Crash Test Safety Rating: 5-Star NHTSA Rating

Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Honda Civic is $27,568 in 2024. There’s a 34-day supply of new Civics, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!

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2. Toyota Corolla

best cars for new drivers - Toyota Corolla

Why First-Time Buyers Love It: The Toyota Corolla is synonymous with affordability and reliability. Known for its proven track record, the Corolla offers peace of mind to first-time buyers looking for a durable and economical car. It’s safe, fuel efficient, and low-maintenance. What more could you want? Perhaps more room? Toyota has brought the Corolla Cross to market for that very reason.

Starting Price: $23,145

Fuel Economy: 35 miles per gallon combined city/highway (50 MPG for the Corolla Hybrid)

Crash Test Safety Rating: 5-Star NHTSA Rating

Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota Corolla is $25,484 in 2024. There’s a 35-day supply of new Corollas, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!

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3. Toyota RAV4

best cars for new drivers - Toyota RAV4

Why First-Time Buyers Love It: If you need something slightly larger than a sedan with a higher stance on the road, the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent option. This crossover combines size with ease of driving, making it perfect for first-timers. With a 5-star safety rating and a large market presence, getting a fair price in 2024 is quite doable. The Honda CR-V is also a great option for all the same reasons.

Starting Price: $30,025

Fuel Economy: 30 miles per gallon combined city/highway (39 MPG for the RAV4 Hybrid)

Crash Test Safety Rating: 5-Star NHTSA Rating

Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota RAV4 is $37,721 in 2024. There’s a 29-day supply of new RAV4s, which is below normal. Work with a car-buying Concierge to avoid dealer markups!

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4. Subaru Crosstrek

best AWD car for new drivers - 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

Why First-Time Buyers Love It: Subaru is known for being more pro-consumer than many of its competitors, making it easier to find a fair price. The Crosstrek stands out with its all-wheel drive capabilities, ideal for those needing extra traction. It’s a versatile and reliable choice for new drivers.

Starting Price: $26,540

Fuel Economy: 29 miles per gallon combined city/highway

Crash Test Safety Rating: 5-Star NHTSA Rating

Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Subaru Crosstrek is $32,047 in 2024. There’s a 77-day supply of new Crosstreks, which is near the market average. 

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5. Toyota Tacoma

best truck for new drivers - Toyota Tacoma

Why First-Time Buyers Love It: For those considering a truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a great option. If you don’t need a full-sized truck, the mid-sized Tacoma offers durability and practicality. In 2024, it’s more likely to find a new Tacoma closer to the $40,000 price point compared to larger truck competitors, making it an accessible choice for first-time truck buyers.

Starting Price: $32,995

Fuel Economy: 23 miles per gallon combined city/highway

Crash Test Safety Rating: 4-Star NHTSA Rating

Current Market Conditions: The average selling price of a new Toyota Tacoma is $46,407 in 2024. There’s a 65-day supply of new Tacomas, which is close to the market average today.

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There’s a Better Way to Buy

Finding the perfect car as a first-time buyer involves balancing cost, reliability, and overall value. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Tacoma excel in these areas, making them the best choices for new drivers today. It’s a buyer’s market in 2024, and no buyer should pay for markups on these value-packed models.

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