If you have a new driver in your household, it’s likely that you may be starting your search for the perfect new vehicle to add to the family fleet. Due to the sheer volume of choices available on the used market, it can seem difficult to find a model that delivers a combination of value, safety, fuel efficiency, and practicality without breaking the bank. To help simplify your search, our team at the Schumacher Auto Group has named our top picks for the best used cars for new drivers. These models have a proven track record for excellence and are excellent choices for the young driver in your family. Let’s take a closer look at them!
Best Used Compact SUV For New Drivers – Chevrolet Trax
Equal parts versatile and stylish, the Chevrolet Trax is the perfect choice for teens or new drivers looking for SUV capability and practicality. Great for those living busy active lifestyles, the Trax has a spacious interior that features 60/40 split-folding rear seats to help transport bulky cargo and passengers with ease. An optional all-wheel drive system adds confidence and peace of mind when driving in slippery conditions while its efficient 30 MPH highway fuel economy rating helps you get the most out of every mile. Best of all, the Chevrolet Trax has earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Cutting-edge technology features and bold exterior styling round out the compelling list of advantages for the Chevrolet Trax, making it one of the best used cars for new drivers.
Best Used Sedan For New Drivers – Chevrolet Malibu
For generations, the Chevrolet Malibu has remained a popular choice among drivers hitting the road for the first time. Its eye-catching look helps you make a memorable first impression while striking LED headlights provide superior visibility to help you stay safe behind the wheel. A standard 160-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivers the perfect blend of responsive performance and fuel economy. Most late model Malibu trims include standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, perfect for keeping your eyes safely on the road ahead while staying connected to your social circle. Examples of groundbreaking safety features available on the Chevrolet Malibu include blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights. It’s part of the reason why the Malibu has earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Best Used Pickup Truck For New Drivers – Chevrolet Colorado
Whether you’re moving into a dorm room or exploring a new area, it’s hard to ignore the capability and practicality of the Chevrolet Colorado. Available in your choice of extended or crew cabs along with both long and short bed lengths, the Colorado delivers work-ready versatility to help you get the job done. Depending on the model year, drivers can choose from an economical 4-cylinder, proven V6, and even a turbo diesel 6-cylinder engine – each purpose-built for longevity and durability. Inside the cabin, cutting-edge features like the 8-inch multimedia touchscreen and integrated 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot help you stay informed no matter how far the journey takes you. An available Safety Package adds an additional layer of protection against the unexpected as well. All of these compelling advantages helped the Chevrolet Colorado earn a position on the Kelley Blue Book Best Used Trucks Under $20,000 list in 2022, making it an excellent choice for new drivers.
Best Used Convertible For New Drivers – Chevrolet Camaro
Searching for a fun-to-drive weekend car that your teen can borrow from time to time? The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible offers top-down enjoyment along with a surprisingly efficient performance option. When equipped with the economical 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the Camaro Convertible can deliver up to 30 MPG on the highway. To encourage safe driving habits for teens, Chevrolet is the only manufacturer to offer Teen Driver technology with an in-vehicle report on most of its models including the Camaro Convertible. This innovative feature allows you to set a speed alert, an audio volume limit, and more — and with the industry’s first and only in-vehicle report card. Features like a helpful Buckle to Drive seatbelt reminder and dedicated Teen Driver mode further demonstrate how the Camaro Convertible is an excellent choice. Still not convinced? The Camaro was named to the Best Used Convertibles $10K to $15K for 2022 list from U.S. News and World Report, making it one of the best used cars for new drivers.
