Your Car Guru and Mom: The Best Cars for College-Bound Drivers

Summary

Selecting the perfect car for your college-bound child involves balancing safety, reliability, and affordability. This guide explores the best vehicles for young drivers, providing data-driven insights and expert advice to help parents make an informed choice. From avoiding SUVs and compact cars to understanding the importance of safety features, this article covers all the essentials.

The Dilemma: Choosing the Right Car

Lauren Fix, known as the Car Coach, often receives questions about selecting, maintaining, and fueling vehicles. One common query involves choosing a car for a college-bound teenager. For instance, a parent might consider giving their child a 2001 Ford Explorer or a Buick LeSabre inherited from a grandparent. While both options have their merits, the decision ultimately hinges on safety, reliability, and suitability for a young, inexperienced driver.

Safety First: Why the Buick LeSabre?

The Buick LeSabre, especially models from the early 2000s, is often recommended for young drivers due to its robust safety features. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), vehicles like the LeSabre offer better crash protection compared to smaller cars. However, it's crucial to ensure that the specific model year includes essential safety features such as anti-lock brakes and airbags.

The Rise of College-Bound Drivers

More teenagers are driving to college now than ever before. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 19.7 million students were projected to attend colleges and universities in the fall of 2020. With this increase, the need for safe and reliable transportation has become more critical.

What to Look for in a College Car

When selecting a car for a college-bound driver, consider the following factors:

1. Affordability and Maintenance

• The car should be budget-friendly and economical to maintain. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average cost of owning a car in 2020 was around $9,561 per year, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

2. Safety Features

• Look for cars with high safety ratings. The IIHS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provide comprehensive safety ratings for various models.

3. Seating and Storage

• College students often need to transport friends and belongings, so a car with ample seating and storage is essential.

Avoiding the Wrong Choices

1. SUVs and Compact Cars

• Traditional truck-based SUVs are not ideal for inexperienced drivers due to their higher rollover risk. Similarly, compact cars often lack the crash protection offered by larger vehicles.

2. Sports Cars

• Sports cars and high-performance vehicles are linked to higher accident rates among young drivers. The IIHS notes that young drivers are more likely to be involved in speed-related crashes in these types of vehicles.

Interesting Stats

• Teen Driving Accidents: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. In 2019, about 2,400 teens aged 13-19 were killed, and about 258,000 were treated in emergency departments for injuries suffered in motor vehicle crashes.
• Insurance Costs: Teen drivers are more expensive to insure. The average annual premium for a teen driver is around $2,267, compared to $1,427 for an adult driver, according to a 2020 report by The Zebra.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car for a college-bound driver involves careful consideration of safety, reliability, and cost. While options like the Buick LeSabre offer robust safety features, it's essential to ensure the vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with modern safety technologies. By avoiding high-risk vehicles like SUVs and sports cars, parents can provide their young drivers with a safer, more reliable mode of transportation.

For more information on vehicle safety ratings, visit the IIHS and NHTSA websites.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the best cars for college-bound drivers, emphasizing the importance of safety, reliability, and affordability. By considering these factors, parents can make informed decisions that ensure their children's safety on the road.