If you’re looking for a safe, used SUV for your newly licensed teen driver that costs less than $10,000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports has you covered.
The organizations recently released a list of 45 used cars and SUVs that are typically available for less than $10,000 and have performed well in crash tests. They also have high-end headlights and automatic emergency braking systems that can detect pedestrians.
“We created this annual list specifically for teens because driving poses additional risks for them,” IIHS senior research scientist Rebecca West said in a statement. “That said, the suggestions are appropriate for drivers of any age who want to balance affordability with crash safety and crash prevention.”
“A teen’s first car is a big milestone,” Emily Thomas, associate director of auto safety at Consumer Reports, said in a statement. “Whether you’re buying a vehicle for them or deciding which family car they should drive, these lists help parents make those choices with confidence and without compromising safety.”
12 safe small SUVs under $10,000
The USA TODAY Cars team took a look at the group’s lists and compiled some information for consumers about the highlighted models.
1.Chevrolet Equinox
Recommended Model Years: 2014-2024 Average Used Price: $5,700
What they said: MotorTrend said in a review, “In one of the hottest segments of the market, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox exists. Its spacious interior and intuitive technology suite are let down by a disappointing drivetrain that’s neither smooth nor responsive.”
2. Fiat 500X
Recommended Model Year: 2016-2018; Built after July 2015 Average used price: $5,700
What they said: Edmunds said in a review, “The 2018 500X is about as affordable as other pint-sized crossovers, but its Fiat 500-inspired exterior design, high-quality interior materials and good use of interior space are enough to make it one of our favorites in the class.”
3. Nissan Rogue
Recommended Model Years: 2014-2020 Average Used Price: $5,900
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review, “The 2020 Rogue (compact crossover) performs poorly compared to many of the segment’s more desirable options. Its four-cylinder engine struggles to move the heavier crossover, which also feels heavy to drive. However, it offers a compliant ride and ample passenger space.”
4. Hyundai Tucson
Recommended Model Years: 2016-2021 Average Used Price: $7,100
What they said: Kelley Blue Book said in a review that the Hyundai Tucson has an “unbeatable 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It can also be said that the Tucson offers more powerful engines and all-wheel drive, but many rivals can also make these claims.”
5. Audi Q3
Recommended Model Years: 2015-2025 Average Used Price: $7,200
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review, “Although the 2025 Audi Q3 is one of the least expensive luxury subcompact SUVs in the segment, it still strikes a good balance between features and practicality.”
6. Jeep Compass
Recommended Model Years: 2017-2022, Made After December 2016 Average Used Price: $7,600
What they said: Edmunds said in a review that the 2022 Jeep Compass “rivals the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Hyundai Tucson and stands out with its above-average off-road capabilities.”
7. Kia Niro Hybrid
Recommended Model Years: 2017-2022 Average Used Price: $7,800
What they said: “The 2022 Kia Niro is available with three fuel-efficient powertrains — hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric — and they’re paired with a practical hatchback body,” U.S. News & World Report said in a review.
8. Mazda CX-5
Recommended Model Years: 2014-2017; Built after October 2013 Average used price: $8,400
What they said: “The 2022 Kia Niro is available with three fuel-efficient powertrains — hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric — and they’re paired with a practical hatchback body,” U.S. News & World Report said in a review.
9. BMW X1
Recommended Model Years: 2016-2025 Average Used Price: $8,600
What they said: Edmunds said in a review, “The 2025 BMW
10. Kia Sportage
Recommended Model Year: 2017-2025 Average Used Price: $8,600
What they said: “The Kia Sportage offers versatility and space at an affordable starting price, as well as a generous list of standard equipment and an attractive range of options,” Car and Driver said in a review.
11. Mazda CX-3
Recommended Model Years: 2016-2019 Average Used Price: $9,000
What they said: “Interior and exterior enhancements refresh the CX-3 for 2019, with a new grille design, LED taillight design, an electronic parking brake, a new rear-center armrest with cupholders, and redesigned seats,” MotorTrend said in a review.
12. Nissan Rogue Sport
Recommended Model Year: 2017 Average Used Price: $9,100
What they said: Edmunds said in a review, “Smaller and less powerful than the standard Rogue, the new Rogue Sport seats five passengers (no optional third row here) and has good cargo space, a lower profile and sleeker looks than the standard Rogue. Essentially, it’s an even more compact version of the already compact crossover.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY. Reporting by Keith Lang, USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
