5 Things to consider when buying a car for your teenager

By: deeperStates Tech

Father and Son

In choosing their first car, teenagers will likely go for something flashy and showy. As a parent, however, you know fancy looks will have to take a back seat to something more important, particularly safety and reliability.

Car crashes are a top cause of death among young people today. This is why when choosing a car for a teen driver, it’s crucial to buy as many safety features as you can afford.

 

Here’s a guide on what to have for your teenager’s first car

 

1. Safety tools and devices

New drivers are more at risk because of their inexperience and tendency to experiment. It’s important to get a car with top-of-the-line safety features to mitigate driving errors and help save life and limb if an accident does happen. A few of the most helpful features to look for include:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Anti-lock braking system
  • Head curtain airbags
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Rear view camera
  • Blind spot detection

 

2. Acceleration

Acceleration should be balanced. If the car accelerates too fast, the driver can easily lose control; and if it accelerates too slow, it may have a hard time in overtaking. The recommended acceleration is 0 to 100km/h in about 8 to 11 seconds. It can be a bit faster but never more than 0-100 in six seconds.

 

3. Year model

If it’s within your budget, choose a late model as this often incorporates the latest and most advanced safety features. Invest in these features, even if it means sacrificing some comfort and aesthetics.

 

4. Smaller size

A car is preferred over a truck or an SUV, as the former handles more easily. Larger vehicles have longer braking distances and roll over more easily.

 

5. Crash test performance

You can get information on crash test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While the best scenario is that a crash is avoided altogether, a car that can stand up well to one may just prove to be a lifesaver.

Get the best possible car for your teenager. Enquire now with fundit about the best deals you can get.

 

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