If you’re in the market for a safe, used SUV for your newly licensed teenage driver that costs less than $10,000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports have you covered.
The organizations recently released a list of 45 used cars and SUVs that are usually available for less than $10,000 and have performed well on crash tests. They also have highly rated headlights and automatic emergency braking systems that can detect pedestrians.
“We curate this annual list specifically for teens because driving holds extra risk for them,” IIHS Senior Research Scientist Rebecca Weast said in a statement. “That said, the suggestions are suitable for drivers of any age looking to balance affordability with crash protection and crash avoidance.”
“A teen’s first car is a major milestone,” Emily Thomas, associate director of auto safety at Consumer Reports, said in a statement. “Whether you’re buying them a vehicle or deciding which family car they should begin driving, these lists help parents make those choices with confidence, and without compromising on 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
Model Years Recommended: 2014–2024Median Used Price: $5,700
What they said: MotorTrend said in a review “in one of the market’s most popular segments, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox merely exists. Its spacious interior and intuitive technology suite are let down by a disappointing drivetrain that is neither smooth nor responsive.”
2. Fiat 500X
Model Years Recommended: 2016–2018; built after July 2015Median Used Price: $5,700
What they said: Edmunds said in a review “the 2018 500X is just 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 this one of our favorites in the class.”
3. Nissan Rogue
Model Years Recommended: 2014–2020Median Used Price: $5,900
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review “the 2020 Rogue underperforms compared with the (compact crossover) segment’s many more desirable alternatives. Its four-cylinder engine struggles to move the hefty crossover, which also feels heavy-handed to drive. However, it does afford a compliant ride and ample passenger space.”
4. Hyundai Tucson
Model Years Recommended: 2016–2021Median Used Price: $7,100
What they said: Kelley Blue Book said in a review the Hyundai Tucson “has an unbeatable 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. It could also be said that the Tucson offers a more muscular engine and all-wheel drive, but plenty of rivals can make these claims as well.”
5. Audi Q3
Model Years Recommended: 2015–2025Median Used Price: $7,200
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review “while the 2025 Audi Q3 is one of the least expensive luxury subcompact SUVs in the segment, it still strikes a nice balance between amenities and practicality.”
6. Jeep Compass
Model Years Recommended: 2017–2022, built after December 2016Median Used Price: $7,600
What they said: Edmunds said in a review the 2022 Jeep Compass is “a rival to the likes of the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Hyundai Tucson and stands out with its above-average off-road capabilities.”
7. Kia Niro Hybrid
Model Years Recommended: 2017–2022Median Used Price: $7,800
What they said: U.S. News and World Report said in a review “the 2022 Kia Niro is available with three fuel-efficient powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric – and pairs them with a practical hatchback body.”
8. Mazda CX-5
Model Years Recommended: 2014–2017; built after October 2013Median Used Price: $8,400
What they said: U.S. News and World Report said in a review “the 2022 Kia Niro is available with three fuel-efficient powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric – and pairs them with a practical hatchback body.”
9. BMW X1
Model Years Recommended: 2016–2025Median Used Price: $8,600
What they said: Edmunds said in a review “the 2025 BMW X1 may be the least expensive SUV in the German automaker’s lineup, but it doesn’t feel that way. The X1 comes packed with desirable tech and comfort features.”
10. Kia Sportage
Model Years Recommended: 2017–2025Median Used Price: $8,600
What they said: Car and Driver said in a review “the Kia Sportage offers a generous list of standard equipment and an enticing array of options along with versatility and space at an affordable starting price.”
11. Mazda CX-3
Model Years Recommended: 2016–2019Median Used Price: $9,000
What they said: MotorTrend said in a review “interior and exterior enhancements freshen 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.”
12. Nissan Rogue Sport
Model Years Recommended: 2017Median 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 decent cargo space, with a lower profile than the standard Rogue and sleeker looks. Essentially, it’s an even more compact version of the already compact crossover.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY. Reporting by Keith Laing, USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
