That, and packed with safety features. Electronic stability control, which will be mandatory on all 2012 model year vehicles, reduces the risk of a fatal single-vehicle crash by 50 percent and fatal multiple vehicle crashes by 19 percent. It also cuts rollover potential by 7 percent in cars and SUVs.

Anti-lock brakes and curtain airbags are other must-have items. According to the Detroit Free Press:
"The crash risk is four times as high for 16- to 19-year-olds as for older drivers, per mile driven, the institute said. At age 16, the crash rate is double what it is for 18- to 19-year-olds, it said."

Consumer Reports recommends new or late-model versions of Acura TSX, Ford Focus sedan, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Toyota Prius and Volkswagen Jetta for teen drivers. Of course, many of these fall outside family budget considerations, in which case a conservative sedan with as many safety features as possible is a smart choice.