Three Great Used SUVs for New Drivers

Find the perfect used SUV for you or your newly licensed teen. These three great used SUVs for new drivers offer a perfect mix of safety and driveability to keep everyone happy.

Feel Safe and Confident Behind the Wheel of these Used SUVs

Learning how to drive is scary. Even with a completed driver education course under their belts, new drivers don’t always know what to expect under real-world conditions. SUVs make good first vehicles because they help new drivers feel confident and keep them safe.

For most people, including parents purchasing their kids’ first cars, teens buying their own, and adults who got their licenses late, a used SUV is the best way to go. It’s cheaper than buying new, and good used vehicles already have reputations for safety and reliability.

The Mazda CX-5 Is One of the Best Small Crossovers Available

Small crossover SUVs are good options for new drivers, and the current generation Mazda CX-5 leads the pack. This small crossover SUV is less powerful than some of its rivals, with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine that produces just 187 HP and 186 lb-ft of torque. However, that’s not a drawback for new drivers but an asset.

Drivers won’t be taking this used Mazda SUV to the track but will enjoy driving it on highways and city streets alike. The handling is spot on, especially around twists and turns, and the interior is generally pleasant, with low engine noise and exceptional climate control.

Most importantly, the Mazda CX-5 is safe. The small crossover SUV features multiple advanced safety systems, and driver aids, including lane departure warnings and blind-spot monitoring. Get a Mazda CX-5 from the current generation, released in 2018, to take full advantage.

Go a Bit Bigger With the Hyundai Santa Fe

Sometimes, bigger is better. If you’re buying a used SUV for a first-time driver who will return the favor by bringing siblings to school or soccer practice, for example, a midsize model will be a better fit. That’s where the Hyundai Santa Fe shines.

Keep in mind that model year counts if size is an issue. The Santa Fe got a redesign in 2017 that gave it an extra row of seating. This generation of Santa Fe has a 3.3L V6 powertrain, making it a little more powerful than the smaller Mazda CX-5.

The Hyundai Santa Fe has a notably lackluster standard safety features package, with antilock brakes, traction control, and a rearview camera topping the list. To get access to advanced safety features, drivers need to upgrade to a Limited or Ultimate model.

The Kia Niro Is Great for Saving Money on Fuel

Let’s get this out of the way. Most people looking for a used SUV won’t even consider the Kia Niro. While it is technically an SUV, it gives off a very four-door-wagon vibe.

The Kia Niro Hybrid deserves consideration by anyone unwilling to sacrifice fuel economy for space. The hybrids have a 1.6L 4-cyl combustion engine and a 356-volt electric motor. The plug-in hybrid can drive 26 miles before the gas engine kicks in.

Test Drive These Used SUVs for Your Peace of Mind

Choosing the right used SUV for a new driver requires carefully considering priorities. The vehicle has to be safe, and it should be relatively easy to drive. Questions of space vs fuel efficiency and how much power is necessary offer more flexibility.