When it came time to help my cousin shop for her first car, safety and budget were the top two concerns. She’s a teen driver, just got her license, and like most families, we weren’t trying to spend more than $25k. After hours of research and test drives, I realized that there are actually several compact SUVs that strike a great balance between affordability, crash safety, and teen-friendly features.
So if you’re looking for a solid, safe first SUV for a teenager (without spending a fortune), here are the best compact picks that meet that sweet spot.
What Makes a Good Teen SUV?
Before diving into the list, here’s what I prioritized:
- Top safety ratings (IIHS and NHTSA)
- Driver-assist features like lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking
- Reasonable insurance premiums for new drivers
- Good visibility and easy handling
- Low total cost of ownership
All the picks below are available new or lightly used under $25,000, depending on trim and mileage.
1. 2021–2023 Mazda CX-5 (Base or Select Trim)
Mazda’s CX-5 is hands-down one of the safest and most refined options in this class.
Why it’s great:
- Top-tier crash scores from IIHS
- Standard advanced safety tech even on base trims
- Smooth handling that’s fun but not overwhelming
What to watch for:
- Rear seat space is slightly tight
- Premium trims might push you over budget
If your teen is already a careful driver and you want them to grow into something nice, this is a great option.
2. 2020–2023 Honda HR-V
This subcompact SUV is known for being ultra-reliable and very forgiving to drive.
Why it’s great:
- Simple controls and excellent visibility
- Honda Sensing safety suite included on most trims
- Great fuel economy (up to 34 mpg highway)
What to watch for:
- Acceleration can feel sluggish
- Newer models cost closer to the top end of the budget
The HR-V is perfect for teens who are still building confidence behind the wheel.
3. 2019–2023 Subaru Crosstrek
If you’re worried about weather or live in a colder state, this one’s for you.
Why it’s great:
- Comes standard with all-wheel drive
- High safety scores and lots of passive safety features
- Rugged build without being too big
What to watch for:
- Some base trims lack Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Not the zippiest engine
The Crosstrek is often overlooked, but it’s one of the best “set-it-and-forget-it” cars for young drivers.
4. 2020–2023 Hyundai Kona
The Kona packs a lot of personality into a small package, and it’s usually more affordable than competitors.
Why it’s great:
- Standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring
- Sporty look that still feels appropriate for a teen
- Affordable maintenance and insurance
What to watch for:
- Rear visibility isn’t the best
- Smaller cargo space
If your teen is asking for something cool and modern, the Kona is a strong compromise between style and safety.
5. 2020–2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
It’s new-ish, but some lightly used models are now under $25k.
Why it’s great:
- Toyota’s legendary reliability
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense on all trims
- Easy to drive and not overpowered
What to watch for:
- Not as spacious as some other SUVs
- Limited availability in certain regions
If your main priority is keeping your teen safe and on the road with minimal hassle, this is a winner.
Comparison Chart
| SUV Model | Safety Rating (IIHS) | AWD Available | Insurance Cost* | Est. Used Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-5 | Top Safety Pick+ | Yes | Moderate | $20k–$24k |
| Honda HR-V | Top Safety Pick | Yes (some trims) | Low | $18k–$23k |
| Subaru Crosstrek | Top Safety Pick | Yes (standard) | Low | $19k–$24k |
| Hyundai Kona | Top Safety Pick | Yes (optional) | Moderate | $17k–$22k |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | Top Safety Pick | Yes (some trims) | Low | $21k–$25k |
*Insurance cost is estimated relative to teen driver averages.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to teen drivers, but these compact SUVs hit the right notes for most families. They’re safe, manageable, and won’t destroy your budget. Personally, I’d go for the Crosstrek or HR-V if you’re trying to keep things low maintenance. If your teen wants something sleeker, the Kona or CX-5 will feel more “grown-up” without sacrificing safety.