Buying a car for a teenager or student can be daunting, especially as the main concern is their safety. Our recent blog post looks into the difference between four-wheel and all-wheel drive, as well as some of the top car brands for this type of driver. For further assistance, contact our professional team at Desmeules Chrysler car dealership.
When you're a teenager, driving is a major step toward being more independent, this is especially the case when they get to college age. However, how can you be sure that they are safe and comfortable while on the road?
Canada’s unique climate and road conditions can change how we look at a great car. Many of the roads here are notorious for being difficult to navigate and, when coupled with the extreme weather we're all used to, it can be a bit worrying for parents.
Fear not, we’re here to tell you the best type of cars to buy for teenagers and students.
Should You Buy a Four or All-Wheel Drive For Students and Teenagers?
It might not surprise you that a four-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive might be better for teen drivers, especially those living in more rural parts of the Great White North.If you've been a driver for a few years, and bought several cars in your time, you've likely come across the terms four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), but what do they actually mean?
What is Four-Wheel Drive?
Cars with four-wheel drive differ from most vehicles on the road. Most cars you will see on your daily commute will use the front two wheels to pull the car along, while the back two are pulled with it.However, a four-wheel drive vehicle can use all four wheels if needed. For example, a vehicle with 4WD capabilities may use just the front two wheels on a regular road but switch to using all four on rougher terrain.
This allows for much better control in these situations, as all wheels are working together to move the car. The back wheels are synced with the front so that all are moving as one.
What is All-Wheel Drive?
At first glance, this may sound the same as 4WD, but AWD differs in that both the front and back wheels can be used differently depending on the driver's needs.For example, if you're on a difficult road and the car is struggling, an AWD vehicle will increase power to certain wheels so that the car can move more smoothly.
Instead of being synced, both the back and front wheels are connected in a way that allows for each wheel to be powered accordingly.
What to Look For When Buying a Car
What the average car buyer wants and what a young driver needs in a vehicle can be very different. There are a number of things to consider when buying a car for this demographic:Affordability
This is likely their first or, maybe second, car, and therefore it's unlikely that there will be as much money being spent as someone buying a car later in life.When it comes to finding affordable cars for teens, a pre owned vehicle is certainly the best way to go. There are many reasons to buy a used vehicle, but affordability is certainly one of the biggest.
Reliability
Every driver wants a reliable car but when buying for a teenager or student. Having a car that they are confident won't fail them when they need it most is crucial in those early years of driving. They may not have the funds to make last-minute repairs or fear that they might break down in more rural areas.While no car is immune from these issues, some are certainly more reliable than others i.e. a sports car is unlikely to be the best choice.
Finding a dealership that you trust is vital in this search. One that has earned good ratings and is local to you is a great place to start. For example, those living in Quebec may want to find a great Car Dealership in Laval and stick with them.
Repairability
Speaking of your dealership, if something was to happen to the car, you want it to be as repairable as possible.This means choosing a dealership that you trust to make any amends needed, as well as picking a car that has parts that aren't difficult for dealerships and garages to find.
What Type of Car to Choose
Chrysler
It's almost impossible to be a driver, or anyone, in North America without coming across a few Chryslers in your time.Chryslers come in all shapes and sizes, with some of them being the perfect vehicle for the teenager or student in your life. Part of this is due to them making for an excellent used vehicle.
From small hybrid cars that will get them from A to B to bigger vehicles that will help in more rural spots, there is a Chrysler out there for anyone.
Jeep
When buying a vehicle for a teenager or student, safety is likely one of the most important considerations.And with the Jeep Compass earning a Top Safety Pick award in 2022, it's certainly a manufacturer that takes staying safe on the road seriously.
Jeeps are known for offering a variety of four-wheel drive vehicles and can really be tailored depending on the driver's needs. Will they be driving in the snow often? Is the car needed for long-haul drives?
For almost anyone living in Canada, the answer to both these questions is probably a solid yes. Jeep has vehicles that are designed for just that, as well as smaller cars fit for other needs.
Dodge
Dodge is an American car brand known for vehicles with lots of horsepower, with all-wheel drive available in a great number of their models.Though this may not be what you're looking for when buying for a teenager or student, they also make a number of smaller vehicles that may be ideal.
Cars like the Dodge Dart could be just what you're looking for in terms of an economical yet reliable vehicle.
RAM
RAM is not known for making small cars, but for those students or teenagers that need something bigger, it might just be the ideal car brand for them.Specializing in trucks, most RAM vehicles have a lot of external storage and are able to manage harsh roads and difficult climates with ease.
Choose The Right Car For a Student or Teenager, Visit Our Car Dealership in Laval Today!
While different cars offer unique benefits to this type of driver, the best car for a teenager or student is ultimately the safest and the one within budget.In this part of the world, students and teenagers need more power beneath the hood than those in other countries. Driving in Canada is a completely different ballgame compared to other parts of the globe, and therefore looking at cars with 4WD or AWD might be worthwhile.
Having said that, what works for one student or teen may not work for another, and it's a matter of figuring this out. Start this exciting journey with them and visit our car dealership in Laval to find their dream car today! Our friendly team can help you with everything from finding the perfect car to financing your teen’s new car. Get in touch today.