The Best Ford First Cars: Top Picks for Students, Teens, and New Drivers
Smart Starts: Ford’s Best First Cars for Young Drivers
When it comes to your first car, safety, reliability, and affordability top the list. At J.C. Lewis Ford Statesboro, we understand the importance of choosing trusted Ford cars for teens and new drivers, offering options that combine modern safety tech, efficient performance, and smart design.
In this guide, we’ll help you explore the best first cars Ford has to offer, including the best starter cars for new drivers, and the best Ford cars for college students that deliver peace of mind on every mile.
Top Picks: Best Ford First Cars ⭐
Reliable, Affordable, and Teen-Approved
When choosing from the best first cars, the ideal ride blends safety, simplicity, and versatility. Ford offers a wide range of models that check all the boxes for teens, students, and first-time drivers, from compact cars to capable SUVs and trucks.
Compact comfort with SUV versatility.
The Escape is a longtime favorite for families and students alike. It’s roomy, easy to drive, and loaded with technology that promotes safe, confident driving.
Standard Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist features, including Blind Spot Monitoring and Automatic Emergency Braking
Room for five with up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space
Available AWD and strong fuel economy (up to 34 mpg highway)
Smart infotainment with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and wireless charging
Best for: These Ford cars for teens fit those who want a flexible compact SUV with safety and style.
Why Choose a Ford as Your First Car?
Whether you're a teen just getting your license, a student commuting to college, or a parent helping your child find their first ride, Ford offers new and used options that are smart, safe, and budget-friendly. Ford vehicles offer:
Top safety ratings and advanced driver-assist features like Co-Pilot360™, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring—must-haves for new or less experienced drivers
Fuel-efficient engines and hybrid options that help students save at the pump
Affordable ownership costs, thanks to widely available parts and Ford's dependable service network
Practical size and maneuverability, making them ideal for first-time drivers navigating city traffic, tight parking lots, or campus roads
A broad lineup of vehicles, from compact hatchbacks to versatile SUVs and even hybrid pickups, so there’s something for every lifestyle and budget
Best Ford Cars for College Students 🎓
Practical, Affordable, and Ready for Campus Life
When it comes to college driving, students need a car that can juggle packed schedules, weekend getaways, and tight parking lots while staying affordable and efficient. That’s why Ford offers some of the best first cars that combine low maintenance costs, great mileage, and just the right mix of tech and versatility.
Ford Escape
Spacious, safe, and ideal for weekend warriors.
The Escape is a compact SUV with flexible cargo space and comfortable seating; perfect for road trips home, group study sessions, or carrying gear across campus.
Available all-wheel drive for confidence in all weather
Standard Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist features
Up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded
Excellent fuel economy for a crossover (up to 34 mpg highway)
Ideal for: Students who want the practicality of an SUV without going full-size.
Ford Maverick
Hybrid-powered and built to multitask.
One of the best Ford cars for college students today, the Maverick combines the utility of a pickup with the drivability of a compact car. Its standard hybrid engine makes it one of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the market.
42 mpg city with standard full hybrid engine
Compact size makes it easy to park on campus
4.5-ft bed perfect for gear, bikes, or moving-day boxes
Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and FordPass™ standard
Ideal for: Students who want Ford cars for teens that can do it all—commute, haul, and save on gas.
Ford Explorer
Spacious, safe, and built for growing independence.
While it’s a midsize SUV, the 2025 Ford Explorer is still a smart choice for families shopping for the best first cars. It’s perfect for students who need extra space or plan to drive with siblings or roommates.
Seats up to seven passengers, great for ride-sharing or group outings
Available 2.3L EcoBoost® engine balances power and fuel efficiency
Standard Co-Pilot360™ with Blind Spot Info System, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking
Up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded
Ideal for: Teens or college students who share a car with family or need more space for travel, activities, or future moves.
Safety You Can Trust
Peace of Mind for Every New Driver
When choosing from the best starter cars for new drivers, safety is a must. That’s why Ford puts advanced driver-assist technology front and center across its lineup. These features are a key reason models like the Escape and Maverick are often named among the best first cars.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Uses forward-facing sensors to detect potential collisions and can apply the brakes if you don’t react in time. Especially helpful in city traffic, where distractions and quick stops are common.
Safety Fact: AEB can reduce rear-end crashes by up to 43%, according to IIHS studies.
📝 Before You Drive: Top Tips for Parents & Students
Choosing from the best first cars on our lot is just the beginning. To help parents and new drivers feel more confident, we’ve gathered a few pointers to help you make a smarter, safer decision.
Consider Certified Pre-Owned: Ford CPO vehicles come with inspections, warranty coverage, and lower price points.
Use MyKey: Program safe-driving limits and seatbelt reminders.
Opt for Safety Features: Co-Pilot360, AEB, and lane assistance are especially helpful for new drivers.
Factor Total Cost: Look at insurance, fuel, and maintenance—some models are easier on the budget.
Test Drive Multiple Models at J.C. Lewis Ford Statesboro to get a feel for size and comfort. Our team is here to help!
Ready to Shop? Let’s Find Your First Ford
At J.C. Lewis Ford Statesboro, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of the best first cars for new drivers, teens, and college-bound students. Whether you’re considering a brand-new model or a certified pre-owned vehicle, our team is here to guide you through every step.
Browse online or stop by our showroom to compare our top Ford cars for teens, ask questions, and get personalized recommendations based on safety, budget, and lifestyle.
