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Is a Lexus a good first car?

My grandson is about to get his license, and he’s mentioned how badly he wants to drive a Lexus. He’s been working really hard in school, so I want to surprise him with his dream car. I want to make sure it’s a good investment, though. Do Lexus vehicles make good first cars?

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Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
That depends. If you’re looking for quality and next-level reliability, a Lexus makes a great first car. However, there are a few factors to consider. Let’s look at some pros and cons:
Pros:
  • Dependability. Lexus models regularly rank near the top of the list when it comes to reliable vehicles, which will provide some peace of mind with your teen behind the wheel.
  • Ownership costs. They may not be the cheapest car in town, but Lexus vehicles routinely have some of the lowest maintenance costs.
  • Options. Whether you’re looking for a decent used model or a brand new one, a gas-powered engine or eco-friendly hybrid, or a sedan or SUV—Lexus’ long history of excellence gives you plenty of choices to sort through.
  • Safety. When you’ve got precious cargo in the driver’s seat, safety is a priority. Luckily,
    Lexus gets great safety ratings
    , and recent models come with a robust array of active safety features.
Cons:
  • Price tag. It’s no secret that luxury cars like Lexus models cost a pretty penny, and trusting a new driver with that much of an expense could be a bigger risk than you’re willing to take.
  • Insurance. Luxury vehilcles come with higher premiums, and
    Lexus car insurance
    is no different. Add that to the already-expensive
    teen driver premiums
    and your budget may be tighter than you thought.
If cost isn’t an issue, though, Lexus models can make excellent first cars. You should also be able to find some great used options—just be sure to research the specific model and year before signing on the dotted line. Here are some of the best (new or used!) models for first-time drivers:
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