Best Used Cars for New Drivers: Top 5 in Quincy

New driver in the house? Let’s keep it simple. You want a car that’s safe, easy to drive, cheap to own, and won’t guzzle gas.

Quincy is located in Illinois, making it important to consider local options and conditions. For new drivers and their families, safety matters are a top priority, so we’ve highlighted vehicles with strong safety ratings and features.

We curated five used-car MVPs you can actually find around Quincy, IL, with a special focus on Honda (hi, that’s us), plus a couple of non-Honda all-stars for balance.

Shopping for a first car can feel overwhelming, especially when safety and cost are at the top of every parent’s wish list. That’s where used cars come in—they offer a smart combination of value, reliability, and the latest safety features without the sticker shock of new vehicles. For teen drivers and young drivers, finding the right car means looking beyond just price tags. It’s about choosing vehicles with proven safety features like standard automatic emergency braking, stability control, and good or acceptable ratings in crash prevention tests, including the driver-side small overlap test.

Trusted sources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports (CR) regularly highlight the best used cars for new drivers, focusing on models that earn advanced or superior ratings for crash prevention and have headlights rated good or acceptable. These organizations also consider important factors like reliability, maintenance costs, and insurance prices—key criteria for families working within a budget.

The good news? Many used cars from recent model years come equipped with advanced safety features once reserved for new vehicles, making it easier than ever to find a vehicle that checks all the boxes: safety, affordability, and peace of mind. By doing a little research and focusing on cars with strong IIHS and Consumer Reports scores, parents and teens can confidently choose a used car that’s ready for whatever Quincy roads (and life) throw their way.

• Safe: specifically selected for strong crash-test records and available driver-assist features.
• Easy: good visibility, small footprint, simple controls.
• Affordable: friendly insurance + solid reliability = lower total cost.
• Practical: real-world space, fuel efficiency, year-round drivability.

Why it’s great for new drivers:

• Stable, predictable handling and easy steering = confidence.
• Brakes are strong and reliable, providing excellent stopping power and safety.
• Backup camera standard on most years; Honda Sensing® driver assists available on many trims (common on newer years).
• The Civic has received good or acceptable ratings in IIHS safety tests, making it a safer choice for teens and families.
• Excellent fuel economy for daily Quincy runs and college commutes.

Smart shopping tips: Look for LX or EX trims for value; check for documented maintenance and avoid heavily modified cars.

Good for: Teens, students, anyone wanting “set-it-and-forget-it” reliability.

Why it’s great for new drivers:

• Standard AWD on most models = extra traction in rain/snow.
• Calm, planted feel inspires confidence for beginners.
• EyeSight® driver-assist available on many CVT-equipped trims.
• Earns good ratings in IIHS safety tests, making it a safe pick for new and teen drivers. 

Good for: Families who want winter-friendly stability without going full SUV.

CPO Hondas at Kunes Honda of Quincy come with manufacturer-backed inspections and warranties, ensuring a positive certified pre-owned (CPO) buying experience at our dealership. As one of the top dealerships in the area for certified used cars, Kunes Honda stands out for its wide selection and commitment to customer satisfaction. Our dealer's employees are known for their professionalism and excellent customer service, making your visit enjoyable and stress-free. The dealership offers a range of accessories to customize your CPO vehicle, enhancing both functionality and appearance. The sale and purchase process for CPO vehicles at our dealership is straightforward, with transparent pricing, financing options, and guidance every step of the way. For more information about CPO vehicles or to start your purchase, contact our dealership today. Translation: peace of mind for parents and new drivers. **Keywords to hit:**Certified pre-owned Honda Quincy, Kunes Honda used cars

• Safety tech: Look for features like automatic emergency braking, lane assist, and a backup camera.
• Insurance quote first: Different models cost different amounts to insure—check before you buy.
• Service history: A clean, documented history > mystery car.
• Test visibility: Make sure mirrors, seating height, and blind spots feel comfy.
• Avoid “too spicy” power: Keep it calm while you’re building skills.
• Consider CPO: Extra coverage = less stress.
• Review payment estimates: Check estimated vehicle prices and monthly payments before making a decision.
• Factor in taxes: Remember that taxes, based on your ZIP code and local fees, are part of the total cost.
• Think about owning: Consider the long-term benefits and satisfaction of owning a reliable used car.

Ready to compare Civic vs. Fit vs. HR-V (and more) in person? Mazda models, such as the Mazda 3, are also available for comparison. Swing by Kunes Honda of Quincy for test drives, trade-ins, and student-friendly financing. Visitors can access information about original vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention test results at the dealership, and we provide access to crash prevention test data for all vehicles on the lot. We’ll help you lock in a car that’s safe, affordable, and easy to live with.