For many families, finding the right car for a teen driver can be stressful. Not only do you want a vehicle that is safe and reliable, but you also need one that is affordable to insure. SUVs are a popular choice for young drivers because of their safety features, higher driving position, and versatility. However, some SUVs can be expensive to insure, which makes it important to choose carefully.
This 2025 guide will help you discover the cheapest SUVs to insure for teen drivers in the USA. We will also explain why certain SUVs have lower insurance premiums, what features to look for, and how to save even more on car insurance for young drivers.
Why SUVs Are a Good Option for Teen Drivers in the USA.
When parents or guardians are shopping for a teen driver, safety and affordability are usually the top priorities. SUVs meet these needs because:
-
They have higher safety ratings: Modern SUVs are equipped with advanced safety technology, such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
-
They offer better visibility: Teen drivers can see more of the road thanks to the elevated seating position.
-
They provide more space: Families appreciate the extra room for passengers and luggage.
-
All-weather capability: Many SUVs come with all-wheel drive, which is helpful in bad weather conditions.
While insurance rates for teens are usually high, some compact and mid-sized SUVs are much cheaper to insure compared to sports cars or large luxury SUVs.
Factors That Affect Insurance Costs for Teen Drivers in the USA.
Before looking at the list of cheapest SUVs, it’s important to understand the factors that affect insurance rates for teen drivers.
1. Vehicle Safety Ratings
Insurers favor vehicles with strong safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).
2. Repair and Replacement Costs
Cheaper-to-repair vehicles cost less to insure. SUVs with affordable parts and good reliability help lower premiums.
3. Size and Performance
Compact and mid-size SUVs with moderate horsepower are less risky than large, powerful SUVs or sports cars.
4. Theft Rates
Vehicles that are frequently stolen tend to have higher premiums.
5. Teen Driver Profile
Age, location, driving experience, and whether the teen has completed a driver’s education course can impact insurance costs.
Summary Table: Cheapest SUVs to Insure for Teen Drivers in the USA (2025)
Here is a quick comparison of the top SUVs with the lowest estimated annual insurance costs for teen drivers:
| Rank | SUV Model | Starting Price (Approx) | Safety Rating (NHTSA/IIHS) | Estimated Annual Premium (Teen Drivers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda HR-V | $25,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,720 |
| 2 | Subaru Crosstrek | $25,500 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick+ | $1,750 |
| 3 | Hyundai Kona | $24,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,730 |
| 4 | Toyota Corolla Cross | $26,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,740 |
| 5 | Kia Seltos | $25,000 | 4-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,725 |
| 6 | Mazda CX-30 | $27,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick+ | $1,760 |
| 7 | Chevrolet Trailblazer | $24,500 | 4-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,735 |
| 8 | Nissan Rogue | $28,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,770 |
| 9 | Volkswagen Taos | $26,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick | $1,750 |
| 10 | Subaru Forester | $29,000 | 5-Star / Top Safety Pick+ | $1,780 |
Top 10 Cheapest SUVs to Insure for Teen Drivers in the USA (Detailed Reviews)
1. Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V continues to be one of the most affordable SUVs to insure for teen drivers.
Key Features:
-
Excellent reliability and resale value.
-
Standard Honda Sensing safety suite (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking).
-
Spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
The HR-V’s strong safety record and low repair costs make it a great choice for teens.
2. Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek offers all-wheel drive and rugged styling, making it perfect for young drivers in areas with snow or rough roads.
Key Features:
-
Standard all-wheel drive.
-
High ground clearance and comfortable ride.
-
Advanced EyeSight driver assist features.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
The Crosstrek’s excellent crash test scores and affordability keep premiums low.
3. Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona is stylish and fun to drive, while still affordable to insure.
Key Features:
-
Great fuel economy (up to 35 mpg highway).
-
Standard driver assistance features.
-
Long warranty (5-year/60,000 miles).
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
The Kona’s affordability and low theft rates make it cost-effective to insure for teen drivers.
4. Toyota Corolla Cross
This SUV takes everything people love about the Corolla sedan and adds more space and versatility.
Key Features:
-
Strong reliability and low maintenance costs.
-
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard.
-
Practical for families.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low repair costs helps reduce premiums.
5. Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos is an excellent budget-friendly SUV for teens.
Key Features:
-
Stylish design and roomy interior.
-
Good infotainment system and safety ratings.
-
Long warranty (10-year/100,000 miles).
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
Its affordability and strong safety features keep insurance premiums low.
6. Mazda CX-30
Mazda’s CX-30 blends sharp styling with solid handling and premium-like interior quality.
Key Features:
-
Fun to drive yet safe.
-
High-quality cabin.
-
Many safety features included standard.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
Mazda’s high safety ratings and good reliability history make it an affordable SUV to insure.
7. Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is perfect for teens who want something practical yet stylish.
Key Features:
-
User-friendly technology.
-
Good cargo space for its size.
-
Many standard driver assistance features.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
The Trailblazer’s affordable repair costs and popularity among families help keep premiums down.
8. Nissan Rogue
The Rogue is one of Nissan’s best-selling models, and for good reason.
Key Features:
-
Comfortable ride with roomy interior.
-
Standard Safety Shield 360 suite.
-
Excellent fuel economy.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
Strong crash test scores and moderate repair costs make it a solid option for teen drivers.
9. Volkswagen Taos
The VW Taos is an affordable SUV with a touch of European style.
Key Features:
-
Large interior for a small SUV.
-
Intuitive infotainment system.
-
Good fuel economy and standard safety features.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
Its affordable price and low theft rates keep insurance premiums lower than average.
10. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is a larger option for families who want extra space.
Key Features:
-
Standard all-wheel drive.
-
Excellent visibility for new drivers.
-
Advanced EyeSight driver assist system.
Why Insurance is Cheaper:
The Forester’s long-standing reputation for safety and reliability helps make it affordable to insure.
Tips to Lower Insurance Premiums for Teen Drivers in the USA.
Even if you choose a cheap SUV to insure, teen insurance rates are usually high. Here are some tips to reduce costs:
-
Add the teen to a family policy: It is usually cheaper than buying a separate policy.
-
Complete a driver’s education course: Many insurers offer discounts.
-
Maintain good grades: Teens with a B average or higher often qualify for lower rates.
-
Choose higher deductibles: This can reduce monthly premiums, but make sure you can cover the deductible in case of an accident.
-
Install telematics devices: Some insurers offer usage-based discounts for safe driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest SUV to insure for a teen driver in 2025?
The Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, and Hyundai Kona are among the cheapest SUVs to insure because of their safety ratings and low repair costs.
2. Are SUVs more expensive to insure for teens than sedans?
In general, yes. SUVs are larger and can cost more to repair. However, many compact SUVs are cheaper to insure than sports cars or luxury vehicles.
3. Should I buy a new or used SUV for my teen?
A certified pre-owned SUV can offer great value. It’s less expensive than a new model but still has modern safety features and warranty coverage.
4. Do all-wheel drive SUVs cost more to insure?
Not necessarily. While all-wheel drive vehicles can be more expensive to repair, insurance costs are often offset by better safety ratings.
5. How can I get the lowest insurance rate for my teen driver?
Choose a safe SUV, take advantage of good student discounts, and add your teen to your family policy.
6. Is it worth buying a larger SUV for a teen driver?
Not always. Larger SUVs can be harder for new drivers to handle and may be more expensive to insure. Compact SUVs are usually the best balance of safety and affordability.
7. Are hybrid SUVs more expensive to insure for teens?
Some hybrid SUVs can be slightly more expensive to insure due to higher repair costs, but many also benefit from good safety ratings and reliability.
Conclusion: Find the Right SUV for Your Teen Driver in the USA.
Choosing the cheapest SUV to insure for teen drivers in 2025 doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or quality. Models like the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Hyundai Kona offer advanced safety features, reliability, and affordable insurance premiums.
Next Steps:
-
Narrow down your top SUV choices from the list above.
-
Get insurance quotes for each model.
-
Take advantage of discounts for good grades, driver education, and safe driving.
By choosing wisely, you can keep your teen driver safe while keeping costs manageable.