Top 5 2008 Cars For Teens Under $20,000

2008 Honda Fit

What we think
The Fit is named the Fit for a reason: this car will work for all your teen's needs. The rear seats fold up in multiple directions, giving the interior a versatility unmatched by cars in this price range. The Fit Sport offers an automatic transmission with paddle shifters, making it even more fun to drive. Check out the mpg too; your teen will thank you for the gas money savings.

At a glance
MSRP: $13,950 - $15,270
Engine and Drivetrain: 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine sporting 109 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque; front-wheel drive.
MPG: 28 City / 34 Hwy

2008 Ford Focus

What we think
With amazing safety ratings, this small car is more like a tank in disguise. Couple its protective nature with its aggressive new styling, and you're looking at a knockout competitor in this class. Available in a coupe or sedan, the Focus looks cool as the price stays within your budget.

At a glance
MSRP: $14,395 - $16,925
Engine and Drivetrain: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque; front-wheel drive.
MPG: 24 City / 35 Hwy

2008 Mazda3

What we think:
On the pricier end of this list, the Mazda3 is worth the little extra cash. A roomy exterior will hold the mountains of textbooks or friends that your teen carts around. Their friends might be further impressed by the sleek interior, while you'll be impressed by the safety features and all-around functionality of the car.

At a glance:
MSRP: $18,560
Engine and Drivetrain: 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque; front-wheel drive.
MPG: 22 City / 29 Hwy

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit

What we think
Don't be fooled by the cutesy name, this Rabbit has bite. Its powerful drive will appease the most particular teen, and it has practical accessories like a standard auxiliary jack for their mp3 players and an air-conditioned center consol for after-school snacks. The Rabbit also includes your worry-free features like tons of airbags, ABS and 4-year/50,000 mile roadside assistance.

At a glance
MSRP: $15,600
Engine and Drivetrain: 2.5-liter, 5-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque; front-wheel drive.
MPG: 22 City / 29 Hwy

2008 Scion tC

What we think
Perfect for the brand-conscious teen, but the tC has all the safety features to satisfy a parent. Easy to drive and sporty, with amenities like folding rear seats and a panorama moonroof, you can't go wrong with this car.

At a glance
MSRP: $17,620 - $18,420
Engine and Drivetrain: 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque; front-wheel drive.
MPG: 20 City / 27 Hwy