re: AWD vs FWD vehicles

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what if you know this vehicle will end up being driven by your child? would this feature make you feel better about them handling adverse conditions?

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Not sure what you are getting your child, but it sounds like you are concerned with safety (as you should be). But a used Corolla, Camry, Malibu, or Jetta is a great vehicle for a 16-17 year old. Get the smallest, slowest engine and make sure the tires and brakes are in good shape. The car needs to be new enough to be reliable and low maintenance, but not so nice that they worry about parking it in the street or getting it scratched.

AWD isn't really necessary unless they are taking it up north for school. But if you want AWD, the Subaru Impreza, Legacy, and Outback are excellent choices. Know that the flat four engines are known to burn a little oil as they go beyond 75,000 miles - so you'll need to teach them how to add oil occasionally. I think the Corolla can be had with AWD. Nearly all the compact SUVs like the CR-V, Equinox, and Rav4 can be had with AWD too - they all have more conventional engines that burn less oil than a Subaru.