Nine Subaru Models Named Among the Best Vehicles for Teen Drivers in 2026

June 10th, 2026 by
2025 Subaru Forester

If you’re searching for the best vehicle for a new driver in the Tulsa area, Subaru continues to stand out as one of the safest and smartest choices on the road.

Subaru of America recently announced that nine Subaru models have earned spots on the 2026 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports Teen Driver Vehicle Recommendation List. These recommendations are based on extensive evaluations of safety, reliability, affordability, emergency handling, braking performance, and overall ownership experience.

For families in Broken Arrow, Tulsa, Owasso, Bixby, Jenks, and throughout Oklahoma, these awards reinforce what Subaru owners have known for years: Subaru vehicles are built to help keep drivers safe and confident behind the wheel.

IIHS & Consumer Reports “Best Choice” Used Vehicles

The following Subaru models earned the highest recommendation level for teen drivers:

  • Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid (2019-2023)
  • Subaru Legacy (2020-2025)
  • Subaru Outback (2020-2025)
  • Subaru Forester (2019-2025)
  • Subaru Solterra (2023-2025)

IIHS & Consumer Reports “Good Choice” Used Vehicles

Additional Subaru models receiving recommendations include:

  • Subaru Impreza Sedan and Hatchback (2014-2025)
  • Subaru Crosstrek (2016-2025)
  • Subaru Legacy (2015-2019)

Recommended New Vehicle

  • 2026 Subaru Ascent

Why Subaru Vehicles Are Great for New Drivers

The IIHS and Consumer Reports recommendations focus on vehicles that offer strong safety performance while remaining practical and affordable for families. Many Subaru vehicles come standard with features that parents appreciate, including available EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and advanced safety systems designed to help drivers avoid accidents before they happen. To qualify, vehicles must demonstrate:

  • Strong crash test performance
  • Excellent emergency handling and braking capability
  • Easy-to-use controls and technology
  • High reliability ratings
  • Advanced driver-assistance features
  • Proven safety records

Subaru Continues to Lead the Industry in Safety

Subaru’s commitment to safety extends far beyond this year’s teen driver recommendations. As of March 2026, Subaru has earned **78 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards since 2013**, more than many competing brands. Subaru was also recently named **Consumer Reports’ Best Overall Automotive Brand for the second consecutive year**. These accolades reflect Subaru’s ongoing dedication to building vehicles that deliver safety, capability, and long-term value.

Shop Safe Subaru Vehicles at Ferguson Subaru

Whether you’re buying a first vehicle for a teen driver, upgrading your family SUV, or searching for a dependable pre-owned vehicle, Ferguson Subaru is proud to offer a wide selection of new and used Subaru models.

Our team is here to help drivers throughout Broken Arrow, Tulsa, Owasso, Bixby, Jenks, and the surrounding communities find a vehicle that fits their needs and budget. Visit Ferguson Subaru today to explore our inventory of award-winning Subaru vehicles and discover why so many Oklahoma families trust Subaru for safety, reliability, and peace of mind.


The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research and evaluation and through education of consumers, policymakers and safety professionals. IIHS is wholly supported by auto insurers. For more information from IIHS, go to iihs.org.

Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports is a nonprofit membership organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. For more information from CR, go to consumerreports.org.

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