Top Safety Features Parents Should Look for in a Teen’s First Toyota

Choosing a first car for your teen isn’t just about price or style — it’s about peace of mind. For most parents, safety tops the list of priorities when handing over that first set of keys. The good news? Toyota has built a reputation for safety across its entire lineup — whether you’re buying new or used.

Here are the top safety features we recommend parents look for when shopping for a teen’s first Toyota.

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS)

Nearly every Toyota from 2018 and newer comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to prevent accidents before they happen. Features vary slightly by model year, but here are a few must-haves:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection — Warns the driver and can apply brakes automatically if a collision is likely.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist — Alerts the driver if they start to drift without signaling, and can gently steer the car back into its lane.
• Automatic High Beams — Automatically toggles between high and low beams for better visibility without blinding other drivers.
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control — Maintains a safe following distance on the highway, reducing the need for constant braking and accelerating.

Blind Spot Monitor & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

These features provide an extra set of eyes where teen drivers need them most — in their blind spots and when backing out of tight parking spaces. Many Toyota models offer these as standard or optional features.

Backup Camera (Standard Since 2018)

A backup camera is a non-negotiable for new drivers. The good news is all new Toyotas — and even used models from 2018 forward — come standard with one.

Star Safety System

Toyota’s Star Safety System is built into every model and includes important stability control features like Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Traction Control (TRAC), and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) — all working together to keep the vehicle stable and under control.

Whether you’re buying a brand-new Toyota Corolla or a Certified Pre-Owned RAV4, Toyota’s commitment to safety makes it one of the smartest choices for teen drivers. Looking for more recommendations? Check out our original blog on The Best Toyota Vehicles for Teens & Young Adults for great options that still hold up today.

Tags: teen drivers
Posted in Car Buying Guide | No Comments »