4. 2006 Volvo S40

Why young drivers like it: Smart kids will sell their parents on Volvo’s reputation for safety, but what they’re really after is this sedan’s standout styling. The interior highlights are distinctly Scandinavian, with a clean, uncluttered design capped by a unique super-thin, floating console with intuitive controls. The punchy base engine and optional turbocharged engines complement its lively handling dynamics.

What mom and dad think: You might have to fend off the “’rents” who might be jealous of your stylish S40, which sacrifices nothing in the way of convenience for the sake of good looks. Plus, tests have proven that this car is a safe bet: It received a “good” and “best pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on a frontal offset crash test. The S40 also received the Institute’s highest rating on whiplash protection.