6. 2006 Audi A4/S4

Why young drivers like it: The showy A4 Cabriolet would surely capture eyes in the student parking lot. But up close, it’s the details of the A4 that resonate — the interior and exterior fit and finish are among the best in the entry-level luxury segment. A plethora of body styles, engines and powertrains ensure a flavor for every taste, including those who crave speed (the S4 is a beast).

What mom and dad think: Solid engineering, stable handling and good safety ratings should win them over. Plus, if they buy you the S4 Avant wagon, then they can have their two-seater Mercedes-Benz SL and just power your ride when they need more than two seats or room for bulky cargo. The A4 earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Silver Top Safety Pick for “good” frontal offset crash and side-impact safety.