I had mixed emotions when I had my driving lesson. Learning to drive for me was exciting, although I won’t deny the fact that it was a bit scary too. My dad was my first teacher before I finally I took a short course driving lesson. Anyway, you may be wondering why I wrote about first time driving. Well, my purpose here is to actually introduce a set of vehicle models perfect for the first timers who are anxious and excited to drive. These models are recommended for neophyte drivers because of their considerable qualities and features. Basically, first-time drivers need safe and dependable transportation that won’t break the bank. Preferably, you may consider sedans, coupes, hatchbacks, convertibles, SUVs and cab pickup since they cost less than $20, 000.

I want to share an author’s choice from cars.com. Included in the criteria are the safety features, exterior styling, value and interior comfort. From his choices, I got the first five and here they are.

1. Ford Escape. Updated for 2008 with new styling, the five-seat Ford Escape is an affordable small SUV. It features a number of important safety features — antilock brakes, side curtain airbags and Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability system with Roll Stability Control — that come standard. The Escape can have either a fuel-efficient four-cylinder or a 200-horsepower V-6.

2. The 2008 Honda Civic. On a car review on cars.com, it was revealed that whether you’re a concerned parent or a sensible young person looking for a first car, the Civic can’t be beat. It’s safe, reliable, gets good mileage, retains its value and has a lot of standard features. Heck, even if you’re slightly less responsible, the Civic has sporty handling and a sharp-looking exterior in coupe and sedan models. The interior is futuristic and well made, and the doors shut with a solid thunk. The Civic is one of the best cars on the market for any driver; first-timers certainly won’t go wrong with it.

3. Ford Escape 2008. Updated for 2008 with new styling, the five-seat Ford Escape is an affordable small SUV. It features a number of important safety features — antilock brakes, side curtain airbags and Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability system with Roll Stability Control — that come standard. The Escape can have either a fuel-efficient four-cylinder or a 200-horsepower V-6.

4. Hyundai Sonata 2008. A long list of standard features — like air conditioning, cruise control, antilock brakes, side curtain airbags and an electronic stability system — and a low starting price make Hyundai’s Sonata a sensible choice. Both engine choices (four-cylinder or V-6) offer good fuel economy, and the Sonata has a five-year/60,000-mile warranty with five years of roadside assistance.

5. Mini Cooper. The Cooper will easily stand out from the sea of Civics and Mustangs in the high-school parking lot: It’s a Mini, stupid. Pick the base model over the 172-hp Cooper S hatchback, which is pricier and may have too much power (remember, this is a lightweight car) for a first-time driver. Though it’s at an inherent disadvantage in a collision with larger cars, the Cooper comes standard with six airbags and antilock brakes. Parents should appreciate the excellent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal crash-test ratings, too. Those in sunnier parts of the country might also consider the Cooper convertible.

As you can see the year model, these models are new. This means that besides they provide ideal rides for first time drivers, they are also equipped with modern features and components for high performance and dependability.

So welcome to the car world and enjoy your time in the process of learning. Remember that the safest ride is the best ride.