What are the safest cars for teen drivers?

(NBC) - We're headed into the high school graduation season, but a big gift from their parents could do more harm than good.

Many teens often get a new car as a gift from their parents, but which one is the right one?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has just published a list of the safest used cars for teen drivers.

"Teen drivers are the riskiest drivers on the road. Unfortunately, our research shows they are often driving some of the least safe vehicles in the market," said IIHS Vice President of Research David Zuby. "The good news about our list is that we've got some fairly affordable vehicles that meet pretty high safety criteria." 

He says cars in general have gotten safer over the years and that has trickled down to the used car market.

Other safety experts are focusing on teenage conduct when behind the wheel.

"Limiting the number of passengers is a life-saver," said President of the National Safety Council Deborah Hersman. "It's better for teens to drive three teens in three separate cars than putting all three of them in one car with that new driver."

She says it's important for parents to remain engaged with their teenage driver. 

"Drive with your teen, ride with them, even after they get their license, because they're still inexperienced and they still need you to coach them," said Hersman.

Top IIHS Recommended Cars For Teens

Full list here.

Courtesy: NBC News Channel