Need a car for school? Consumer Reports has some advice

For college students shopping for a vehicle to take to school, Consumer Reports has some advice -- pick cars with safety features such as electronic stability control, curtain air bags and good crash-test results. And take note, the same vehicle is good for your grandparents.

"Often parents think that putting their child in the biggest car is the safest thing they can do, but that's not so,"said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports Automotive Test Center in East Haddam, Conn. "Teens are the most inexperienced drivers on the road, so you want to make sure they're driving something that handles well, is agile and has as many safety features as possible -- especially electronic stability control."

In the Consumer Reports magazine hitting the stands Tuesday, the product testing and rating organization says that models that are desirable for younger drivers are also recommended for older drivers.

All the models on Consumer Reports' lists have at least average reliability and are CR Recommended vehicles.

Consumer Reports named only one car suitable for both driver types -- the Honda Accord.

"When it comes to finding the right cars for seniors, we recommend vehicles that offer easy access, good visibility, a roomy driving position and comfortable seats," Champion added.

Good models for young drivers

Electronic stability control is standard or optional starting on these vehicles.

Small sedans: Hyundai Elantra SE, 2008 to 2010; Mazda3, 2007 to present; Scion xB 2008 to present.

Midsized sedans: Acura TSX, 2004 to present; Honda Accord, 2008 to present; Kia Optima, 2007 to present.

Small SUVs: Honda CR-V, 2005 to present; Nissan Rogue, 2008 to present.

Good models for senior drivers

Minivans: Honda Odyssey

Small SUV: Subaru Forester XTLimited

Upscale sedan: Hyundai Azera

Family sedan: Honda Accord

Microvan: Kia Rondo