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Would you recommend the Ford Fiesta as a first car for my teenager and what year model in particular?
Price range around $12k - thanks

In this price range, there are some good options for you. The current model Fiesta is a great car but unfortunately, it wasn't launched until about 2009 and so falls outside the price bracket. While the earlier Fiesta is perfectly OK, there are perhaps some better options.
The Suzuki Swift has been the best seller in the bracket for many years. Its popularity is due to it being a very good, reliable and stylish little car, and it's really the one we'd recommend very highly. Other options such as the Toyota Yaris/Vitz or Mazda Demio would be worth considering.
Ideally, go for as low a mileage as possible and look for something no older than about 2005/2006.