For any teenage driver, having the right car to impress friends is important in getting ready to head back to school.

With school bells just about to ring students back in session, Kelley Blue Book, has named the best cars for students heading back to campuses across the country.

For both parents and students, the right vehicle is often one of the most difficult purchases.

"Kids these days want a cool car their friends will covet, while parents want a vehicle that will keep their kids safe in unforeseen circumstances," said Jack Nerad, executive editorial director for Kelley Blue Book and kbb.com. "The good news, though, is that there has never been a better crop of safe, stylish, economical new and used vehicles on the market. One is bound to satisfy both parents and kids."

When you combine the varying needs and wants of students with the parents who often have a financial say in the matter, the only vehicles likely to make the cut are those that are affordable, reliable, safe, practical and offer some measure of "cool."

The quest for the right ride is further complicated by the fact that buying new and buying used each offers compelling advantages. New vehicles offer a full warranty, the latest safety and technology advancements, and the allure of that new-car shine and smell.

Buying a used car, especially one with a good reliability record and/or a remaining warranty, gives buyers the option of spending less, getting more or both.

Top 10 New Cars

• 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Regular Cab
• 2007 Honda Fit Sport
• 2008 Jeep Patriot Sport
• 2007 Kia Rio5 SX hatchback
• 2008 Mazda3i Sport sedan
• 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer DE
• 2008 Nissan Versa S sedan
• 2008 Scion xB Sportwagon
• 2007 Suzuki SX4 hatchback
• 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit

Top 10 Used Cars

• 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt sedan
• 2004 Ford Focus ZX3 hatchback
• 2003 Ford Mustang coupe
• 2003 Honda Civic DX coupe
• 2006 Hyundai Accent GLS sedan
• 2003 Mazda Tribute DX
• 2003 Mazda Protégé5
• 2005 Nissan Sentra sedan
• 2004 Pontiac Vibe Sport wagon
• 2003 Toyota Tacoma shortbed