[JavaBrewer]

I'm on the other side of the fence and started my son off with an inexpensive used car with AT. He drove the first 2 years without incident but had a rash (2) of minor fender benders and a speeding ticket all happening in year 3. His insurance doubled - rightfully. Now another 2 years later and no more incidents...

I was driving an Audi TT with 6 speed manual and that is the car he learned to drive on.

Have you checked insurance prices for your son? New car registration and insurance is going to be spendy for a first time driver. Sure we want our kids in something safe - but there is, IMO, a middle ground.