I don't believe in buying my kids cars. I would let them borrow my wife's car (
) if they are responsible and they can work to get their first car on their own. I will consider financial assistance but should be paid back.
Unfortunately, my wife does not share my puritanical philosophy, so if a car it has to be I would choose a used Subie Imprezza, manual. Can't get into too much trouble with the base 4 cyl engine and the AWD will in fact get them out of it. One car, shared among all my children.