The transition to college life may be both thrilling and nerve-racking. You have to think about transportation in addition to signing up for courses, moving in, and stocking up on books. Finding the appropriate vehicle may be a hassle, as if life didn’t already have enough challenges
Finding a car that fits these criteria is essential whether you are a young adult trying to buy one for yourself or a college student looking to buy one as a gift. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also conduct crash tests, and high results from both organizations are essential. You should also look for newer cars that have the most up-to-date technology options, such as a Wi-Fi hot spot and smartphone integration, so that you can maintain your online presence while on the road.
These are the 11 best cars for college students, ranging from tiny SUVs to medium sedans. Our rankings place these automobiles among the best on the market. Some of the scores in this article may not match those of a particular review since we are always revising our ratings and statistics in light of fresh facts.
11 Best Vehicles for College Students
Also Check out this: Top 10 Best Cars for New Moms in 2022
#1. 2023 Toyota Corolla
- Price: $32,000
- Engine: 1.6 L Turbo Inline-3 Gas
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Several of the cars below, including the Toyota Corolla, have been designated as Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The total cost of ownership is rather modest, and it has a solid track record of dependability. The base L model of the Corolla is the one that sets the pricing. For just $450 more, you may upgrade to the LE trim. It comes standard with a lot more features, including temperature control, keyless entry, and an armrest for the backseat.
Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 system is standard on all Corolla models. Includes features such as front collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, lane centering, traffic sign recognition, and high beam assist.
#2. 2022 Honda Civic
- Price: $23,645
- Engine: 2.0 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission
The Civic was selected as a top selection because it is a perennial recipient of the Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award, among other accolades. The brand-new 2022 model has also reclaimed its position as our best cars for college students. Both the IIHS and the NHTSA gave it its highest possible safety ratings of 5 stars. It has a combined fuel economy of 35 mpg, according to government estimates.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are all standard on every Honda Civic. There are a pair of USB outlets, Bluetooth, and the ability to pair with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. To the best of my knowledge, Honda seldom sells bundled extras. Raising your trim level grants, you access to higher-tiered material. Consider a hatchback if you often transport bulky items
#3. 2023 Hyundai Elantra
- Price: $20,995
- Engine: 2.0 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: CVT Transmission
A full makeover of the Elantra was released by Hyundai two years ago. The base SE model is reasonably priced, and it offers a lot for the money, including an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined fuel economy and Hyundai’s Smart Sense suite of safety driver-assist amenities. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane centering, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are all a part of the package.
In addition, high-beam assist, an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connection with speech recognition, and two USB ports are included as standard equipment. For these and other reasons, the best affordable cars for college students best buy were awarded to it in the past.
#4. 2023 Honda HR-V
- Price: $ 24,000 estimated
- Engine: 1.8 L in-line four-cylinder
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission
The redesigned Honda HR-V is best cars for college students for 2023 since it is bigger, more powerful, and more polished than ever before. The Honda HR-V, notable for its roomy cabin, achieves an excellent combined 28 miles per gallon. Although crash test results for the HR-V have not been released by the government or the IIHS, it is based on the Honda Civic, which has been recognized as both a 5-Star model and a Top Safety Pick+. That’s why we’re anticipating the all-new HR-V to do very well in crash tests.
This listing is for the base LX model, which includes the Honda Sensing Suite of driving aids (forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control) at no extra cost. The EX-trim is the only one that has the blind-spot monitoring system with cross-traffic monitor.
#5. 2022 Kia Soul
- Price: $21,085
- Engine: 2.0 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission
The Kia Soul’s appearance is the first thing people will notice about it since it is so unusual. For the best cars for college students 2022 of its size, it boasts a lot of room inside. The cabin’s cutting-edge features and plush design have also been lauded by critics. The Soul is reasonably priced with a starting price of $16,940. However, in terms of gas economy, it falls a touch short of competitors in its class.
#6. 2023 Toyota Prius
- Price: $25,650
- Engine: 2.0 L Gas/Electric I-4
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission
The Toyota Prius, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $24,685, is the costliest of the compact cars on this list. How much do you receive for your money? Firstly, the Prius is a hybrid, meaning it runs on both gas and electricity. Hybrids are ecologically friendly and provide excellent gas economy (up to 53 miles per gallon).
The Prius’s interior provides generous room for passengers. However, the interior’s comfort and quality have received mostly negative evaluations for a vehicle in this price range.
#7. 2022 Nissan Altima
- Price: $25,995
- Engine: 2.5 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission
In general, the Nissan Altima is best cars for college students in USA. It’s neither the most affordable option in this group ($23,260 MSRP), nor is it the most spacious (in terms of passenger volume). Even so, it has roomy, supportive seats and an optionally available responsive 3.5L V6 engine. Want to upgrade to something classier? The Altima is an excellent option because of its modern powertrain and sleek design.
#8. 2022 Subaru outback
- Price: $ 28,820
- Engine: 2.4 L Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded H-4
- Transmission: 8-Speed Continuous Variable Transmission
The Subaru Outback is a tough, roomy midsize car that has proven to be the company’s most popular model. It’s best cars for college students 2022 who like the outdoors but need something more utilitarian than an SUV.
The price tag of $26,345 may seem high at first but consider all the extras you’ll be getting. Subaru has maintained the 2017 Outback’s rugged appearance on the outside, but improved the vehicle’s inside with a more robust, user-friendly infotainment system and added safety measures.
#9. 2022 Mazda3
- Price: $ 23,615
- Engine: 2.5 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
Mazda3 was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and us the best affordable cars for college students. According to official estimates, it achieves 31 mpg in a combination of city and highway driving. The Mazda3’s outstanding handling is made possible by the option of all-wheel drive (AWD). Since all-wheel drive is an option, this vehicle was also considered while ranking our Best Snow Cars.
#10. 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe
- Price: $28,445
- Engine: 2.5L Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: 8-Speed Auto-Shift Transmission
With a starting MSRP of only $28,445, the Sante Fe is a fantastically priced SUV for best cars for college students in USA. Seats are made of stain- and odor-resistant fabric, and there are six speakers for music and sound. It also has an industry-leading guarantee, making it one of the safest purchases you can make. A student who enjoys being outside would benefit greatly from having this vehicle.
Planning to establish a family soon after graduation from university? You could purchase a Sante Fe now and use it as a family vehicle when you graduate, thanks to the company’s extended warranty.
#11. 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
- Price: $27,740
- Engine: 2.5 L Regular Unleaded I-4
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
The Toyota RAV4, which starts at a starting price of $27,385, is a reliable, reasonably priced SUV that delivers respectable fuel economy. It’s priced similarly to other SUVs, but it has all-wheel drive standard. If you’re a student on a tight budget who wants to travel out of town and see the sights, consider the RAV4.
FAQ’s About Best Cars for College Students
Is it better for a college student to buy or lease a car?
As a student, you shouldn’t have to worry about things like vehicle bills and repairs. Leasing is an excellent option for college students because of the low monthly payments, low or no down payment, and overall reliability of a newer car. Car leasing has many advantages. Your adolescent may drive away in a shiny new automobile with all the latest safety equipment, a complete manufacturer’s guarantee, and low monthly payments when you sign them up for a lease. The common lease term is two to three years, which coincides with the average time a student may enjoy parking privileges at their university.
What type of car should a college student get?
Any college student should prefer buying a budget-friendly, fuel-efficient, and comfortable car.
How much should a college student spend on their first car?
A student may reasonably spend between $2500 and $5000 for a vehicle, depending on savings and income. You shouldn’t spend more than 15% to 20% of your monthly income on transportation-related costs (such as loan/lease payments, insurance, and maintenance).
Should I buy a car for college?
College students living in a new place may find that having a vehicle increases their level of stress.
