A car for a student: a necessity or the high-hat? Well, it can be both or none. In some big cities of the world, like Tokyo, the roads are very busy. On the other hand, they usually have a well-developed public transport system. A car in such a city has more cons than pros. Parking a car in central London can be the worst nightmare.
In countries like Germany and the US, you feel a lot more convenient with a car. Your own vehicle means freedom in the first place. If you do not want to depend on city trains or your friends giving you a lift, then start choosing a car in the near future. It should be like a research paper writer at EssayPro – reliable. And its purpose is to give you more free time and freedom.
You should be reasonable here, though. A red convertible Mini Cooper for a lady is like Bradley Cooper for Lady Gaga – just perfect. Indeed, but not if you are a student. Choose something similar but more affordable, like Nissan Micra, before you are ready for a more serious relationship.
How Much Does it Cost?
We are not talking about the ultimate cost of the vehicle here. You should understand how much it is going to cost you monthly. You should consider such regular expenses as:
- fuel
- insurance
- registration
- parking costs
- servicing
- general maintenance (for instance, replacement of tires)
- repairs
Besides, you would need a phone holder to use the GPS on your phone while driving. And you might like an aroma diffuser that you smell in a shop. Oh, and look at these rugs!
A Brand New Or a Used One
This question causes the majority of debates. Sometimes, the answer is obvious because you are limited in your budget. But if you can afford both a new car or a second-hand one, you should better consider the arguments in favor of both. Especially if you are a fan of the latest engineering trends.
New Vehicles
- Most new cars meet the latest stringent safety standards.
- They are more fuel-efficient (especially city cars or minis).
- MoTs are not necessary before the car turns three.
- A new car often includes a breakdown cover as a bonus.
- It ends up less expensive on monthly maintenance.
- Modern designs are more exquisite.
Used Wheels
- Even if an automobile is only a few years old, it is much cheaper than one from a salon.
- The car mileage will make it almost new if the previous owner only used it to drive from home to work and back.
- It may already have convenience features, so you would not need to bother with installing extra appliances.
- You can always try to bargain.
- If the previous owner is generous, they can give you the other season’s tires as a present.
Top Affordable Cars for College Students
New or used remains up to you. But you should also know the models to focus on.
1. Vauxhall Corsa hatchback
Buyers rate it 3.5 out of 5. It is a Harry Potter in the world of cars – a bestseller from Britain. Driving schools and car-sharing companies definitely like this model. What are its advantages?
- easy to drive
- affordable to buy
- reliable
- well-equipped (DAB radio, LED headlights, alloy wheels)
- turbocharger
- has a sixth gear
It is a Harry Potter’s Firebolt – a good choice that flies.
2. Toyota Aygo hatchback
It is certainly distinctive. If it took part in a Student Design Competition, it would win. Why? Look at its X-shaped grille or its sharply angled rear end. Even if it is black or white in color, you will easily find it in a big car park. Its design makes it very popular among young drivers.
But visual appeal is not the only advantage Aygo offers. It has a 5-year/100000-mile warranty. Enthusiastic drivers call it a fine handling machine. It does not have a very big boot, though. So if you often move with your possessions, consider this factor. If all your belongings fit into two suitcases, this vehicle does not have drawbacks for you.
3. Citroën C1 hatchback
It’s rating among drivers is 3.1 out of 5. This small car has a big capacity. Its economical 1.0-liter petrol engine can manage around 52 mpg. Do you remember Peugeot’s ‘Just Add Fuel’ package? Citroën C1 has something similar called ‘Simply Drive’. This package covers road tax, servicing, and insurance for the first three years. Simply drive. But do not forget to add fuel.
4. Volkswagen Polo hatchback
This car can boast a higher customer rating – 4.4 out of 5. Its higher-spec versions are like mini-limos, but affordable ones. Customers are generous in compliments when it comes to describing this model:
- classy
- comfortable
- well-built
- spacious
- reasonably priced
5. SEAT Ibiza hatchback
It is a very stylish and at the same time practical choice. It has 5 doors and offers a lot of space for 5 passengers. It is a perfect option for students in search of something more ‘mature’ than just a city car.
6. Hyundai i10 hatchback
This is the model to go for if you want to impress everyone in your college. We do not mean organizing a Formula1-style racing competition in a car park. But everyone will pay attention to these attractive features:
- light and spacious cabin
- class-leading 252-liter boot
- sat nav
- digital radio
- smartphone mirroring
- reversing camera
- air conditioning
- wireless phone charging
- cruise control
7. Skoda Fabia hatchback
The absolute winner with a 4.3 out of 5 rating is Skoda Fabia. Experts outline three key features that make it an ideal option for students:
- spacious
- comfortable
- practical
These factors are very important for students indeed. Improved driving dynamics and cheap servicing packages are undeniable advantages.
A Student-Friendly Automobile – What Should One Look At
- Safety ratings
- Efficiency ratings
- Insurance costs
- Feature/optional add-ons
- Sticker price
- Financing options
The Most Important Features to Consider
1. Fuel economy
From the point of view of eco-friendliness, electric cars are an ideal option. But if you choose a traditional vehicle, pay attention to its gas mileage.
2. Safety features
Despite being the second on this list, it is number one. Driver-assist safety systems are a huge asset.
3. Accident history
If you are buying a second-hand motor, try to find out as much information as you can. Previous owners may refuse to spill the beans. But you can hire a professional to assess the condition of the auto.
4. Convenience features
Hands-free controls are great. But they are not a must. If you are choosing between them and safety systems, the choice is obvious.
5. Size and maneuverability
This is very individual. You can even forget about this feature altogether. But it feels so cool when the car looks like its owner’s natural continuation. If you find a car that fits both your budget and image, it is a jackpot.
