The choice of your first college car can stay with you forever. Even when you change a dozen cars, you’ll still remember the one you drove in your student years. Most likely, it will be the first car you buy for yourself. Hence, it creates a special bond that’s hard to break even years after. It’s just like reminiscing about your favorite nursing essay writing services that got you through college.
You want to recall your first vehicle with joy and nostalgia instead of regret and disappointment. So, choosing right is your only option here. Fortunately, many car manufacturers are eager to fill any gaps in the student car market. As a result, each year, we have new great car models perfect for young people in college. So, here are the best options students can find in the car market in 2022.
Factors to consider
Before moving on to the car model, let’s first create a list of criteria. Such a list will help you focus your attention and set your priorities straight.
Budget
Of course, a student should set the car budget before looking at their options. Your budget shouldn’t be higher than what you can afford. Plus, you should also consider the maintenance costs of a car. After all, your expenses won’t end with the purchase itself. You’ll also need to insure it, buy gas, make repairs, etc. Each car will have different requirements that can benefit or cost you.
Size
You can start your car search in the right size category, depending on your needs and expectations. So, if you are not good with parking, don’t need much space, and don’t carpool often, a small car can be a perfect option for you. Yet, if you are a tall person, have a large friend group, and like taking space on the road, an SUV can be the right choice.
Safety
Modern cars come with all kinds of safety and security features. You can look into the car tech novelties to find out what systems and gadgets seem necessary to you. Besides, some cars are built for higher security and protection. Such cars will also cost you less in insurance and repairs.
New or used
Finally, students can choose between new or used cars. Both options come with their cons and pros. Such a choice will depend on your individual needs and budget. For example, a used car will cost less during the purchase and when insured. You can also find premium options for lower prices. Yet, your choices are rather limited here.
Small cars
Campus parking space is pretty scarce today. Overall, smaller cars definitely have a time and cost advantage.
Kia Soul
Kia Soul is among the small car classics. It’s compact yet spacy and practical. It certainly stands out among the rest of the vehicles in that category. Kia Soul has been on the market for about 15 years. Still, it leads in sales due to its affordability, unusual design, comfortable cabin, lots of storage space, and advanced technology.
Honda Fit
Another classic model, Honda Fit, has been dominating the car student market for quite a while. This vehicle is easy to handle, which promises you a comfortable drive. It’s not the fastest, sure, just as it doesn’t have many tech advances. Yet, it’s very budget-friendly, both in total price and gas usage. Additionally, it is considered one of the safest cars on the road.
Toyota Prius
Most students look for a comfortable city ride. Well, the Toyota Prius is just that and more. Of course, it’s more pricey than the previous models. Yet, the car is worth every dollar. Toyota Prius is a modern hybrid vehicle. So, you can use both gas and electricity to go around the town. Not to mention that it is a super reliable, comfortable, and very stylish-looking car.
Mid and large-size cars
Students who are willing to spend more free time in their car, exploring a new city, going on a hike, or nature will do better with a larger car size.
Nissan Altima
This car is reliable, bold, and comfortable. Of course, it’s not as spacious as similar models. Though its fuel economy is famous, the car’s safety features won’t have your worries about accidents or extra insurance costs. Besides, it’s one of the most budget options in its category.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the most affordable and stylish SUVs on the market right now. It’s safe, powerful, and incredibly satisfying to ride. It guarantees smooth performance regardless of the road type and pavement. The car is spacious enough to host all your friends. Yet, it has a practical and efficient interior and exterior design.
It is certainly the car for big explorers and nature lovers. It will get you safely to where you’re going. Though, it also comes with an extensive warranty list to secure any road casualties.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Those who need something reliable, affordable, and efficient should consider Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It’s not as flashy or stylish as many modern SUVs. Yet, its reputation speaks for itself. The car is safe, powerful, and capable of performing under various weather conditions and pavement types. In fact, it can even tow other cars or cargo when needed. It will serve you a long time before acquiring any first performance issues. Also, if you choose to sell, its resale value won’t drop much, which is a nice bonus.
