Best Cars for College Students
Are you gearing up for college? If so, it’s essential to choose a reliable vehicle that suits your needs. Ditch the old family minivan and consider a car that is affordable, dependable, fuel-efficient, and stylish. You don’t have to be a car expert to find a used vehicle that encompasses all these qualities. Going back to basics often yields the best results when searching for a reliable car within a reasonable budget. Here’s a curated list of the 15 best cars for college students that you can buy!
- 1. Toyota 4Runner (2007-2010)
- 2. Subaru Outback (2005-2012)
- 3. Hyundai Genesis (2009-2010)
- 4. Chevrolet Tahoe (2010-2012)
- 5. Dodge Ram 1500 (2011-2013)
- 6. Lexus IS 250 (2009-2011)
- 7. Hyundai Sonata (2008-2012)
- 8. Acura TSX (2011-2014)
- 9. Ford Explorer (2011-2014)
- 10. Toyota RAV4 (2009-2012)
- 11. Volkswagen Golf GTI (2012-2014)
- 12. Nissan Leaf (2016-2019)
- 13. Mazda 3 (2004-2009)
- 14. Kia Soul (2010-2013)
- 15. Honda Accord (2008-2011)
1. Toyota 4Runner (2007-2010)
Price Range: $10,000-$18,000
The Toyota 4Runner may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, but it stands out as a fantastic option for college students. With proper maintenance, this durable SUV can easily surpass 200,000 miles, and some even exceed 300,000 miles. Car enthusiasts often regard the late-2000s models as some of the best vehicles for their performance and design. The 4Runner excels in various environments, from urban campuses to rugged landscapes, and it performs admirably in all weather conditions. Its reliable four-wheel-drive system, towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, and maximum horsepower of 270 make it a top choice. As long as this SUV is available, it will remain a favorite among college students.
2. Subaru Outback (2005-2012)
Price Range: $4,500-$23,000
The Subaru Outback is an ideal choice for fans of the brand who need a dependable vehicle. With all-wheel drive (AWD), it offers impressive fuel economy at 27 miles per gallon on the highway, making it perfect for long drives to and from campus with all your gear. Subaru also provides several safety upgrades for the Outback, allowing for customization. The 2012 model, in particular, stands out as it won the U.S. News Best Wagon for Families award and continues to be known for its reliability and performance.
3. Hyundai Genesis (2009-2010)
Price Range: $5,800-$10,000
The Hyundai Genesis is a remarkable addition to our list of top college vehicles. Launched as Hyundai’s first luxury sedan, the 2009 model quickly garnered a reputation for being well-rounded. Its safety features, low ownership costs, and affordable down payments make it a favorite among students. With a refined leather interior and notable features like Bluetooth connectivity, the Genesis combines luxury with functionality. Despite its age, it offers modern conveniences such as park assist technology, which is particularly useful for navigating tight college parking spaces.
4. Chevrolet Tahoe (2010-2012)
Price Range: $11,500-$20,000
For college students seeking a robust vehicle, the Chevrolet Tahoe is an exceptional choice. This SUV is built to handle the demands of student life, accommodating up to eight passengers with a powerful 320-horsepower engine and an impressive payload capacity of 8,500 pounds. The Tahoe also brings a touch of luxury with features like tri-zone climate control, OnStar telematics, and heated seats. Despite being a premium SUV, it often flies under the radar compared to its more expensive counterparts like the Cadillac Escalade.
5. Dodge Ram 1500 (2011-2013)
Price Range: $12,800-$26,500
No list of best cars for college students would be complete without a reliable pickup truck, and the Dodge Ram 1500 fits the bill perfectly. The 2013 model introduced new V6 engine options that improved speed, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. The 2011 and 2012 models remain highly capable and are among the most affordable options for students. With 395 horsepower and a payload capacity of 9,000 pounds, this truck provides both performance and practicality.
6. Lexus IS 250 (2009-2011)
Price Range: $9,500-$15,000
The Lexus IS 250 is a stunning luxury sedan that offers a sporty look and performance. It features a choice between manual and automatic transmissions, catering to different driving preferences. The manual version boasts a 206-horsepower V6 engine, while the automatic version delivers a more powerful 306-horsepower V6 with all-wheel drive. The IS 250 is known for its premium interior, complete with detailed climate control and advanced technology, ensuring you arrive at college in style.
7. Hyundai Sonata (2008-2012)
Price Range: $3,500-$15,000
Hyundai makes another appearance on our list with the Sonata, often regarded as the brand’s flagship model. Known for its top-tier crash safety rating and spacious interior, the Sonata is built to last. With proper care, it can easily reach 150,000 miles and beyond. Its affordability makes it a fantastic find for budget-conscious students, delivering reliability without breaking the bank.
8. Acura TSX (2011-2014)
Price Range: $13,000-$15,500
The Acura TSX, though available for a limited time, offers an impressive blend of speed and fuel efficiency. Its 280-horsepower V6 engine provides ample power, while achieving an impressive 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The TSX features luxurious leather seating and a user-friendly control panel, making it a versatile choice for any college student.
9. Ford Explorer (2011-2014)
Price Range: $7,000-$20,000
The Ford Explorer is a reliable option for students needing to transport friends and gear. While it may not have the best fuel efficiency, it compensates with affordability and durability. Its widespread popularity means you can often find a well-maintained Explorer for a good price. However, be cautious of potential scams and ensure thorough inspections before purchasing.
10. Toyota RAV4 (2009-2012)
Price Range: $9,000-$19,000
The Toyota RAV4 is an excellent compact SUV choice for college students, particularly the 2012 model, which won the title of Best Affordable Compact SUV. This model was the last to offer third-row seating and introduced Bluetooth connectivity. While it may require a higher down payment, its low cost of ownership and impressive fuel economy make it a smart investment.
11. Volkswagen Golf GTI (2012-2014)
Price Range: $9,200-$16,000
For those who appreciate performance and style, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a fantastic option. It features a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with excellent fuel economy, averaging 30 miles per gallon in the city and 42 on the highway. The Golf GTI’s European hatchback design offers both charm and practicality, including a spacious interior and cargo flexibility with its split-folding back row.
12. Nissan Leaf (2016-2019)
Price Range: $11,000-$23,000, with very low monthly payments!
The Nissan Leaf presents an affordable option with monthly payments as low as $200 and no required down payment. As an electric vehicle, it comes with fewer maintenance needs than traditional gas-powered cars, providing significant long-term savings. With charging stations becoming increasingly available on college campuses, the Leaf is an attractive option for environmentally-conscious students.
13. Mazda 3 (2004-2009)
Price Range: $4,000-$15,000
The Mazda 3 has consistently maintained its popularity since its debut, known for its sleek design and reliability. With impressive fuel efficiency of 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 on the highway, it sets the standard for compact cars. Additionally, the smooth and quiet driving experience ensures a pleasant ride, making it a great fit for students.
14. Kia Soul (2010-2013)
Price Range: $7,000-$10,000
The Kia Soul is an excellent match for students looking for a vehicle that meets all their criteria. Its unique styling sets it apart from the crowd, and even the base model comes equipped with essential features. The compact design belies its spacious interior, and purchasing a used Soul may still provide the benefit of remaining powertrain warranty coverage, making it a smart investment for college students.
15. Honda Accord (2008-2011)
Price Range: $10,000-$15,000
The Honda Accord’s widespread presence on the road is a testament to its reliability and popularity. It has received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and features numerous safety mechanisms. With a four-cylinder engine that delivers 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway, the Accord is not only safe but also economical. It’s one of Honda’s most successful models, and finding a reasonably priced pre-owned version is entirely feasible before starting college.