Planning to head to college soon? Make sure you don’t rely on your mom’s old minivan. The best cars for college students are those that are affordable, reliable, efficient, and stylish.
You don’t need to be a car expert or enthusiast to find a used vehicle that offers all these qualities. In fact, going back to basics is often the best strategy when searching for a dependable car that fits within a modest budget.
Here are the 15 best cars for college students that you can buy!
1. Toyota 4Runner (2007-2010)
Price Range: $10,000-$18,000
While its price range may be higher than some other options, the Toyota 4Runner stands out as one of the most affordable choices for college students.
With proper maintenance, this vehicle can easily reach 200,000 miles, and it could even push past 300,000 miles.
Many car enthusiasts consider the late-2000s 4Runner models to be the best all-around vehicles, offering an excellent balance of performance and design.
The 4Runner is also an outstanding choice for any college campus, whether it’s urban or rural, and it performs well in all kinds of weather conditions.
It boasts a highly dependable four-wheel-drive system, a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, and a maximum of 270 horsepower. As long as this SUV remains in circulation, it will undoubtedly remain one of the best cars for college students.
2. Subaru Outback (2005-2012)
Price Range: $4,500-$23,000
The Subaru Outback is the perfect choice for anyone who is a Subaru fan and needs a dependable, affordable vehicle.
With its all-wheel drive (AWD), impressive 27 miles per gallon on the highway, and exceptional storage capacity, it’s an ideal option for long drives to and from college with all of your belongings.
Additionally, Subaru offers numerous safety upgrades for the Outback if you want to make some modifications to the vehicle.
While any Outback from the late 2000s and early 2010s is a great pick, the 2012 model stands out as the best of this era. It won the U.S. News Best Wagon for Families award and continues to hold a strong reputation for reliability and performance.
Also Read: 10 Hyundai Vehicles That Beat the Odds on Durability
3. Hyundai Genesis (2009-2010)
Price Range: $5,800-$10,000
The Hyundai Genesis is another great option on our list of the best cars for college students. The 2009 model marked Hyundai’s first-ever luxury sedan, and over time, it has built a strong reputation as a well-rounded vehicle.
It remains one of the most popular used Hyundai models every year, thanks to its excellent safety features, low cost of ownership, and very affordable down payments.
As a luxury car, the Genesis boasts a leather interior that stands out as much more refined than most vehicles in this price range. When it was first released, its Bluetooth speaker system was a notable feature.
Even though the Genesis is somewhat older, it still offers impressive park assist technology a significant advantage for college students who often need to fit into tight parking spaces on campus or in town.
4. Chevrolet Tahoe (2010-2012)
Price Range: $11,500-$20,000
The best cars for college students need to be durable and ready to handle the demands of college life. The Chevrolet Tahoe is a robust SUV designed to withstand tough conditions.
With seating for eight people, a 320-horsepower engine, and a payload capacity of 8,500 pounds, it offers ample size and power to transport a group of students with ease.
The Tahoe also provides a surprisingly high level of luxury, featuring tri-zone climate control, the OnStar telematics system, and heated seats with adjustable settings.
In many ways, the Tahoe doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves as a premium SUV. It offers many of the same features as the Cadillac Escalade but without the luxury brand’s reputation and higher price tag.
5. Dodge Ram 1500 (2011-2013)
Price Range: $12,800-$26,500
No list of the best cars for college students would be complete without including at least one pickup truck, and the Dodge Ram 1500 is an excellent choice, especially for early 2010s models.
The 2013 version stands out as it was the first Dodge truck to offer new V6 engine options, which enhanced speed, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
The 2011 and 2012 models are still highly capable and among the most affordable vehicles for college students.
This pickup comes with all the typical features you’d expect from a high-quality truck, including 395 horsepower, a 9,000-pound payload capacity, and an interior that comfortably accommodates five adults.
Also Read: 10 Lexus Models That Rival Toyota in Reliability
6. Lexus IS 250 (2009-2011)
Price Range: $9,500-$15,000
The Lexus IS 250 is a luxury sedan that combines the sleek look and power of a sports car, making it a distinctive choice for a starter vehicle.
One of its unique features is the option to choose between a manual or automatic transmission, depending on your preference.
If you opt for the manual, the car comes with a 206-horsepower V6 engine that offers better fuel efficiency. On the other hand, if you choose the automatic, you’ll get a more powerful 306-horsepower V6 engine paired with all-wheel drive.
As with all Lexus models, the IS 250 excels in providing premium interior features. Its leather interior includes highly detailed climate control, unique seat-adjustment capabilities, and an advanced control panel, among other highlights.
You’ll be able to roll up to college in style with this sleek sedan that delivers both performance and luxury.
7. Hyundai Sonata (2008-2012)
Price Range: $3,500-$15,000
Hyundai makes another appearance on our list of the best cars for college students with the dependable Sonata.
Often regarded as Hyundai’s finest vehicle, the Sonata is known for its top-tier crash safety rating, spacious interior, and overall durability. With proper care, it can easily last for 15 years and reach 150,000 miles.
What’s even more impressive is the vehicle’s price range. A used Sonata priced at $3,500 that still delivers consistent performance is a great find for young buyers who are on a budget.
The Sonata earns its spot on this list primarily because it is one of the most affordable yet reliable cars for college students.
8. Acura TSX (2011-2014)
Price Range: $13,000-$15,500
Although the Acura TSX was only available for a brief period, it left a lasting impression by offering an ideal balance of speed and fuel efficiency.
The 280-horsepower V6 engine under the hood provides plenty of power for any driver, while its fuel economy of 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway is outstanding.
It will be difficult to find another sedan from the early 2010s that offers this level of mileage.Inside, the TSX features comfortable leather seating, an easy-to-use control panel, and surprisingly ample trunk space for a sports car.
In fact, calling the TSX a sports car doesn’t fully capture how versatile and well-rounded it is. It may look like any other early-2010s sedan, but its performance will far exceed your expectations.
9. Ford Explorer (2011-2014)
Price Range: $7,000-$20,000
The Ford Explorer is always a solid choice, especially if you need to transport gear, friends, or groceries. While it may not offer the best fuel efficiency, it compensates with its affordability and long-term durability.
If you browse through any newspaper classifieds, you’re likely to come across an affordable Explorer in good condition.
Although the Explorer is one of the top college cars, its widespread popularity can actually be a drawback. With so many pre-owned models available, there are also numerous scams in the market.
It’s crucial to carefully inspect the vehicle both online and in person before finalizing any purchase.
10. Toyota RAV4 (2009-2012)
Price Range: $9,000-$19,000
Any RAV4 from 2009 onward would make an excellent vehicle for college students, but the 2012 model stands out as a top choice.
It won the title of Best Affordable Compact SUV and was the last model to offer third-row seating. Additionally, it was the first RAV4 to come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, a significant upgrade from earlier models.
RAV4s often require higher down payments compared to other used vehicles, but this is due to their low cost of ownership and long lifespan. In the long run, you’ll save money thanks to its impressive fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs.
11. Volkswagen Golf GTI (2012-2014)
Price Range: $9,200-$16,000
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a beloved choice among car enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. It delivers both power and efficiency, featuring a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The Golf GTI also offers impressive fuel economy, with 30 miles per gallon in the city and 42 miles per gallon on the highway. It’s available in both automatic and manual transmission options, making it a versatile choice for any driver in any setting.
In addition to its performance, the Golf GTI is also a highly stylish vehicle. Its chassis showcases all the hallmarks of a classic European hatchback. Inside, the design exudes a luxury feel, with features that you’d expect from higher-end vehicles.
The car even offers the ability to increase cargo space with the split-folding back row. With all these qualities, the Golf GTI is an ideal choice for college students looking for a well-rounded vehicle.
12. Nissan Leaf (2016-2019)
Price Range: $11,000-$23,000, but with very low monthly payments!
The Nissan Leaf offers an incredibly affordable option, with monthly payments as low as $200 and no down payment required.
As an electric vehicle, it also comes with fewer maintenance needs compared to traditional gas-powered cars, which means you can save a significant amount on repairs over time.
For students living in college towns that are expanding, finding charging stations around campus is becoming easier. Charging stations can be found at locations like gas stations, car washes, and even restaurant parking lots.
Additionally, many college campuses are now offering free charging for students who have a parking pass, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to invest in an electric car.
13. Mazda 3 (2004-2009)
Price Range: $4,000-$15,000
The Mazda 3 has maintained strong demand since its initial release, remaining a popular choice for drivers. In its early years, the Mazda 3 consistently ranked among the top compact cars.
Over time, it has proven itself as a dependable hatchback, known for its sleek design both inside and out.The price range for the Mazda 3 is an excellent deal for a car that boasts durability and a solid reputation.
It offers an impressive 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway, setting the benchmark for other hatchbacks in its class.
Additionally, it provides a famously smooth and quiet driving experience, which will be appreciated by both your roommates and neighbors at school.
14. Kia Soul (2010-2013)
Price Range: $7,000-$10,000
If you’ve created a detailed checklist of what you want from an ideal college car, the Kia Soul is sure to meet all of your requirements.
Its distinctive styling sets it apart from the countless plain vehicles typically found in parking lots. The most basic version of the Soul comes equipped with an aux jack and satellite radio.
Despite its compact size, the interior is surprisingly spacious. Additionally, when purchasing a used Soul, you might still have some remaining coverage under Kia’s powertrain warranty.
While the Kia Scion xB is a noteworthy alternative that closely rivals the Soul, the Soul is the more affordable option, making it one of the best cars for college students.
15. Honda Accord (2008-2011)
Price Range: $10,000-$15,000
There’s a reason why you can spot a Honda Accord on almost every road it’s one of the most reliable and popular cars ever made.
The Accord has received excellent ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and boasts a 5-star safety rating.
It’s designed with numerous features to ensure your protection, including a compact frame, side-curtain and front-side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and much more.
In addition to safety, the Accord offers impressive fuel efficiency. Its four-cylinder engine delivers 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway, making it a reliable option for getting from point A to point B.
The Honda Accord is one of the most popular vehicles ever made by Honda, and it’s possible to find a reasonably priced pre-owned model before heading off to college.