Starting Price: $23,295<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Subaru Crosstrek, designed for off-road adventures, comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), ensuring exceptional capability in any terrain. While the Crosstrek is initially equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, upgrading to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) for an additional $1,350 brings additional safety features. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the CVT, the Crosstrek offers a selectable mode between fuel economy and power, enhancing versatility. Furthermore, the CVT contributes to improved fuel efficiency, resulting in a combined mileage of 30 mpg compared to 25 mpg with the manual transmission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Options for the CVT also include Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, on the base Crosstrek. The CVT variant adds forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control to enhance safety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Higher trim levels may feature a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert as optional or standard equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In terms of connectivity, the Crosstrek offers a comprehensive package. It includes one USB port, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and hands-free phone integration. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These features ensure seamless connectivity and entertainment options while on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>6. Kia Seltos<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $23,110<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Introducing the all-new subcompact SUV from Kia, the Kia Seltos. This fresh addition to the lineup brings a blend of style and functionality. Except for the LX trim, each version of the Seltos comes equipped with an extensive array of safety features. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These include forward-collision warning with emergency braking, driver attention warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane centering, and high-beam assist, as confirmed by the IIHS. For those desiring blind-spot monitoring, an upgrade to the EX grade is required, which comes with an additional cost of $3,400.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Connectivity options in the Seltos are designed to keep you connected and entertained on the road. Bluetooth with speech recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto integration, and one USB port are included, ensuring seamless integration with your devices and various entertainment options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One standout feature of the Seltos is its class-leading cargo space, providing ample room for your belongings. The second-row seat is also spacious enough to accommodate adults, prioritizing passenger comfort comfortably. The Kia Seltos combines practicality, safety, and connectivity, making it an attractive choice in the subcompact SUV segment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>7. Hyundai Kona<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $21,540<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Hyundai Kona, a subcompact SUV, offers impressive value for your money. Its compact size makes maneuvering and parking in crowded areas, such as campuses, effortless. The rear cargo compartment is spacious enough to accommodate all your gear, making it an ideal adventure companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To enhance your driving experience, the Kona comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These features allow seamless connectivity with your smartphone, providing access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When equipped with a gas engine, the Kona delivers an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 33 mpg, ensuring fewer stops at the gas station. It’s worth noting that an electric vehicle variant of the Kona is also available, offering an eco-friendly and efficient driving option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Hyundai Kona offers a compelling combination of practicality, connectivity, and fuel efficiency, making it a smart choice in the subcompact SUV segment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>8. Honda HR-V<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $22,140 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its roomy interior, the Honda HR-V offers ample space for passengers and cargo without compromising fuel efficiency, achieving a commendable 30 miles per gallon in combined city-highway driving. Additionally, the HR-V has demonstrated exceptional safety performance, receiving top ratings in crash tests conducted by the government and the IIHS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The pricing mentioned pertains to the base LX trim; however, if you desire the advanced driving aids of the Honda Sensing Suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot camera, you will need to opt for the EX trim. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These features provide extra safety and assistance while on the road, enhancing the driving experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>9. Nissan Sentra<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $20,335<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Nissan Sentra combines practicality, sophisticated aesthetics, and a touch of sportiness. This compact car showcases an elegant appearance with a hint of sporty flair. Inside, the Sentra offers “zero gravity” seats to enhance comfort during your daily commute to school or work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its impressive fuel efficiency, the Sentra allows for economical journeys, achieving up to 39 miles per gallon on the highway and 33 miles per gallon combined. This means fewer visits to the gas station and less strain on your wallet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regardless of the trim level, all models of the Sentra come equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration of your smartphone for an enhanced driving experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Safety is a top priority in the Sentra, as even the base model includes the comprehensive SafetyShield 360 suite of driver aids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These features comprise auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic rear braking, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and high-beam assist. The Sentra is equipped with ten airbags, providing extra protection for occupants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Nissan Sentra offers a practical and comfortable driving experience, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it an affordable car for college students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>10. Kia Soul<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $18,610<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The base model of this IIHS Top Safety Pick does not offer any driver assistance features, even as an optional upgrade. However, the S grade includes forward-collision warning, emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with a rear cross-traffic alert at an additional cost of $3,100. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for connectivity, the base model includes Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and one USB port, although voice recognition is not available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regarding fuel efficiency, the standard Soul, equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, achieves a combined mileage of 27 mpg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite the absence of driver assistance features in the entry-level model, the Soul remains an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The S grade offers additional safety enhancements, while the base model provides convenient connectivity options. The Soul balances safety and connectivity, making it an affordable car for college students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>11. Ford Maverick<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $22,195 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Ford Maverick is an enticing option for college students, thanks to its affordable starting price. However, there are additional reasons to consider this vehicle. Notably, it offers spacious seating for five individuals, making it suitable for group outings, and provides ample cargo room for transporting belongings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One standout feature of the Maverick is its standard hybrid powertrain, which combines a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This configuration offers efficient performance, ideal for those conscious of their environmental impact and fuel consumption. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For those seeking additional power, there is also an option for a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s worth noting that the resurgence of small pickups is evident, and the adventurous nature of college students makes them a perfect match for this type of affordable car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>12. Toyota Camry<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $25,945 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the Toyota Camry may not epitomize excitement, it excels in practicality. And for many college students, practicality is precisely what they seek. As one of the best-selling cars in the United States, the Camry has garnered popularity for its well-rounded nature, offering impressive performance in multiple areas without necessarily standing out in any one aspect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Toyota Camry may not be the flashiest choice, but its practicality, reliable performance, and strong safety features have made it a favorite among many car shoppers. The Camry is an affordable car for college students seeking a versatile and well-rounded vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>13. Hyundai Tucson<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $26,450 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hyundai decided to maintain the 2023 Tucson without introducing any significant changes following its complete redesign in 2022, and it’s hard to blame them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2022, we recognized Tucson as our top choice for Best Compact SUV for the Money, Best Compact SUV for Families, and one of our Best Affordable Cars for Teens. With such accolades, is there any more convincing needed to showcase its suitability for college students?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Consider the spacious and comfortable cabin, which surpasses expectations in terms of aesthetics and quality, especially given its affordable Price. The Tucson also boasts abundant user-friendly technology, further enhancing the overall driving experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Powering the Tucson is an efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a respectable 187 horsepower. All-wheel drive is available for those concerned about weather conditions as an upgrade, ensuring enhanced traction and control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Hyundai Tucson is a compelling choice for college students with its track record of awards and recognition, impressive interior, user-friendly technology, and efficient performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>14. Hyundai Santa Cruz<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $25,450 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup truck that impressively accommodates five passengers while providing a remarkable amount of versatile cargo space in its bed. The Santa Cruz offers a comfortable ride thanks to its unibody design based on a crossover platform. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It not only delivers strong performance but also boasts a functional and comfortable interior, as well as commendable safety scores and features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out as a compact pickup truck with spacious seating for five passengers and impressive cargo-carrying capabilities in its bed. Its unibody design ensures a comfortable ride, while its performance, interior functionality, and safety features add to its appeal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a choice of powertrain options and the availability of all-wheel drive, the Santa Cruz caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. This car is a cheap car for college students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>15. Honda Accord<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nStarting Price: $26,120 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Honda Accord takes the lead in our midsize car rankings, boasting an attractive design, solid construction, extensive features, and an appealing price point. It has earned two prestigious awards for 2022: Best Midsize Car for the Money and Best Midsize Car for Families. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overall, the Accord is an outstanding choice, with the added benefit of a spacious trunk that proves advantageous for college students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Honda Accord excels in all aspects, from its captivating design to its high-quality construction and many features. It’s well-deserved accolades and spacious trunk make it a cheap car and an ideal choice for college students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With two turbocharged engine options, the Accord provides both performance and efficiency, ensuring a satisfying driving experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Why Do You Need A Car In College?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHaving a car in college can offer several advantages and conveniences for students. Here are a few reasons why someone might consider getting a car while in college:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Transportation flexibility<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWith a car, students can travel and commute at their convenience without relying on public transportation schedules or the availability of rides from others. It allows them to explore the surrounding area, run errands, and travel off-campus more easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Commuting to campus<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFor students living off-campus or in areas with limited public transportation options, a car can make the daily commute to campus more efficient and convenient, especially if they have early morning or late evening classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Part-time jobs and internships<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMany college students work part-time jobs or internships to gain practical experience and earn income. Having an affordable car can expand their employment opportunities by allowing them to access job locations that might not be easily reachable by public transportation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n