Are you a university or college student looking for a vehicle on a budget? Finding a vehicle that is reliable, fuel-efficient, affordable, and practical for campus life doesn’t have to be difficult! Here’s a list of the best cars for university students, including their starting price and features!
2025 Honda Civic
Starting Price: $27,540 to $36,800 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Honda Civic has been a favorite among students for years. Its combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability makes it perfect for those who need a budget-friendly car with a proven track record.
Key Features:
- Great fuel efficiency with up to 6 L/100 km on the highway.
- Standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
- Spacious interior with plenty of room for friends and gear.
- Strong resale value, which is important for future car trade-ins.
- The Civic’s low running costs and durability make it a solid investment for students who need a vehicle that can withstand daily commutes and the occasional long-distance trips.
2024 Toyota Corolla
Starting Price: $23,490 to $31,150 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Toyota Corolla is another compact sedan that has consistently earned praise for its reliability and efficiency. It’s ideal for students who want a no-fuss car that’s built to last.
Key Features:
- Excellent fuel efficiency with up to 8 L/100 km on the highway.
- Easy-to-use infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Toyota’s Safety Sense™ system comes standard, offering advanced driver-assistance features.
- Affordable maintenance costs and minimal repairs.
- The Corolla is a great option for students who need a dependable, affordable ride that’s easy to maintain. Its focus on safety and ease of driving is an added bonus for new drivers.
2025 Hyundai Elantra
Starting Price: $22,299 to $31,399 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Hyundai Elantra offers a good balance between affordability, style, and technology. It’s a great choice for students who want a little extra flair without spending too much.
Key Features:
- Good fuel efficiency with up to 3 L/100 km on the highway.
- Roomy interior with ample rear-seat space for carpooling or road trips.
- Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- The Elantra’s stylish design, combined with its affordability and features, makes it appealing to students who want something practical yet stylish.
2025 Chevrolet Trax
Starting Price: $21,699 to $28,199 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Chevrolet Trax is a compact crossover that offers a higher seating position and a comfortable ride, making it great for students who need a versatile vehicle that’s both affordable and practical.
Key Features:
- Fuel-efficient with up to 4 L/100 km on the highway.
- Good cargo space for a subcompact SUV, perfect for hauling books, luggage, or sports equipment.
- Standard safety features like a rearview camera and stability control.
- Modern infotainment system with smartphone integration for easy access to navigation and music.
- The Trax combines the practicality of a small SUV with the fuel efficiency of a compact car, offering the best of both worlds for students.
2025 Kia Soul
Starting Price: $22,895 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Kia Soul stands out with its unique design, roomy interior, and affordable price tag. It’s great for students who want a fun, cute car that doesn’t compromise on space or efficiency.
Key Features:
- Excellent fuel economy, with up to 7 L/100 km on the highway.
- Ample interior space with a boxy design that maximizes cargo room.
- Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone connectivity.
- Highly customizable with various trims and colors, making it a fun and practical choice.
2024 Nissan Sentra
Starting Price: $25,141 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Nissan Sentra offers one of the lowest starting prices for a compact sedan, while still providing great features, safety, and fuel efficiency. It’s a fantastic budget-friendly option for students.
Key Features:
- Good fuel economy with up to 1 L/100 km on the highway.
- Safety Shield® 360 comes standard, including features like rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
- Comfortable ride with a modern interior and plenty of space for passengers.
- Reliable and easy to maintain, with affordable parts and service costs.
- For students who want a new car without breaking the bank, the Nissan Sentra offers great value and safety features at a competitive price point.
2025 Hyundai Kona
Starting Price: $26,249 MSRP
Why It’s a Great Fit for Students:
The Hyundai Kona is a small crossover SUV that offers a higher driving position and plenty of space while still being affordable and fuel-efficient, making it a great fit for active college life.
Key Features:
- Great fuel economy with up to 8 L/100 km on the highway.
- Spacious interior with ample cargo space for road trips or moving between dorms.
- Available with AWD for added confidence in poor weather conditions.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims.
- Comes in an all-electric option.
- The Kona is perfect for students looking for a little more cargo space and capability, without sacrificing affordability and efficiency.
As a university student, choosing the right vehicle can save you money on fuel, maintenance, and repairs in the long run. At Birchwood, we can help you find the best vehicle for your budget and needs!
