Best Affordable Cars for Students

How Can You Find a Budget-Friendly Vehicle?

There are many factors that go into buying a new four-wheeler. Finding the one that suits your needs and budget will take a bit of research. However, to make the search easier and faster, you should know what to look for. To make your search and purchase stress-free, we broke down all the essential factors you should consider before becoming a vehicle owner.

Carefully Look Sticker Prices

Whether buying a new or used vehicle, this is a crucial factor to take into account. In general, the price of a new compact or subcompact four-wheeler with extra equipment ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. Typically, midsize machines cost between $20,000 and $35,000, perhaps even more. While the full-size vehicles start at around $25,000 and can include small SUVs and crossovers.

Although luxury vehicles are more expensive, entry-level ones may still be found for under $40,000. For instance, a new Acura compact won’t knock more than $20,000 out of your wallet. Just remember that make, model, age, overall condition, accident record, and whether the used car was bought from a dealership or a private seller are all factors that determine the price of used cars.

Consider Financing Options

Even after haggling, many college students lack the funds necessary to pay for a new car’s full retail price. However, people who have a sizable emergency fund or whose parents are ready to help out may be able to afford the down payment on a completely new machine (generally 10% to 20% of the sticker price, although frequently negotiable) or a sizeable portion of the price of a used car (if not the whole thing).

It’s ideal to put down as much money as you are able to because auto loan interest can significantly increase the overall cost of ownership. That’s why make sure you are capable of negotiating a car loan. As an alternative, think about leasing your vehicle rather than buying it outright if you can’t afford to pay cash.

Check Out Features and Additional Add-Ons

Every car type comes with a plethora of add-ons that are optional and can significantly raise the price. Don’t give in to the want to provide bells and whistles if cost is your main issue. However, some add-ons, like seat heaters and backup cameras, improve security and comfort. Models with a ton of deluxe features are likely to start out costing more.

Don't Forget Insurance Costs

The price of auto insurance varies depending on elements, including the value of the automobile, driving record, residence, local legislation, and the safety and security features of the car. Fortunately, there is a lot of competition in the auto insurance market, making it simple to compare prices online. Which will overall make the search for the best insurance for young drivers easier.

Efficiency and Safety Ratings Should Not be Forgotten

Gasoline costs change daily. Owners of gas-efficient vehicles benefit greatly when things are expensive. The distinction is less obvious when something is inexpensive. However, it goes without saying that fuel-efficient cars are always less expensive to own and operate than gas guzzlers.

That’s why pay special attention to the EPA mileage ratings when looking into different vehicle options. The ever-expanding selection of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are significantly more efficient than gas-only vehicles.

On top of efficiency, any buyer must prioritize safety. Many new vehicles, especially those in the higher price range, have safety features like emergency braking and lane drift warning systems that could save a person’s life. Every year, more expensive automobiles gain access to new safety features, which eventually filter down to more affordable vehicles.

Fees and Taxes Can Be Another Big Expense

Each state has its own requirements for title and registration fees, annual car taxes, and other recurring charges for vehicle owners. Those that shipped their car from some other state know the best how rules and taxes change when you want to register your vehicle.

When you purchase a brand-new car, the dealer normally includes the initial registration fee and title fee in the final price of the vehicle and takes care of all the documents. You are in charge of submitting the paperwork and paying the fees when you purchase used. In general, taxes and levies for vehicles are based on their assessed value.

Ford Ecosport Is One of the Best Affordable Cars for Students

This pint-sized and fuel-using crossover SUV might be seen as an heir to Ford’s discontinued Fiesta subcompact. The base model, which comes with an automatic transmission, a cozy four-door layout, and plenty of storage space, is reasonably priced, and you can get it at just under $20,000. Furthermore, the vehicle has respectable crash safety ratings for a car of its size.

For an entry-level SUV, the Ecosport offers an impressive array of options, like four-wheel drive, a strong engine, and high-performing tires and brakes. A strong entertainment system and relaxing ambient lighting are available inside features. Check out the video below to see how Ford Ecosport rolls on the streets.

Check Out Ford Ecosport’s Specifications

To ensure you have all the necessary information about this model, we broke down the main specifications every person should know about before becoming a car owner:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $19,995
Price Range For Used Car – From $1,500 to $11,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 27/29 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Marginal to good

Ford Ecosport can be an ideal solution for students looking for an affordable vehicle with some high performing features.

Hire the USA auto transport company to deliver this affordable but classy vehicle to you

Chevrolet Sonic Is a Small but Practical Vehicle

The Chevrolet Sonic is a compact four-wheeler with a choice of four-door sedan or hatchback body styles with basic manual or optional automatic transmissions. It is available in a number of various trims, each with a different price and set of features.

The safety features are one of the main selling points of this machine. Contrary to many tiny vehicles, it is jam-packed with available and standard equipment. Sonic’s Driver Confidence Package includes:

lane departure warning,
rear park assist,
forward collision alert,
10 airbags,
rear-view camera.

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Check Out Sonic’s Specifications

Before you even consider hiring a car shipping company to transport this machine to your home, let’s go over its specifications:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $16,720
Price Range For Used Car – From $3,000 to $13,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 26/36 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Good

If this intrigues you, check out the video below to see how the Sonic rolls on the streets.

If You Want a Small Classic SUV Get Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is a well-known little SUV with a tough body that can easily venture off the beaten path. Wranglers are a wonderful option for students who frequently pick up other people around their campuses and other locations.

The entry-level Sport package is certainly adequate for consumers on a budget. The Rubicon offers a number of features designed specifically for off-roading as well as a variety of driver-friendly amenities, like a potent infotainment system for more affluent students with larger budgets.

Check Out Wrangler’s Specifications

If all of these neat features inspired you to hire a car shipping company and use door-to-door auto transport to get this off-the-road beast to your home, get to know it better by checking out its specifications:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $31,815
Price Range For Used Car – From $2,000 to $35,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 22/29 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Ratings will depend on a trim

Jeep Wrangler can be a good vehicle for a city drive. However, it can also excel in off-road driving if that is the way you like to relax after a week of finals in school. Check out the video below to see how the car manages rainy terrain.

Mazda3 Is a Small Car With Above Average Safety Features

The Mazda3 is a well-liked compact automobile that is offered with front or all-wheel drive in hatchback and sedan body styles. Furthermore, it is very fuel-efficient.

The MAZDA CONNECT “infotainment” system and a seven-inch touchscreen display are among the good selection of entertainment and accessibility options inside. It also includes a higher-than-average number of safety measures for a compact car, such as a rear-view camera and an optional front accident prevention system.

Budget-conscious consumers have a wide selection of reasonable used options to pick from because the Mazda3 model was introduced in 2004.

Enclosed Auto Transport

Open Carrier Auto Transport

Check Out Specifications For Mazda3

Mazda might be one of the most popular imported brands of cars, but that doesn’t mean that you should throw your money as soon as you see one. Check out the specifications before deciding to become a Mazda3 owner:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $20,500
Price Range For Used Car – From $2,000 to $20,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 28/36 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Good

Before you start researching enclosed auto transport and terminal-to-terminal car shipping options, check out the video below and see how Mazda3 cruises the streets.

Toyota Yaris Comes in Hatchback and Sedan Versions

The Toyota Yaris comes in two versions – hatchback and sedan with manual six-speed or automatic transmissions. It features a surprisingly comprehensive safety package that includes:

lane departure alerts,
steering wheel entertainment controls,
automatic high beams,
hands-free Bluetooth calling system
pre-collision deterrent system.

Despite having five distinct trims, all of them are reasonably priced, making even high-end Yarises accessible to students on a tight budget. Additionally, there are many accessible, dependable vehicles on the road because the Yaris model has been available in the US for more than ten years.

Check Out Specifications For Toyota Yaris

Long before you start contemplating shipping cars in the USA, you should check out the specifications of the Toyota Yaris and see if the machine is exactly what you are looking for:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $15,560
Price Range For Used Car – From $2,000 to $12,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 32/40 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Marginal to good

If you are a student that lives in a big city, don’t worry, Toyota Yaris is a top-notch vehicle for the environment. So, no matter if you drive in Los Angeles or you are behind the wheel in New York City, you can rest assured that the car won’t fail you. Check out the video below to see it in action.

Honda CR-V Is an Affordable SUV

There are five different trim levels for the Honda CR-V SUV, all of which include automatic transmissions. You may pick between front-wheel and all-wheel drivetrain options depending on your trim and preferences, with the latter being the best option for drivers who live in cold, snowy locations (for example, those in Alaska) or who frequently want to travel on muddy surfaces.

Although it is marketed as a family four-wheeler, the CR-V is also perfect for students who have a lot of friends and plenty of stuff. It can seat five people in comfort and has plenty of storage in the back for luggage and equipment. Additionally, the CR-V offers a strong lineup of safety features, many of which are absent from cars with similar price tags.

Examples include lane-keeping assistance and departure warnings, as well as adaptive cruise control. Furthermore, it has a very high highway fuel economy rating for a crossover. If you are a beginner driver, this is a machine for you. Honda CR-V offers a comfy driving experience, no matter if you are behind the wheel during the night or just cruising the streets during the day. Check out the video below and see for yourself.

Check Out Specifications For Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V has a lot to offer to drivers, and its affordability is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out its specifications to see what makes it different than other vehicles:

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price – $25,350 (the price is for a car with base trim with no options)
Price Range For Used Car – From $2,000 to $26,000 depending on a condition
EPA Mileage of Sonic – 28/34 MPG
IIHS Crash Safety Mark – Average to good

Pro tip – if you are an environmentally friendly person that’s looking for an affordable “green” vehicle, you can’t go wrong with choosing the Hybrid CR-V model.

Approximately 366,380 CR-Vs are sold per year in US

Pick the Car That Fits Your Needs the Best

When all is said and done, there are undoubtedly more than just these car models available to college students. Your decision will ultimately depend on your own requirements, tastes, and personality. After all, loving your car is considerably more enjoyable than simply viewing it as a necessary evil.

When you finally pick the one that you want, all you have to do is find the best USA car shipping company to deliver it to your doorsteps, and then the enjoyment can begin!