Real-World Rides: 10 Best Cars for College Grads
2014–’19 Kia Soul: “While the Kia Soul is all-new for 2020 and might be a bit out of price range, the outgoing second-generation model is affordable, spacious, and reliable when it comes to safety and style.”
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Photo courtesy Kia Motors Corp.
2015–’19 Honda Fit: “Don’t be fooled by the Fit’s subcompact proportions! This vehicle has a huge reconfigurable interior with a backseat that is roomier than several cars that are a size bigger.”
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Photo courtesy American Honda Motor Co.
2016–’19 Toyota Prius: “While the Toyota Prius might not be the coolest-looking vehicle to impress your date, it is simply one of the most practical a recent grad can buy. Equipped with safety features, decent sized cargo area, and affordability, the Toyota Prius is a great option.”
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Photo courtesy Toyota Motor Sales USA
2015–’19 GMC Canyon: “The GMC Canyon is a great option for college graduates who like the idea of a truck, but don’t want something that is too big and thirsty for gas. Beware: Your friends might call you when it’s time to move out of their dorm after the festivities!”
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Photo courtesy General Motors Co.
2018–’19 Subaru Crosstrek: “Offering a light off-roader with better road manners, the Subaru Crosstrek comes with symmetrical all-wheel drive, spacious back seats, and good gas mileage. This car is perfect if you want to go camping with a couple of friends and not worry about how much you’ll have to spend at the pump.”
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Photo courtesy Subaru of America Inc.
2017–’19 Mazda CX-5: “As a class leader, the Mazda CX-5 will make drivers feel like they’re in a much more expensive vehicle from the smooth ride, sharp handling, and roomy, comfortable seats.”
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Photo courtesy Mazda USA
2016–’19 Chevrolet Volt: “With an impressive all-electric range of 53 miles and a modern interior, the Chevy Volt is a fantastic plug-in hybrid that is perfect for environmentally conscious drivers or anyone trying to save on fuel costs.”
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Photo courtesy General Motors Co.
2016–’19 Hyundai Tucson: “Featuring a roomy, quiet interior and high reliability ratings, the Hyundai Tucson is the best bang for your buck in a used compact SUV.”
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Photo courtesy Hyundai Motor Co.
2015–’19 Ford Mustang: “The Ford Mustang began its current generation in 2015 with big improvements on the interior design and quality. Available as a coupe or convertible with automatic or manual transmission, the Ford Mustang is a great way for a college graduate to enjoy a quick, sporty car before family life kicks in.”
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Photo courtesy Ford Motor Co.
2012–’17 Jeep Wrangler: “Making its way on the market well before these graduates were in middle school, the Jeep Wrangler JK generation is perfect for young adults who want to do some off-roading and like the classic utilitarian look. The vehicle received an update in 2012 to feature a more powerful V6 engine, automatic transmission, and standard four-wheel drive.”
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Photo courtesy Fiat Chrysler Automobiles