10 Affordable Compact Vehicles for College Students

Unless you live on campus or near the college or university, chances are pretty good that you’re going to need some wheels to get around. Living on a college student income with a part-time job may limit what you’re able to purchase. Fortunately, there are plenty of choices for affordable compact vehicles, especially if you can get your parents to cosign on a loan.

Check out the 10 most affordable compact vehicles below so you can compare which make and model works best for you.

Ford EcoSport

A newer compact crossover, the Ford EcoSport has a MSRP around $20,000, which is comparable to compact cars but with more space and versatility. This model is loaded with options that you expect to find in more expensive models, such as four-wheel drive and ambient lighting.

Chevrolet Sonic

This compact sedan is ideal if you commute very far to school or just like to run around on weekends with your friends. With an estimated 34 MPG for highway driving, you won’t be spending as much money on fuel. If you like to go hiking and camping, this model is available in a hatchback as well. You can feel safe out on the highway with ten airbags, and numerous safety features.

Jeep Wrangler

If you like to take to the road less traveled or a sports car isn’t your thing, college might be the perfect time to own a rugged Jeep Wrangler to experience adventure. While this model is at a higher price point than the Ford EcoSport and Chevy Sonic, it’s still affordable if you don’t add a lot of options. Take off the roof and doors for an exciting ride into the unknown.

Mazda3

Here’s another sedan/hatch option with impressive fuel economy of around 36 MPG. Another bonus with this car that you won’t find with all models in the price range is the option of front- or all-wheel drive. MAZDA CONNECT includes a seven-inch touchscreen to keep you connected and entertained.

KIA Forte

The 2021 model was the US News & World Report winner for 2021 Best Compact Car for the Money, which is a selling feature for college students and their parents. Choose between the base four-cylinder engine and a turbo option, which offers up to 201 horsepower. You also have the option of either a six-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission.

Honda CR-V

Another compact SUV, this model from Honda provides an ideal combination of peppy performance and efficiency with up to 28 mpg for the city and 34 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive is available to increase the versatility of the model. The 2020 model won Best Compact SUV for the Money from US News & World Report, and the 2021 model is much the same. All trim levels include Honda Sensing for safety.

Toyota Corolla

Since this model won the title of 2020 Best Compact Car for the Money award and the 2020 Best New Cars for Teens award from US News & World Report, you know it is ideal for college students. This model is offered as either a sedan or hatchback to increase its versatility. Carpool with your friends with room for five and ample space for gear. It’s possible to get navigation and wireless charging with the trim you choose. Bottom line: this is one of the most affordable compact vehicles on the market. 

Ford Escape

A step up from the EcoSport, the Ford Escape offers more options if you want a little extra. Select between two engines for this compact SUV, including a turbo four-cylinder with 250 horsepower. Fold down the rear seats for an impressive 64.5 cubic feet of space, which is large enough to clear out your dorm when you graduate. Do homework from anywhere since this model acts as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Hyundai Elantra

This compact car features a compact price as well while offering impressive fuel efficiency. Get up to 41 mpg on the highway with the Eco trim. Connect your smartphone with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay while navigation will help you find the newest destinations for fun.

Nissan Kicks

For the buyer who likes the versatility of an SUV and the efficiency of a compact car, the Nissan Kicks delivers it all. Enjoy peppy performance with a 1.6L engine for 122 horsepower while getting up to 36 mpg on the highway. Even with the compact design, this model provides plenty of legroom for all five occupants. Get up to 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space to load up groceries or luggage for a weekend getaway.

With these ten options, you have plenty of choices for a new ride that won’t break the budget. Whether you want a stylish car or a practical SUV, you’ll find these models provide comfort, versatility, and some fun tech.