Have a Student Driver? Check Out Our Top 10 List of Best Cars for New Drivers!

1. The Ford Escape- One of the most fun to drive and safety efficient SUV’s on the market currently. The Ford Escape won’t break the bank when it comes to gas mileage and there’s plenty of room to move items to and from home (because you know that’s going to happen multiple times). 


 

2. The Jeep Compass- The Jeep Compass often comes equipped with all wheel OR four-wheel drive, making driving in snow and rain easier on the mind and the car. It can handle well on rough terrain and has a lot of storage space for the inevitable grocery trips when mom and dad come to visit.  


 

3. The Dodge Dart- Back when this car came out in 1974, it often came with a surfboard...and we don’t know that says college student more than that! Smaller, efficient with gas mileage, handles well in all weather, AND with a sporty edge, the Dodge Dart is the perfect car for any college student or first-time driver.  


 

4. Chrysler PT Cruiser- This is a great first car for any new driver or college student. Retro styled with the convenience of a wagon, the Chrysler PT Cruiser is a perfect size ride with lots of space, but not too much. Awesome safety features and good gas mileage are always a bonus, too. 


 

5. Ram Pick-Up Line- Ram is one of the best full-sized trucks currently on the market. In any trim level, the Ram truck is top in safety, often equipped with four-wheel drive and towing capabilities. With a roomy cabin inside and lots of space in the back, this is any college student’s dream! 


 

6. Jeep Wrangler- Let’s be honest...who doesn’t want a Jeep Wrangler? The freedom meshed with the idea of a Jeep Wrangler is a calling card to free spirited college students everywhere. Parents can feel secure because of not only the height advantage over a traditional car, but 4x4 drive and terrain options. College students will love it because it can be versatile like an SUV or a convertible with off road options. 


 

7. The Ford Ranger- We can’t tell you how glad we are Ford decided to bring back this classic truck. It’s the perfect size with a powerful engine and all the amenities of a full-sized truck. Smaller in stature, but much more efficient in gas mileage for the long trips from campus back home. 


 

8. Dodge Neon- The Dodge Neon is the cream of the crop when it comes to first time car owners and college students. The last model was made in 2016 so there’s still plenty of them left in the wild. Often priced perfectly, the Dodge Neon can handle the stress of daily driving and long commutes. It is an efficient compact car that has outstanding performance and economic value. Gas mileage is fantastic too.

 
 

9. Chrysler 200- The Chrysler 200 is a mid-sized sedan with an often very luxurious feel and an affordable price tag. With state-of-the-art safety features and lots of spaciousness, the Chrysler 200 won’t break the bank either. The last model was made in 2016 but you can still easily get your hands on one as a perfect used car for a college student or first-time driver. 


 

10. Ford Focus- The Ford Focus is the collaborative definition of a first-time car for college students and new drivers everywhere. Incredibly gas efficient and fantastic safety features, the Ford Focus won’t break the bank and the reliability is unmatched in the Ford industry. 2020 was the last year that the Ford Focus was made but many of them are still readily available.