Looking for the best used vehicle for legendary college-era road trips this summer? This guide covers reliable and affordable options that prioritize fun, comfort, and safety. Whether your destination is nearby or hours away, these vehicles will get you there and back again—on your ideal continental budget trip for students—without a hitch.
Quick Study Guide for College Road Trip Vehicle Selections
- Older used Honda CR-V models or a well-used Subaru Outback are among the best thoroughly-used vehicles for college-aged road trips (assuming you got a good deal for them) due to their reliability, space, and comfort.
- Key features to consider when choosing a road trip vehicle include comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and safety features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
- Budget-friendly options are available for under $15,000, making vehicles like last decade’s Toyota Camry Hybrid and a newer used Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, or yesteryear’s Kia Sorento great picks for students on a budget.
- Brand new Kia or Ford vehicles often provide a best-value alternative if the used selection you’ve found isn’t quite what you’re looking for—or if new car smell is all part of the aesthetic.
The Usual Suspects: Which Used Vehicles to Choose for College Road Trips
When it comes to road trips, reliability and comfort are non-negotiable. Whether you’re packing up for a weekend at the beach or heading to the mountains for some fresh air, these used cars and a pickup truck will get car shoppers there and back without a hitch. In fact, cars tend to be the best option for such journeys.
Here are our top picks for the best used cars for college road trips in this day and age. These vehicles combine reliability, fuel economy, and a pleasant driving experience.
Used Honda CR-V
The used Honda CR-V is a small SUV that checks all the boxes for a perfect road trip vehicle. With its 39.2 cu. ft. cargo area and comfort-focused suspension, it’s ideal for packing all your gear and hitting the road.
It also safely features lane departure warning technology, alerting drivers if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane, providing that peace of mind you and your friends (and family back home) require.
Used Subaru Outback
For adventure seekers, the older used Subaru Outback is a perfect choice. This versatile SUV features all-wheel drive and advanced safety features like lane departure warning systems, making it perfect for tackling both city streets and off-road trails.
Its low-lying cargo space ensures you can bring all your gear along for the ride, with a comfortable seat on the tail gate.
Used Toyota Camry
An older Toyota Camry Hybrid is a reliable, fuel-efficient sedan option. Known for its comfortable ride, 33 highway MPG average in recent years and spacious interior, this midsize sedan is perfect for long road trips.
Its high safety ratings and fuel efficiency save money on gas and enhance road safety. Additionally, it has received the IIHS top safety pick designation.
Used Mazda CX-5
The used Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV known for its fun-to-drive characteristics and superior handling. Its stylish design and refined interior make it both visually appealing and comfortable for passengers.
Navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, the Mazda CX-5 provides a pleasant driving experience for daily driving.
Used Kia Sorento
Newer used Kia Sorento models stand out for reliability and overall performance as part of the midsize SUV category. With spacious 3-row seating, it’s an excellent choice for group travel, whether you’re hitting the road with friends or family. Advanced driver assistance features enhance safety, even when you’re relying on Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go ensuring a smooth and stress-free ride.
Best Value Picks
Be sure to shop around wherever it’s convenient and well-stocked! Buying used vehicles saves money compared to new ones due to high prices. If you’re up for a little hunting or trusting a sales advisor, any top used cars available in the $15,000 range usually offer impressive fuel efficiency and reliability, making them excellent value-picks.
Some of the best options include an older Acura ILX, a newer used Chevrolet Volt, and a well-used Honda Civic, all of which have been tailored for different needs and lifestyles. These premium vehicles bought used save money while providing a reliable and safe driving experience.
Key Features to Look for in a Road Trip Vehicle
When choosing a vehicle for a college road trip, prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and safety features. A comfortable vehicle enhances the overall experience during long travels, while good fuel economy helps you save money on gas.
Ample cargo space is essential for transporting luggage and gear, and advanced safety features provide peace of mind on the road.
Cargo Space for Road Trips
Having ample cargo space is essential for road trips, especially when you need to transport luggage and gear. Last decade’s Honda CR-V, for example, is recognized for its significant cargo space, making it an excellent option for carrying everything you need for your adventure. A spacious cargo area allows you to pack all essentials comfortably—without taking up the passenger space of your classmates!
Bluetooth Connectivity & Infotainment
Modern used cars often feature advanced technology and connectivity that significantly enhance the road trip experience. Infotainment systems that integrate with smartphones and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and music streaming make travel more enjoyable and convenient.
Bluetooth connectivity is vital for modern drivers, offering wireless access to smartphone features while driving. This functionality allows drivers to make hands-free calls and stream music directly from their smartphones, enhancing safety and entertainment.
Streaming music via Bluetooth, especially with Apple Carplay or Android Auto, enhances entertainment value of the trip, making the journey more enjoyable for you and your friends. Newer used models infotainment centers from the latter half or so of the past decade are best for “passing the aux.”
Financing Options
Exploring various financing options is essential for students looking to purchase a used car. Loans with low-interest rates and manageable repayment plans suit budget-conscious buyers. Leasing can be a suitable option for international students, often requiring lower monthly payments and providing access to newer vehicles without tying you down.
At the end of the day, students should budget for total ownership costs, including insurance and maintenance, to avoid financial strain.
Maintenance Costs
Considering maintenance costs is crucial for avoiding unexpected expenses during road trips and ensuring budget management. Vehicles like the last decade’s Subaru Outback and the older Honda CR-V are some of my selections due to their reliability and low maintenance costs, making them decent choices for long trips and a useful life back home.
Routine maintenance for vehicles like the Mazda CX-5 models aren’t in the shop much, and a Kia Sorento cost to repair typically ranges between $533 annually, highlighting their affordability in different ways. Evaluating both maintenance costs and vehicle reliability ensures a worry-free road trip experience.
Other Great Models Affordable Enough to Buy New
Besides the usual top picks, several other models, new or used, from Kia stand out for their reliability and value for students, outpacing many rivals—particularly in the category of new cars for college students.
The Kia Sportage, Telluride, and Soul balance loyal sales, good resale value, strong reliability, and awards. These models cover different segments; compact SUV, large SUV, and station wagon SUV are all appealing to diverse used car buyers.
Whether you choose a new Ford, a compact SUV like the Sportage or a larger Kia like the Telluride, these vehicles are excellent new cars for road trips from your college to a summer break destination. They will also serve you well when it comes time to graduate and start commuting to areas in San Diego where you find work, not just studies.
Summary
Choosing the right used car for a college road trip involves considering factors like fuel economy, cargo space, comfort, and safety features. Vehicles like barely-used Honda CR-V models, an older Subaru Outback, and a well-used Toyota Camry offer a blend of reliability, comfort, and advanced technology, making them ideal for long-distance travel. Advanced safety features and modern connectivity options further enhance the road trip experience, ensuring both safety and convenience. But let me reiterate.
Safety first! Please prepare for any highway scenario on the highway. A good safety suite in your vehicle is step one but knowing what to do is all-important.
Ultimately, the best used car for your road trip will depend on your specific needs and budget. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, prioritizing fuel efficiency, or planning group travel, there’s a perfect vehicle out there for you. So, buckle up, hit the road, and make unforgettable memories with the right used (or new) car at the ready.
