Best used cars for students: Affordable and reliable options

With the high cost of living and limited student housing, many students now commute to their universities. In places with poor public transport, having an affordable car is essential. However, most students can’t afford expensive cars or ones that don’t require a lot of maintenance.

That’s where our topic of the best cars for students comes in. In this guide, we’ll show you affordable cars that are also fuel-efficient and don’t need much parking space. Whether you’re a student looking for a budget-friendly ride or a parent helping your child choose wisely, these recommendations should make the decision easier.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget that Carplus has your back when it comes to buying your dream car on incredibly favourable terms!

1. Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa is an excellent option among student cars. While it may not be the most thrilling purchase, it offers numerous practical advantages. First and foremost, it’s easy to drive and well-made — a recipe for a hassle-free experience for novice drivers.

It doesn’t matter whether you primarily navigate urban streets or embark on longer journeys. From fuel-efficient 1.3-litre diesel versions to punchy turbocharged petrol options, the Corsa caters to everyone. It also delivers comfortable seating, ample wheel adjustment, and well-placed pedals.

Trim levels offer a range of amenities, with even the entry-level Corsa Life, including a heated windscreen, electric windows, and remote locking. As you move up the trim ladder, you’ll find additional perks. Those include bigger alloy wheels, cruise control, infotainment systems, heated seats, and more.

2. Škoda Citigo

The Škoda Citigo is a standout choice for young drivers. Despite its compact size, it boasts a surprisingly spacious interior, making it feel much larger than it appears. This makes it an ideal city car and perfectly suited for navigating tight urban spaces. And even in its older cars, the Citigo manages to maintain its value and practicality.

One of Citigo’s key advantages is its strong value proposition and low running costs. It comes with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine available in either 59bhp or 74bhp variants. The 74bhp option is recommended for those planning regular motorway journeys.

While entry-level S trim cars may have limited features, they still offer essential amenities. There is a decent boot with enough space for a weekly shopping trip. And you can fold the rear seats flat for more versatility.

3. Hyundai i10

With the i10, the company has kept prices low, making this more mature supermini competitive with less refined competitors.

The model offers two petrol engine options: a peppy 65bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit and a more robust 86bhp 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine. The smaller engine excels in urban environments. As expected, the larger one shines on A-roads and motorways and is more versatile for different driving needs. Despite its compact size, it offers a quiet and smooth ride, even rivalling larger, more luxurious cars.

Trim levels start with the entry-level S, which some find somewhat basic. That said, the SE model is particularly attractive for students. It includes air conditioning, a speed maintenance system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a DAB radio — a great value, overall.

Inside the Hyundai i10, you won’t find soft-touch plastics, but the cabin is well-assembled with high-quality materials.

4. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta is not just practical and has good value. It’s also a blast to drive, making it stand out in the competitive small car class. Few cars can match its agility on twisty roads, matching more expensive sports cars. Precise steering, ample grip, and nimble handling make every drive to the campus or elsewhere enjoyable.

Students can opt for petrol power with either a 1.1-litre engine delivering 69bhp or 84bhp or a more potent 1.0-litre three-cylinder Ecoboost engine. For those looking for diesel options, there’s a 1.5-litre engine with power outputs of 84bhp or 118bhp.

Even the entry-level Style models come with essentials. But the Zetec trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, fog lights, and a heated windscreen for added comfort. Inside, the Fiesta offers a decent amount of space and adjustable seating.

5. Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is up there with the most trusted small cars for students. It may not be the flashiest, but it’s a reliable choice with a wide range of used models available.

Driving the Polo is safe and comfortable, and it offers economical engines like the 1.0-litre petrol with 64bhp, 74bhp, or 79bhp, and a 1.6-litre diesel with 79bhp or 94bhp for excellent fuel economy.

Trim options include the basic S model, which is suitable for students but lacks some features. However, it does come with essentials like automatic emergency braking, electric front windows, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen.

Bear in mind that models fall into different insurance groups — 1 to 28. If you’re lucky, you’ll get the lowest insurance group.

6. Toyota Aygo

The Toyota Aygo is one of the best cars for students or anyone seeking the cheapest cars as their first car. Its funky appearance, combined with ultra-low running costs and a reputation for excellent reliability, make it an appealing choice.

The Aygo features small 1.0-litre engines that are easy on the wallet when it comes to the insurance cost. These engines also deliver impressive fuel efficiency. While the car may need a bit of effort to pick up speed, Aygo’s light and direct steering make it perfect for new drivers navigating city centres. It has a tight turning circle, too.

The Aygo offers seven trim levels. The entry-level models include 14-inch steel wheels, LED day-running lights, front electric windows, and USB connectivity. And upgrading to the next trim adds 15-inch steel wheels, heated door mirrors, air conditioning, a DAB radio, and Bluetooth.

7. Dacia Sandero

The Dacia Sandero has probably been the cheapest car you can get in the UK since its introduction. Remarkably, it’s an even more compelling option in the used car market. This affordability is made possible by Dacia’s affiliation with Renault.

When it comes to engines, there’s a basic 74bhp 1.2-litre petrol, but it’s not the most efficient. In 2017, Dacia replaced it with a better and more economical three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine with the same power.

The entry-level Access model is super affordable. It might be enough for student life, but it’s really basic, missing things like electric windows and a stereo or air conditioning. The Essential model, on the other hand, strikes a good balance.

The cabin and boot don’t offer a huge amount of space, but they provide enough room for passengers and essentials.

8. Kia Picanto

The Kia Picanto is a smart choice — an affordable yet upmarket-feeling car that proves reliable without draining your money.

Petrol engines, including a 66bhp 1.0-litre, an 83bhp 1.25-litre, or a turbocharged 99bhp 1.0-litre, are more popular with the model than the diesels. While the 66bhp 1.0-litre engine gets the job done, the 1.25-litre engine packs more punch and offers a smoother ride.

In terms of features, the Picanto is well-equipped. This is especially true in the mid-range 2 trim, which includes alloy wheels, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and a leather steering wheel. However, the infotainment system remains rather poor.

Despite its small exterior, the Picanto comfortably accommodates two adults or three children. The five-door version provides easier access compared to the three-door. On the other hand, the steering wheel lacks reach adjustment, and the boot space is relatively modest compared to rivals.

9. Škoda Fabia Hatchback

The Škoda Fabia Hatchback may not be the flashiest choice, especially with newer and trendier counterparts on the market. But it’s a decent student car that should not be underestimated.

If you’re hunting for the most budget-friendly Fabia, the 60hp 1.0-litre MPI version is an excellent pick. It may not offer significantly better fuel efficiency or lower CO2 emissions compared to the turbocharged TSI variants. Still, it comes with a more affordable price tag and low insurance groups — great for a first car.

On the road, the Fabia provides a composed and secure ride, even at higher speeds. It offers ample grip in corners and maintains low levels of wind and road noise.

Inside the Fabia, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed dashboard and an excellent driving position with good visibility. There’s ample space in the front and generous legroom and headroom in the rear.

10. Seat Ibiza Hatchback

The Seat Ibiza Hatchback is a solid and reliable car, earning its place on this list for a reason. It comes in both three and five-door versions, offering good interior space and a comfortable ride.

Initially, there were several engine choices. But later, the line-up was simplified to include 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines, along with a 1.6-litre diesel. The driving experience is enjoyable, with light steering, good grip, and predictable handling.

Entry-level models have essential features like Bluetooth and a 5.0-inch infotainment screen, while higher-tier versions offer extras like parking sensors and climate control. However, the top trims might be a bit costly for most students.

Inside, there’s enough space for two tall passengers in the rear. Just keep in mind that fitting three can be a bit cramped for longer trips.

11. Honda Jazz Hatchback

The Honda Jazz Hatchback is one of the most practical student cars out there. It offers a unique combination of small car benefits, such as easy handling and low running costs, along with the space and practicality you’d expect from a mini-MPV.

Around town, the Jazz provides the convenience you need. It delivers a safe and predictable driving experience, with light steering that’s perfect for city commuting. But its ride can be a bit unsettled at low speeds, reacting to road imperfections.

Another thing to note is the noise level. As you accelerate, the engine noise becomes more pronounced, especially with the 1.5-litre unit. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a different story — plenty of space and comfort, even for taller adults. The rear seats are generous in terms of headroom and shoulder room.

12. Citroën C3

The Citroën C3 is good for young drivers looking for a small car and a funky design. Its unique looks alone make it a desirable option among its rivals.

On the road, the C3 impresses with a quiet and comfortable ride; there is almost a big car feel when cruising on the motorway. Maneuvering through city streets is effortless. What adds to this appeal is the range of engines with budget-friendly running costs.

You can choose from a 1.1-litre with 61bhp, a 1.4-litre with 75bhp, and the popular 1.4-litre VTi engine with 95bhp. The latter is known for its peppy performance, especially in city traffic. For those seeking diesel, there’s the 1.6 HDi with 110bhp. Plus, there’s even a low-emissions Airdream+ version that qualifies for free road tax.

Additionally, the C3 offers a big boot for a car of its size.

13. Renault Clio

The Renault Clio is a stylish and modern car that not only looks good but also offers great value for your money. It comes with two engine options, a 1.5-litre diesel and a 0.9-litre petrol, both delivering 88bhp for a balance of performance and efficiency.

Even the base Expression model is well-equipped, featuring Bluetooth, USB connectivity, cruise control, electric windows, and heated mirrors. If you go for the top Signature Nav trim, you’ll enjoy extras. These include TomTom-powered sat-nav, more speakers, front parking sensors, a reversing camera, Android auto, and part-leather upholstery.

It may not match some of the key competitors in ride comfort or handling. Nevertheless, the Clio comes close with a good grip and enjoyable handling. It also has enough cargo space to fit a couple of large suitcases.

Final words: What is the best used student car?

While the idea of a shiny new car might be tempting, there are other cost-effective options to consider. For an average student and their parent, the buzzword is “cheap.” So, the best cars for students are usually pre-owned vehicles. With proper research (starting with this article) and inspection, you can find a used car that provides the reliability you need for daily commuting and weekend adventures.

That said, it’s crucial to carefully consider monthly payments and monthly finance options to ensure that the chosen vehicle fits within the budget. Sure, opting for a pre-owned car is a financially responsible decision. But it’s only truly cost-effective when you take into account all associated expenses.

Carplus is your key to securing a fantastic deal on your next car purchase. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to drive away in an affordable yet terrific car with Carplus by your side!