JoshIt can be pretty frustrating to be a student in this day and age. Whether you’ve battled online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic or are facing the cost-of-living crisis during your first term of university, things may be seeming a little rough.
Something a lot of students are conflicted about is whether or not to have a car. Can I afford it? Is it worth it? Which car would I get? These are questions that may be running through your head, especially if you’ve recently passed your test and are desperate to get back on the roads.
Well, you’re in luck, as we’ve put together a list of four cheap and efficient cars for students in 2022. Listen up!
#1: Volkswagen up!
Awarded City Car of the Year by Auto Express four years running, the Volkswagen up! is a very solid choice for a student car. Available in a petrol or electric version, this car’s key appeal is its low price. Sitting in insurance group one or two, the standard petrol model has a 1 litre engine which produces 64bhp and promises a return of up to 55 mpg. Despite being small and nifty, don’t think these cars skimp on their features. 2022 models include electronic stability control, multiple airbags, air-conditioning, and a DAB radio with Bluetooth connectivity.
#2: KIA Picanto
The latest KIA Picanto model is definitely a step up from its predecessors. The Picanto now boasts a lot of fun features including electric windows, automated lights, USB inputs, soundproofing, and even hill start assist – a valuable tool for new drivers! They’re also one of the cheapest cars to own, with low price-tags, fuel consumption that tops 50mpg, and low insurance costs. Kias are also renowned for their seven-year or 100,000 mile warranties, so any maintenance issues you have can be repaired for free – what’s not to like?
#3: Vauxhall Corsa
Vauxhall Corsas are extremely popular in the UK, with people from all walks of life making them the best-selling car in the country. They are particularly good for young and student drivers. Corsas are cheap to buy and run, but are still aesthetically pleasing, sporty in their features, and include a generous chunk of new technology like Apple CarPlay and ‘city mode’ – perfect for parking in tight spots and navigating busy student areas. Choose from a 1.2 litre petrol model, a 1.5 diesel, or their fully electric option if you’re looking to future-proof.
#4: Fiat 500
You might not be aware that from 2030, the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned in the UK. With this in mind, it may make sense to start as you mean to go on by opting for a fully electric model. If this is the case, the latest Fiat 500 model should most certainly be on your radar. As far as electric vehicles go, this is one of the smallest and cheapest. For maximum range, go for the 42kWh battery, which promises a range of up to 199 miles before needing a recharge.
Where can I get these cars?
We’ve recommended the latest models of these cars for maximum cost-efficiency, cheapest insurance and zero road tax fees. No doubt plenty of students won’t have the means to pay for these cars outright, but finance options are available and are very popular among young drivers.
No matter where you’re studying, companies like LMC Cars are here to secure your car finance across the UK. LMC Cars are passionate about helping new drivers find the right finance deal for their needs and budgets. They offer fantastic customer service, which is backed up by over 100 independent five-star reviews on Trustpilot. Their staff are SAF approved experts and their vehicles are CFG quality assured. The best part? No deposit finance deals are available if you’re on a particularly low budget – the only payment you will need to make is the approved monthly cost.
Head to the website of your favoured car finance broker or lender today if we’ve piqued your interest in the Volkswagen up!, KIA Picanto, Vauxhall Corsa, or Fiat 500. Make the right choice of car and car finance specialist, and you’ll be turning up to university with your brand-new vehicle before you know it.