Buying your first car marks one of the most exciting times of a young adult’s life and, for a college student, it may be the start of genuine independence and adulthood.

Many today work and ride public transportation or use a family car during their early driving years. 

When choosing a vehicle, it is important to consider things like the size of the engine, safety ratings, and other common measures of quality that can be confusing. You also have to keep in mind your realistic budget, the local market, and other personal preferences. So don’t shy away from bringing someone with an in-depth knowledge of cars along with you to help with the process.

Usually, when people seek to get their first car, they look for something affordable, reliable and small. These options offer all of those alongside their own unique perks.

Here are a few cost effective options that you can consider for your first car purchase.

1. Honda Fit

The Honda Fit is a subcompact car that offers good gas mileage and practicality while being comfortable and spacious. The car offers a very reasonable price point ranging from a little over $1 million to around $3.5 million for the newer models.

2. Mazda Demio

When it comes to mechanical dependability, Mazda is tough to beat. And, the Demio has done nothing to harm this excellent reputation: it’s one of Mazda’s most reliable cars of this age, so buyers can rely on bullet-proof dependability.

Prices range from $900,000 to about $1.3 million. Any prices significantly lower should warrant investigations for major mechanical issues.

3. Nissan Tiida

This model can be bought for less than $1 million in decent condition. As an overall inexpensive and reliable choice, it easily makes for a good fit. 

4. Suzuki Swift

With its high fuel efficiency and timeless design, the Swift is a highly popular choice.

Prices may range from $1.3 million to over $3 million, making it a more expensive choice, alongside the Honda Fit, on the list. It comes with low cost of spares and the added advantage of great resale value, which may aid buyers in recovering a huge chunk of the initial investment when selling the vehicle.

5. Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is a very good car overall and an excellent choice. It stands out for its incredible real-world fuel economy and impressive reliability record.

Just like the others, the Yaris is inexpensive with its price range going from less than $1 million to approximately $2 million. However, it is relatively small, being 85 cubic feet compared to the Honda Fit’s 95.7 cubic feet.

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