Cool small cars for students and graduates

When you’re a student or a graduate, getting onto the car-owning ladder isn’t easy. With insurance premiums at an all-time high and a budget to look after, you’re likely to be looking at something small, economical and practical. We know that you don’t want that to come at the expense of fun, though, so we’ve put together a list of cool small cars for students and graduates which will allow you to keep both your wallet and your reputation intact.

1. MINI Cooper

When you talk about small cool cars, the MINI has been at the top of the tree for the best part of half a century. Sure, it’s not quite the same MINI as the first one, but it’s better in many ways. The retro touch is still definitely there in the new interior, but with the addition of air-con, Bluetooth and DAB radio.

2. Volkswagen Polo

The younger brother of the Golf, the new VW Polo is a solid car with low running costs, lots of tech (Bluetooth, USB connectivity, DAB radio) with very impressive fuel economy and CO2 outputs, keeping the costs low.

3. Audi A1

Towards the top of the price bracket to buy, but this is definitely a premium car in its sector. What’s more, you’ll be saving money on running costs. Insurance is higher than most, but the 1.6 TDI qualifies for free road tax and fuel economy is sure to impress.

4. Hyundai i20

Definitely one to consider if you’re on a tight budget, the new i20 comes with more space, a lower ride height for a sportier feel and LED running lights to help boost that stylish look which Hyundai has been courting more recently.

5. Alfa Romeo MiTo

For real driving purists, you can’t get much better than an Alfa. The Alfa MiTo is one of the coolest looking superminis on the market, and the new facelift version offers more power without blowing the budget, either. The 1.3-litre version is tax exempt, and you’re likely to get very good fuel economy and low running costs — something to offset the high starting price.

If you’re planning to get rid of your new car fairly quickly, you’ll want one that’s cheaper to buy but has a decent residual value — the Polo, perhaps. But for a long-term investment, the Alfa MiTo ticks all the boxes. More than anything, though, the choice on offer from all manufacturers is seriously impressive.

Tags: small cars, Student cars

Category: Travel