What are the best cars for students? Generally, student cars are compact, affordable and cheap to run and insure. With these three features in mind, we’ve put together a list of the top student-friendly cars in the UK. There’s something for everyone, so take a look and get inspired!

Volkswagen Polo

Cute and compact, it’s hard to look past the Volkswagen Polo when it comes to the best cars for students. It’s small enough to squeeze into those tiny parallel parking spots that can be a lifesaver when you’re running late for class, yet spacious enough to whisk your friends away on a weekend road trip.

The small engine won’t just save you money at the forecourt. It also keeps you in a low insurance bracket. This means more cash to spend on nights out with your crew.

Fiat 500

The pocket-sized Fiat 500 is ideal for students looking for a combination of style and functionality. Like the Volkswagen Polo, manoeuvring into impossibly small parking spaces is a cinch. It also performs well when it comes to CO2 emissions, making it a great pick if you’re studying environmental science. Road taxes and insurance are low, yet another perk that makes the Fiat 500 one of the best cars for students.

Dacia Sandero

Got your heart set on a brand-new car? The Dacia Sandero is one of the most affordable new cars in the UK. Prices for showroom models start at £13,795, which puts the Dacia Sandero well within the reach of students. The company recently revamped the model from the wheels up, which means you’ll enjoy a suite of luxury features – all with a surprisingly low price tag. We’re talking sleek LED headlights, emergency brake functionality and hill start assist, a huge bonus for new drivers who aren’t confident taking off on vertigo-inducing roads. If you attend the University of Bristol or the City of Bristol College, you’ll know what we’re talking about!

Of course, not too many students have the cash to purchase a new car outright. This is where auto finance steps up. At My Car Credit, we specialise in getting students behind the wheel of their dream car. Read up on car finance eligibility on our website to find out more.

Ford Fiesta

Shopping for second-hand models? The Ford Fiesta has been around for decades, which makes it one of the best cars for students on a budget. You’ll see loads of these best-selling models on the used market, whether you’re based at Imperial College London or the University of Edinburgh. A used Ford Fiesta won’t necessarily turn heads, but it will deliver on comfort, safety and style. These cars are also cheap to insure, run and repair – another huge bonus for budget-conscious students.

If you’re in the market for a new car, the new-generation Ford Fiesta will dazzle you with a digital instrument cluster and clever features, like pre-set options for different drivers. This is perfect if you’ll be sharing your Ford Fiesta with a partner.

Kia Picanto

With showroom prices starting at ‎£13,415, the Kia Picanto is an attractive option for first-time buyers. Price isn’t the only thing to love about this compact city car. Fuel efficiency of up to 58.9 MPG means fewer trips to the petrol station. If you’re tossing up between running a car or purchasing a bus pass for your time at university, it’s worth crunching the numbers to see if a fuel-efficient vehicle like the Kia Picanto is a better option. CO2 emissions start at 110 g/km, which makes the Kia Picanto one of the best cars for students who want to reduce their environmental footprint.

Considering the price, you get loads of high-end features. Think Bluetooth® connectivity for music streaming and a USB port for on-the-go charging. If you’re open to increasing your budget, Kia Picanto GT-Line will turn heads on campus with a sleek and sporty aesthetic. The icing on the cake? A seven-year/100,000 mile warranty means there’s every chance you’ll still be zipping around in your Kia Picanto long after you’ve graduated.

Hyundai i10 

Whether you’re looking for a new model or browsing the second-hand market, the Hyundai i10 is one of the best cars for students. It may look small on the outside but the Hyundai i10 can comfortably seat five adults. In fact, the latest model boasts an extra 40mm of width between the wheels. This makes it feel even roomier than previous generations.

Young drivers can’t get enough of the best-in-class connectivity, including features like a wireless charging pad (if you add on a Tech Pack or upgrade your trim). All models come with Bluetooth® connectivity and wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, so you can blast your favourite tunes on your way to campus. Whether it’s Ed Sheeran or The Smiths, high quality speakers ensure you don’t miss a beat.

Secure the keys to your new set of wheels today

Now you know more about the best cars for students, it’s time to take the plunge and pick your favourite. Whether you’re in the market for a shiny new Dacia Sandero with all the upgrades or a pre-owned Ford Fiesta with an irresistible price tag, we have you covered with tailored car finance solutions designed especially for students.

Give us a call on 01246 458 810 to chat to a friendly representative or email us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out more.