Going to college can be rough mentally, physically and especially financially. KBB takes the opportunity every year to release a selection of cars that are perfect for students thanks to their practicality. and more importantly, price. This list of 10 cars are available for less than 16-grand according to KBB’s Fair Purchase Price metric. If you are headed to school, or have a loved one who is, please feel free to check out the full list of winners below, along with a gallery of photos for each.
10. 2012 Nissan Versa
The Versa was honored for its title of lowest priced car in America, and for its surprising amount of interior space.
9. 2012 Toyota Yaris
The Yaris was given space on this list thanks to Toyota’s legendary dependability and its quirky good looks.
8. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
KBB has chosen the Jetta for its European aesthetics and feel, but warns buyers that the base engine is under-powered at only 115 horsepower.
7. 2012 Fiat 500
The Fiat garnered praise for its trim dimensions and unmistakable style.
6. 2012 Mazda 3
Number six on the list is the ever lovable Mazda3. KBB likes the little compact good looks and impressive driving dynamic.
5. 2012 Honda Fit
Since its introduction to the market, the fit has garnered praise for its impressive versatility. The Fit starts the upper half of KBB’s list thanks to this flexible seating/storage arrangement and Honda’s storied reliability.
4. 2012 Ford Fiesta
The diminutive Ford has been given the nod thanks to its frugal 40 mpg rating and 7 standard airbags.
3. 2012 Chevy Sonic
Winning the bronze is Chevy’s new smart hatch. It’s sporty design, vibrant color choices, a driving manners have propelled the little hatch to KBB’s podium.
2. 2012 Hyundai Accent
With an updated exterior, and a new more powerful engine, the 2012 Accent has garnered the approval of KBB. it’s industry leading 10 year warranty didn’t hurt things much either.
1. 2012 Kia Soul
The winner of this year’s Back-to-school extravaganza is the Kia Soul. With its funky looks, piles of standard equipment and impressive space the little Kia has always been a great choice. For 2012 a few visual upgrades and a slight power bump were enough to push it to the front of the pack.
