Cars for First Time Owners
Whether you just got your license, are heading to college, or simply living on your own, it may be time to become an official car owner. There are many options for used cars, but in general first time owners want something affordable, good looking, fuel efficient, and roomy enough for your friends. Here are some top model used cars that exceed the requirements:
2004 Honda Civic Hybrid
The Civic has a Manufacturer's retail price of $19,008 to $20,800, and an estimated KBB Retail Price of $20,745. One of the best options for a used car that is fuel efficient, the Civic hybrid gets 51 mpg on the highway and 46 mpg in the city. This hybrid design is powered through gas and electricity, and is great for a first time buyer who is concerned about affording the high gas prices. Still, it has a strong build to it, with the chassis of a regular sports sedan. Its also got a reputation for safety,
durability, and reliability, bonus points for not only first time buyers, but anyone.
2004 Volkswagen Golf
A Volkswagen with a Manufacturer's retail price between $15,580 and $19,320, the Golf offers an affordable package from a European brand. The Golf was originally designed to replace the beetle, Volkswagen’s ‘people car’. This used car is considered to be the car that pioneered the hatchback into the American market. The Golf’s price may be higher then most first time buyer cars, but it gives out plenty of value, including shoulder straps for every seatbelt and airbags. The mileage is decent, but take it a step further with the diesel to get 50 miles per gallon on the highway. This version of the used car costs slightly more, but it also comes with the same turbo-charged engine that comes standard in other larger Volkswagen cars. The Golf gives 115 horsepower, a little on the low side, but it’s good torque rescues the throttle performance. It can still go from 0 to 60 in 8.2 seconds, and is as powerful as many of the six-cylinder engines, likely satisfying the need for power in those first time car owners.
2004 Saturn ION
This has a Manufacturer's retail price of $10,430 - $19,820, and an estimated KBB Retail Price of $11,765. The Ion comfortably seats five passengers, and has four doors with easy in and out movements. This used car gives a sport look that many first time owners want. It has a 2.2 liter engine that generates 140 horsepower, not extreme power, but enough. The Ion gets 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on the highway. It may looks like a small sedan, but it gives big cargo area, and is in truth one of the biggest in its class. A big plus is it has dent
resistant panels, possibly reducing costly repairs. This used car is set apart from others like it though, Saturn is a company that actually focuses on the first-time buyer. So everything in the design is specific for you.
2004 Mazda3
The Manufacturer's retail price is between $13,680 & $17,105, and the Estimated KBB Retail Price is $15,205. The Mazda3 gets a more than adequate 28 to 35 miles per gallon. The used car has plenty of zip, with a standard engine offering 148 horsepower. Where space may be a concern for a first time car owner, the Mazda3 delivers. The hatchback design may not have the largest trunk in its class of used cars, it does have a back seat that can be flipped forward rather easily, giving you versatility that will make a big difference. The Mazda3 handles well, it is a comfortable ride and offer pleasurable driving. Some Mazda3s come with a leather seat option to make this an even more desirable used car.
2004 Toyota Corolla
With a Manufacturer's retail price between $13,680 and $17,455, and an estimated KBB Retail Price of $14,675, the Corolla is a very affordable used car. This vehicle ranks in the top for reliability and affordability. The basic model even comes standard with a CD player, air conditioning and a tilt-steering column. It does have some style to it, but not the most. Used car buyers will get 130 hp from the 1.8-liter engine, along with 32 miles per gallon in the city and nearly 40 on the highway. If you are one who needs more power, you can upgrade, and spend a little more money, by finding the Corolla XRS. This version offers a sportier look and goes 0 to 60 in 8 seconds. This used car is one that is proud of its lengthy reliability span, as it should last for many years without too many expensive repairs.
There are so many options out there for first time car owners, or any used car buyers for that matter. It can be overwhelming to find just the right used car. These vehicles are a step in the right direction, and will stand up to the test of young people’s expectation.