College Car

The new Corolla would be nice but the C is good for a person looking to save on gas. I would honestly get the Corolla if a lot of highway driving is needed even though the C is more capable than high way speeds.

 

I vote for the C, but, freely admit that I'm prejudiced. I believe the C offers lower operating costs, with the fold down seats will allow more useful cargo carrying space, and its smaller size will allow easier parking in a crowded college/university campus setting. Additionally the C is cooler!!! Regarding the "College of I Cost Too Much" you have my sympathy. My daughter just completed dental school at a prestigious New England university, and some say our national debt is too high.

 

I would want the coolest car I can get my hands on. Since you've narrowed it down to three, let him decide which of the 3. It's his car

 

are they the same price?

 

Whatever it is, it should be a hatchback.

 

3 good choices, can't go wrong with any of the 3. Compare Side-by-Side
I like the Toyota Corolla LE Eco, but college kids need to carry things from IKEA , so I would go for the Hatch.

I would also consider a 2012 Gen III Toyota Certified used.

 

I really like The Honda Fit. Very versatile.
But if we are talking brand new? I'd also say I like the previous generation Honda Fit better than the latest.

Also if we are talking brand new, I think The Toyota Corolla looks great.

Those are basically 3 pretty good/safe choices. I think I'd go with the Corolla if I was looking at new. Honda Fit if I wanted a good car from the previous generation.

 

I am also in the market for a new car(for retirement not college).

The Fit is one of the ones on my list. If you haven't already seen it, there is a forum similar to Prius Chat called Fit Freaks. Most of the people there seem to be happy with the new Gen 3 Fits. But, there do seem to be quite a few more complaints about problems than I see on this forum. Perhaps it is because of new first year for this gen, and first year for the new factory in Mexico. May be worth checking out.

 

i would be concerned about mexican assembly.

 

If I identified as a Mexican, I would be seriously offended

 

understood. the truth sometimes hurts. i have been in two industries where production in mexico was moved to china, due to qc.

 

Honda CRV too (probably just the lower end model)

 

say no more, case closed.

 

You have been given great advice and I think all the bases are covered, good luck with your choice, I think you are safe with any of your top 3

 

Nissan Versa Note is another choice.

 

I would expect Honda to work out the new factory, new gen quality problems, but yes, there have been some reported.
Really, if you don't mind buying used, I'd really recommend the previous Gen Honda Fit. I think the layout, look and interior was actually superior to the new Gen.

Until Honda works out the bugs, right now, I really feel "Older" Honda Fit is better than brand new.

 

I'd narrow it down to three and give the kiddo some rudder input.

If he's going to be keeping the car for more than 5 years, I'd steer him towards a "C" type or maaaaaybe a Corolla.
The Mazda 3 would also be close to the top of my list, as well as the Fit - although I concur with TEM that the Usta-Fit is (was) a better car.

You've already done the VeeDubbaya thing, so I don't have to worry about you being tempted with the Jetta.

Another option would be a gently used dependable Civic/Corolla type with the promise of a new-new upon graduation from CICTDM.
Cheap insurance......and he's going to be picking the person who will be changing your diaper.

Good Luck!