Your Guide to Buying a New Car as a New Grad

We have rounded up a list of six great cars that should be perfect for a new graduate or new professional. These models are all available at our Subaru, Volkswagen, and Audi dealerships in Columbus. Browse our inventory of these models and find your perfect fit today!

Reasons a New Grad Needs a New Ride

Every new graduate needs to make sure they have a solid vehicle to drive them forward in their next adventures. Oftentimes this is a major right of passage for college grads as it might be their first big purchase as an adult. It might be the first vehicle they have that truly reflects their personal style and desires rather than their parent’s ideas of affordability, practicality, and safety. As new grads enter the workforce, they will want a trusted car, truck, or SUV that can handle the demands of their job, schedule, and hobbies.

Buying vs Leasing

Something new grads might want to consider is whether they want to buy or lease the vehicle. As you graduate from college it can be difficult to know where you will end up in a few years and what will happen in the economy. You might end up backpacking in Europe or living in a bustling city with little need for a car. Leasing could be ideal if you plan on staying put in your first job or internship for a few years. You can enjoy the benefits of driving a stylish new vehicle without the long term commitment or hefty down payment.

Leasing does require that you stay within a set mileage limit and they could be difficult to get out of. If a new grad has saved up money or receives generous cash gifts for their graduation, they might want to opt for buying a new or used car.

Popular Options for New Grads at Our Columbus Dealership

Here we will outline some popular vehicles for new grads in our inventory due to affordability, style, reliability, and more features young professionals want.

– Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza is a top recommendation for a graduate. This is due in part to the impressive reliability the Subaru brand is known for. It also offers excellent safety ratings, ample cargo space, and the option to go for the sedan or hatchback. Impreza’s are ideal for commuters as they see up to 38 mpg on the highway. New models even start out at a modest price, making them a perfect choice for those who are just starting out and don’t yet have the funds for a more expensive luxury sedan. Highlights of the Impreza include:

• Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive
• Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert
• LED steering responsive headlights and high beam assist
• Roof racking
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Harmon Kardon premium audio

2) Subaru Crosstrek

The slightly more rugged Subaru Crosstrek also makes our list of top options for new grads. The Crosstrek lands somewhere between a hatchback and crossover and it offers affordability, good fuel economy, ample cargo space, and capability for off-road adventures. Bells and whistles can be added depending on budget such as a navigation screen and leather-trimmed upholstery. Features that put the Crosstrek high on our list include:

• Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive
• 7 inches of ground clearance
• Apple CarPlay™ & Android™ Auto Integration
• Large cargo area with 60/40-split fold-down rear seats
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Rear-vision camera & reverse automatic braking

3) Volkswagen Golf GTI

The new Golf GTI is a terrific option from Volkswagen. It comes in at a higher price range than some other options, but could be a good option for someone ready to test out their shiny new degree in a sophisticated professional world. This is a sporty car that is actually fun to drive, compact for city parking, and fits into an active lifestyle with a roomy hatchback. Some features on the Golf GTI fit for a new grad include:

• Driving mode selection
• 228-horsepower turbocharged engine
• Available 8-inch glass touchscreen display
• Smartphone compatibility
• Ambient lighting
• Sport bumpers
• LED headlights & taillights
• Available pedestrian monitoring
• Available keyless access with push-button start
• Available blind spot monitor

4) Volkswagen e-Golf

The e-Golf from Volkswagen is for new graduates that are more environmentally minded. This stylish, eco-friendly electric option was engineered to take on the city. Some features we think new grads or young professionals will enjoy with this include:

• 119 EPA estimated combined mpg
• DC Fast Charger
• Available 12″ digital cockpit
• App-Connect
• Available pro touchscreen navigation
• Blind spot monitor
• Keyless access with push-button start
• Ample cargo space
• Electrically heated windshield

5) Volkswagen Jetta

The new Volkswagen Jetta is a surprisingly affordable option that offers plenty of great features as well as proven reliability. This sporty, sleek sedan is commuter-friendly with up to 40 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in city. The Jetta offers several luxury features that will make an impression on coworkers including:

• Panoramic sunroof
• BeatsAudio™
• LED headlights and taillights
• 10-color customizable ambient lighting
• Available ventilated leather seating
• Available heated front seats
• Available 8-inch touchscreen navigation
• Driver personalization
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Keeping System
• Turbocharged engine

6) Audi A3

The Audi A3 amps up the luxury for a new grad and brings the perfect combination of features, performance, and sophistication. Young drivers will love the standard suite features including a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a smartphone interface. The A3 offers a relatively low starting price compared to other luxury options. Highlights include:

• Available fully digital 12.3-inch information display
• Available full LED headlights
• Heated front seats
• Available 4G LTE-powered Wi-Fi hotspot
• Automated emergency braking & forward-collision warning

Choose Used or Certified Pre-Owned to Save More

If you are still looking for something more affordable for your new grad, consider opting for a used or Certified Pre-Owned Subaru, Volkswagen, Audi, or Porsche. We offer incredible deals with additional assurance and peace of mind thanks to an extended warranty and thorough inspections, so browse our inventory of CPO cars today!

Visit our dealership in Columbus to shop for the perfect vehicle for a new grad. Schedule a test drive and set up a time to talk to our financing experts about the best options for your needs.