quote:

Originally posted by doublesharp:
Mazda CX-5 is actually made in Japan and the quality shows. Also a real transmission and the base engine is an economical 2.5l 4cyl that is shared across several models and the design is college kid friendly. CX-5 would be on my list for sure.

I'll look into that. A normal transmission is appealing on the thought that I might turn it over to them permanently on graduation and thus it could be a long term ownership.

quote:

Originally posted by HRK:
Kia and Hyundai have long warranties, better than the others, and good quality, always rank high on JD powers for reliability.

Several models from small compacts to full size suv's even a pretty cool mini pickup in the SantaFe

https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/venue

If he really doesn't need a car except for SHTF reasons, then you could always rent a car for him to use to come home say on a weekend, holiday, that eliminates parking, insurance, maintaince, theft, etc.

OP stated no Korean manufacturers early in the thread

quote:

Originally posted by snwghst:

quote:

Originally posted by HRK:
Kia and Hyundai have long warranties, better than the others, and good quality, always rank high on JD powers for reliability.

Several models from small compacts to full size suv's even a pretty cool mini pickup in the SantaFe

https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/venue

If he really doesn't need a car except for SHTF reasons, then you could always rent a car for him to use to come home say on a weekend, holiday, that eliminates parking, insurance, maintenance, theft, etc.

OP stated no Korean manufacturers early in the thread

Yeah, my feelings against them are all of the normal prejudices against the brands from early poor designs and quality. But also Savage Geese (YouTube channel) mentions of poor dealership practices, and their under-car reviews revealing cheap materials which just won't hold up well in the rust belt.

And my bias toward Toyota and such, as I recall the local stories of stainless steel (our local steel factory) being rejected by Toyota (even though it was just destined for exhaust) and yet it could then be rerouted to other brands (not Korean of course. Sadly, American). That and my dad's horrendous experiences in the 70's and 80's and even 90's with American brands. I know they've changed, but I haven't forgiven. I've owned one American brand (whether that means anything in this global economy anymore anyways). It was a 2003 and had a serious problem. Anecdotal statistically, but important to me.

But I do thank you for the note on warranty. It is an important point that should be kept in mind for others reading the thread. Good point.

Corolla is a great choice. RAV4 is super popular model if AWD is needed. Our son went to Texas A&M. He had an accident and needed a car. We shipped him our Camery. After he graduated, he sold it with well over 300,000 miles on it.
Corolla and RAV4s have a tinny sound, but are so dependable! A camery gives you a step up in comfort and a little more room. Even a 5-8 year old Camery that’s been taken care of.

If willing to look used and maybe a bit older, these are less popular, but still good. (Other people's experiences may differ from mine.)
2014-2021 Mazda6
2015+ Nissan Altima
2007+ Honda Element (lots of space for college dorm hauling).

My cars: 2020 Mazda6 (mine, 17K miles), 2014 Altima (given to oldest, 99K miles), 2005 Element (currently with youngest, 153K miles). If you maintain the Altima CVT, it will last. I bought all except Element as new from dealer. 2007+ elements get 5AT not the 4AT, much less RPM at 65+mph.

Teach them not to let the battery sit for weeks/months unattended in school lot. Maintain the battery via solar charger, plug-in charger, drive for an hour, or disconnect battery. Give them a battery jump-pack too (Audew,Noco,etc.),

quote:

Originally posted by TheBull:
Teach them not to let the battery sit for weeks/months unattended in school lot. Maintain the battery via solar charger, plug-in charger, drive for an hour, or disconnect battery. Give them a battery jump-pack too (Audew,Noco,etc.),

Excellent insight! Maybe a battery lifter switch under the hood. Good for theft as well!