Before consumers buy new cars, they often consider the critic lists outlining the best vehicles in a particular segment first. There are rosters of vehicles awarded the best in value, best for towing, and best for families. But if you’re a college student or have a car-buying college-goer in your family, there’s one list that might be of particular interest. “The Best Cars for College Students in 2020” list outlines those cars that might appeal to those heading off on their own. And the 2020 Kia Forte tops this collection of college-friendly vehicles. It’s the one ride that can help you get to class on time.

What college students need in a vehicle

Young adults heading off to college have general criteria they look for in a car. Usually, the price point needs to fit a more economical budget. Fuel efficiency can also be a priority because commuting college-goers don’t want to spend a fortune in gas to drive home for visits. College students also tend to look for cargo capacity — to pile in friends, dorm room necessities, and dirty laundry for the weekend trip home. It’s these common criteria that U.S. News looked for when reviewing and compiling its list of the best cars for college students.

The 2020 Kia Forte makes the best-of list for college students

One car that seems to marry all the most important characteristics of a college student-suited car is the 2020 Kia Forte. Topping U.S. News’ list of the best cars for college students, this budget-friendly and fuel-efficient sedan is a winner. The 2020 Kia Forte starts at $17,890, making it an incredibly affordable choice for those with limited funds. It also earns high safety ratings and achieves great fuel economy.

The 2020 Kia Forte delivers incredible value

Typically, you might assume you’ll have to forgo amenities when you think of an economy car. But the 2020 Kia Forte comes with a ton of great driver aids, safety features, and standard equipment. The five-passenger cabin is roomy and offers some of the best cargo capacity in this class. Enjoy some of the best driver assistance technology, such as collision warning, driver attention monitoring, and auto emergency braking. 

The 2020 Kia Forte is no slouch under the hood either. Of course, to achieve its impressive fuel economy, it offers only a 4-cylinder engine. But even the base model harnesses 147 horses. And the GT trim brings in the 201-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder for even more pep and power. Another game-changer and perk for college students is the Forte’s standard six-speed manual transmission. If a stick shift isn’t your jam, though, you can opt for the continuously variable auto transmission instead. Either way, you can expect the 2020 Kia Forte to average between 28 and 35 mpg, according to FuelEconomy.gov.

What’s new for 2021?

The 2020 Kia Forte is a top-notch choice for college students. But it doesn’t mean the 2021 model isn’t worth considering either. Not much is new for the next-gen, but there are a few equipment changes throughout the lineup. And the GT trims got a summer performance tire upgrade. Edmunds says there are still tons of features for the price, impressive fuel-efficiency estimates, and an easy-to-navigate tech interface. 

So, if you are a college student yourself or know one who’s in the market for a new dorm-bound car, the 2020 Kia Forte is worth a look. With affordable pricing, excellent gas mileage, and loads of safety features and extras, it’s the economy car that doesn’t feel like a bare-bones vehicle. And you might not find a better buy when it comes to all-around value.