With plenty of employment opportunities, a hip culture, and beautiful surroundings, there’s no denying that Seattle is one great place to be as a college graduate. But, if you need a car to get to your new job near the Emerald City, you may find it difficult to get financing.
The good news is that many major car manufacturers understand this and have college grad programs designed for students entering the adult world. Even better, you don’t need to shell out tens of thousands of dollars to get a reliable car. Here are three reasonably priced, reliable used car models with above average safety ratings for your consideration:
Three Reliable and Affordable Used Cars
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Kia Soul (second generation) 2014 model (pictured) average price: $9,648
2015 model average price: $11,307
2016 model average price: $12,120
2017 model average price: $13,665
Average IIHS safety rating: Good
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Chevrolet Spark (third generation) 2013 model average price: $6,787
2014 model (pictured) average price: $7,373
2015 model average price: $8,249
Average IIHS safety rating: Good
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Nissan Versa Sedan (second generation) 2012 model average price: $5,296
2013 model (pictured) average price: $5,956
2014 model average price: $6,691
2015 model average price: $7,580
2016 model average price: $9,304
2017 model average price: $10,628
Average IIHS safety rating: Acceptable
Car Companies with College Grad Programs
If you’re looking into financing a car after graduation, it can be a simple process to go through. All you need in order to qualify for these grad programs – and the discounts they offer – is proof of graduation and proof of employment. Although additional requirements can vary by lender and car company, it’s best to be prepared by having these two documents ready. If you haven’t started your job yet, a letter of intent from your future employer will typically suffice.
So, which car companies have the best college grad programs? Many major manufacturers such as Ford, Hyundai, and Toyota offer these programs and special discounts. Luckily, two out of the three top cars for grads in Seattle we have listed are from a manufacturer with a college grad program:
Nissan College Grad Program
- Doesn’t require financing
- $500 to $1,000 discount available
- For recent college graduates
GM College Discount
- Doesn’t require financing
- Supplier pricing discount
- For current students and graduates
Although Kia Motors doesn’t currently have a college grad program, this doesn’t mean you should count them out. Kia is famous for producing affordable and reliable vehicles and, depending on the lender you work with, you may be able to get a discount or special incentive not offered with a grad program from another manufacturer. Make sure you ask questions and weigh all your options before making any decisions.
Get Behind the Wheel Today
If you’re in need of a vehicle that gets you to and from a new job in Seattle, look no further than Auto Credit Express, because we want to help. We work with a coast-to-coast network of special finance dealers that have the lending resources to help people with credit challenges. Don’t hesitate any longer, simply fill out our easy, no-obligation auto loan request form and we’ll get to work matching you with a local dealer!
