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When we were in college, both of Sam's brothers bought Hyundais. And we laughed at them. Sure they were poor. So were we, but who would buy a junk car like that?
Apparently, we would. In 2002, we bought our first Hyundai—a Santa Fe—and it's still going strong with over 100,000 miles on it. We learned our lesson. Car elitism isn't all it's cracked up to be. And some of the very best buys in cars are from humble, inexpensive brands. True, you they won't make you a chick magnet. Unless, of course, your chick is drawn to a shrewd buyer who can squeeze blood from a turnip.
With today's economic climate, it's more important than ever to get the biggest bang for your buck. Transportation is a major expense with car payments, insurance, licensing, maintenance, and, of course, gas at soaring prices. (Not to mention that with politicians using environmentalism to move up the power food chain, prices threaten to go even higher.)
If it's time to replace the old clunker and you don't have money to burn, look for a car with a competitive price, a solid warranty, and good gas mileage.
We have never owned a Kia, but with the very competitive prices of the Kia Rio, it's one my college kids might be looking into. Equally important is the fact that the Rio has a seven year warranty. This can be incredibly important when you're on a tight budget (as all college students are), because you simply cannot afford to be hit with a large repair bill. If you car is under warranty, any problem is nothing more than an inconvenience, and soon you are on the road again.
Before buying any car, ask your friends and acquaintances for references both for their favorite cars and for a dealer they trust to deal honestly with you. Check Consumer Reports and other unpaid review services. Do your due diligence and you will be rewarded with a solid car that will take you through many miles on your journey. Where ever it is you are heading.
Alison Moore Smith is a 61-year-old entrepreneur who graduated from BYU in 1987. She has been (very happily) married to Samuel M. Smith for 40 years. They are parents of six incredible children and grandparents to two astounding grandsons. She is the author of The 7 Success Habits of Homeschoolers.