After years of late nights of studying and calls to the local pizza shop, a new set of college graduates is ready to enter the “real world.” Now, they just need the best car to get them from A to Z.  Against the backdrop of rising car prices and looming student loan debt, the editors at Autotrader have identified the 10 Best Cars for Recent College Graduates in 2019 – options that are affordable as well as appealing.

“Entering the next phase of their lives, many college graduates are looking for a vehicle that is reliable, safe and fun to drive,” said Tara Trompeter, managing editor of Autotrader in a news release. “Whether commuting to work or picking up a date, finding the perfect vehicle at the right price can be a challenge for these young adults. All of the vehicles selected provide an entry-level car that will have recent graduates riding in style as they begin their new journey.”

Here are the 10 best cars for recent college graduates in 2019:

2012-2017 Jeep Wrangler
Making its way on the market well before these graduates were in middle school, the Jeep Wrangler JK generation is a great option for young adults who want to do some off-roading and appreciate the classic utilitarian appearance. The vehicle received an update in 2012 to feature a more powerful V6 engine, automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive.

2014-2019 Kia Soul
While the Kia Soul is all-new for 2020 and could be expensive for recent grads, however, the outgoing second-generation model is more affordable, spacious and reliable for safety and style.

2015-2019 Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang began its current generation in 2015 with major improvements on the interior design and quality. Available as a coupe or convertible with automatic or manual transmission, the Ford Mustang is a fun choice for a college graduate to enjoy a quick, sporty car before family life takes over.

2015-2019 GMC Canyon
The GMC Canyon is a good option for college graduates who like the idea of a truck, but don’t want something too big and sucks up gasoline.

2015-2019 Honda Fit
Don’t be tricked by the Fit’s subcompact size; this vehicle has a large reconfigurable interior with a back seat and is roomier than many other cars that are a size larger.

2016-2019 Chevrolet Volt
With an impressive all-electric range of 53 miles and a modern interior, the Chevy Volt is a great plug-in hybrid that is excellent for environmentally conscious drivers or those looking to save on fuel costs.

2016-2019 Hyundai Tucson 
Featuring a roomy, quiet interior and high reliability ratings, the Hyundai Tucson is a good value for a compact SUV.

2016-2019 Toyota Prius
While the Toyota Prius might not be the coolest looking vehicle to impress someone, it is considered one of the most practical a recent grad may purchase. Equipped with safety features, nice-sized cargo area and affordability, the Toyota Prius is a decent option.

2017-2019 Mazda CX-5
As a class leader, the Mazda CX-5 will make drivers feel like they’re in a more expensive vehicle thanks to its smooth ride, sharp handling, and comfortable seats.

2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek
Offering a light off-roader the Subaru Crosstrek has symmetrical all-wheel drive, spacious back seats and gets good gas mileage. This car is great if you want to go camping with a friends and not worry about how much you’ll have to shell out for gas before getting to your destination.

Whatever ride you choose from the above list or otherwise you’ll surely be doing it in style!

Source Autotrader