Kelley Blue Book 10 best back to school cars for 2014

It’s back to school time, and kids are going off to college. Kelley Blue Book has put together a list of the 10 best back to school cars for 2014. All 10 start below $20,000.

#10

2014 Subaru Impreza

KBB 8.0/10, 27/36 MPG

In areas of the country where the winter semesters get white, students would be wise to include the Subaru Impreza on their car-shopping shortlists. The most affordable all-wheel-drive car you can buy, Subaru's compact car mixes all-weather prowess with the proven reliability that has helped the brand earn renowned levels of loyalty in all corners of the country.

#9

2015 Volkswagen Golf

KBB 9.2/10, 26/37 MPG

The only European car on this list, the new-for-2015, seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf combines genuinely Teutonic driving dynamics and interior refinement with the kind of hatchback versatility that make easy work of laundry day excursions, supply runs and moving days.

#8

2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

KBB 8.6/10 24/31 MPG

One of the most affordable crossovers you can buy is also among the most stylish. The Outlander Sport is the only SUV to make this year's list, and balances a fun demeanor with the peace of mind of a 10-year/100,0000-mile powertrain warranty.

#7

2014 Chevrolet Sonic

KBB 8.5/10 26/35 MPG

The well-rounded Sonic is one of the most fun-to-drive and most comfortable subcompact cars out there. Available in sedan and hatchback flavors, the Sonic was also one of the first cars to offer next-level iPhone integration via Siri Eyes Free. As a bonus, it's also the most affordable car on this list.

#6

2014 Honda Civic

KBB 8.6/10 30/39 MPG

Whatever your student's personality, there's a Civic that suits it. From sporty to eco-friendly, fuel-sipping to performance-driven, the perennially popular Civic gives students plenty of top-notch options, renowned reliability, easy-to-use tech and a spacious, comfortable interior.

#5

2014 Toyota Prius C

9.3/10 53/46 MPG

The easy-to-park and amazingly fuel-efficient Prius c is an ideal choice for students living far off campus. Likeable looks, hatchback versatility and Toyota reliability make its combined fuel economy rating of 50 mpg even more attractive.

#4

2014 Mazda3

KBB 9.3/10 30/41 MPG

The stylish and sporty Mazda3 isn't just a smart choice for students, it's also one of this year's 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000. Available in sedan and hatchback versions, the totally redesigned 2014 Mazda 3 is also more efficient, more tech-savvy and more comfortable than ever.

#3

2014 Nissan Versa Note

KBB 7.7/10 27/36 MPG

Nissan's value-packed subcompact hatchback contains cool features that make life easier for young drivers. The Around View Monitor is a huge help when parking, and anyone from the study group that sits in the back seat can appreciate the amazing amount of rear legroom.

#2

2014 Kia Soul

KBB 9.6/10 24/30 MPG

The redesigned-for-2014 Soul is loaded with personality, yet at its core is wonderfully practical. The fuel-efficient hatchback seats five and has the cargo volume to ace a trip to IKEA for dorm room furniture.

#1

2015 Honda Fit

KBB 9.0/10 33/41 MPG

After taking the 2014 model year off, the small Fit returns to the head of the class, bringing with it the most flexible interior you'll find in a subcompact car. And even though it's Honda's most affordable car, the totally redesigned Honda Fit offers the same brand of sporty fun and refinement for which the brand is known.

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