High school is done and now it’s time to send your kids off to college. Up until now, you have been able to monitor their driving including how they drive, where they go and who is with them. College brings with it more responsibility and less parental control. With that in mind, what’s the best vehicle to keep them safe, is reliable and something you can feel confident is dependable? Drive with us as we provide some of the best Ford options.
Some Tips on What to Look For
Safety: The safety features in your college-bound student vehicle are most likely at the top of the list. You will want to check the specific safety features and crash test ratings. Some of the safety features to consider are a rear-view camera, lane-keeping system and blind spot monitoring. Additional considerations include good visibility and air bags.
Affordable: While the price of the vehicle is important, affordability goes beyond the initial price of the vehicle. Does it get good gas mileage? What about maintenance costs? Don’t forget the cost of auto insurance.
Cargo room: As your student packs up for college, do they have the room needed to move their belongings? What about room for the loads of dirty clothes they are sure to bring home??
Safety on Ford Models
As far as safety is concerned, Ford models are loaded with safety features with the Ford Co-Pilot360 system. Some of the features include:
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: Advanced sensors scan the road ahead, alerting you to any potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians. If an impact is imminent and you don’t take corrective action, the brakes apply automatically if they’re needed.
Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking: This feature helps detect and alert you to vehicles in your blind spots. Cross-Traffic Alert helps detect traffic behind you, such as when you slowly back out of a parking spot or driveway.
Rear View Camera: Mirrors can’t show the whole story. See exactly what’s behind you as you shift into reverse, right on your display screen.
Lane Keeping System: Three systems, working together to protect you. Lane-Keeping Aid directs you back to the center of the lane when you stray. Lane-Keeping Alert warns you through steering-wheel vibrations. And Driver Alert signals if you are drifting too much.
Ford Escape
We love lots about the Ford Escape. It is a popular choice for many reasons. The combination of affordability and fuel efficiency makes it an attractive option for college-bound students. Here are some features that show why the Escape is one of the best SUVs for fuel economy:
EcoBoost engines: The Ford Escape offers EcoBoost engine options, designed to provide a balance between power and fuel efficiency.
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options: Ford offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants of the Escape. These models combine a gasoline engine with electric power to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Start-stop technology: The Escape may be equipped with start-stop technology. The tech shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop, like at a stop sign, then it restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal. This feature helps conserve fuel, especially during city driving.
Depending on your model and trim choice, you can get as high as 34 MPG hwy and 27 MPG city. With the hybrid models you can get as high as 36 MPG hwy and 42 MPG city.
Another aspect of the Escape that we love is that while it is a compact SUV, it has a spacious interior with lots of cargo room. With the rear seats folded down, it has an impressive 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space, plenty of room for luggage and sports equipment.
The Ford Escape’s combination of affordability, fuel economy, cargo space and safety features make it a well-rounded option for your student who may need to balance a budget with practicality and comfort.
Ford Bronco Sport
First off, the Ford Bronco Sport has the rugged good looks to match its overall awesomeness. It’s got the G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any type of Terrain) mode system. The feature will help with driving in the snow, whether it’s coming home to you or for a sledding adventure in the mountains. Note these key features that make the Bronco Sport a great choice for your student away from home:
G.O.A.T. modes: The system allows the driver to select from different driving modes tailored to specific terrains like snow and mud. You will feel better knowing that your student’s vehicle has the capability to provide enhanced traction and control in challenging conditions, including snowy roads.
Gas Mileage: As with the Escape, the Bronco Sport is available with EcoBoost and start-stop technology. While the fuel savings might not be as much as the Ford Escape, the Bronco Sport still has impressive savings at the pump. The EPA estimates 28 MPG Hwy and 25 MPG city.
Cargo room: The SUV offers loads of room for clothes, bedding and college gear needed while away from home. Put the back seats down and get up to 65.2 cubic feet of space.
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick is Ford’s small size compact pickup truck. Its fuel economy and size are what puts the truck on our list.
Gas mileage: You might be surprised to know the fuel efficiency of the Maverick. Available options include EcoBoost, hybrid and start-stop technology. The EPA estimates 33 MPG hwy and 42 MPG city for the hybrid variant. The nonhybrid models are rated for 30 MPG hwy and 23 MPG city with front-wheel drive and 29 MPG hwy and 22 MPG city for all-wheel drive.
Cargo bed: Having enough room to carry essentials for college life is not a problem in the Maverick. The volume in the cargo bed is 33.3 cubic feet. Large boxes and small furniture items are not an issue in this truck.
The Ford Maverick made the list of 10 Best Cars for Recent College Graduates by AutoTrader. Even though the list is for after graduation, you are investing in a vehicle that gets your student on the journey for real life.
Wendle Ford Has the Best Vehicles for Your Student
Heading off to college is a big step, a significant milestone. Let us help ease your mind by finding the vehicle that can handle every situation. Filled with safety features, affordable and with lots of room, we have options to meet every student’s needs. Ford has a strong reputation for producing reliable vehicles, giving parents peace of mind knowing their student’s car is dependable and built to last.
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