Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

May 2, 2025
Students throwing their graduation caps into the air

Image via Bill Snethkamp CDJR.

We know that affordability and fuel economy are top of mind for college students. If you’re a current or recent graduate of a Michigan college such as University of Detroit Mercy, Wayne State University, or University of Michigan and are in the market for a new vehicle, stay tuned. Today, we’ll be discussing new cars for college students that are affordable, efficient, and attractive.

1. 2025 Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that has mastered the dual art of rugged capability and city smarts. All models come standard in all-wheel drive and feature a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque.

This efficient SUV has a fuel economy rating of 32 MPG on the highway and 24 MPG in the city, making it a thoroughly competitive daily commuter. At the same time, students with a penchant for outdoor thrills will love the Compass’ automatic four-wheel drive system that provides excellent traction on uneven surfaces. A standard ground clearance of 8.1 inches provides sufficient height to traverse rough terrain and surmount minor obstacles.

2. 2025 Dodge Hornet

The Dodge Hornet is a well-rounded CUV that offers nimble handling, quick acceleration, and ample standard features in an affordable and handsome package. The R/T trim takes the title of quickest CUV in its segment, with a 0-60 mph time of only 5.6 seconds, courtesy of the 268-hp 2.0L Turbo engine with 383 lb-ft of torque.

The base GT trim comes standard with a substantial number of features normally reserved for more expensive trims, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard synthetic leather seating with red stitching both looks and feels good, though genuine leather is an available upgrade for those wanting greater bragging rights.

3. 2025 Dodge Durango

The Durango is a three-row SUV that offers a brilliant combination of practicality and performance. The standard 3.6L V6 engine offers 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and delivers strong fuel efficiency to the tune of 26 MPG on the highway. If you’ve got a need for speed, you can opt for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, which produces 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque.

The Durango seats seven passengers in its standard configuration, however, the second row bench seat can be swapped for captain’s chairs if desired, lowering capacity to six. 85.1 cubic feet of storage space is available with the second and third rows folded down, making is easy to move out of your dorm room by yourself.

These three vehicles are just a small sample of our many vehicles that are ideal for Michigan college students and recent graduates. Stop by Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Highland Park, MI, or visit our website, to browse our large selection of affordable vehicles.