Performance Auto Group’s Top Picks for Back-to-School Driving
Performance Auto Group’s Top Picks for Back-to-School Driving
Posted on August 25, 2025
As backpacks get packed and classrooms fill up again, choosing the right vehicle for the upcoming school year is top of mind for many students and parents. Whether you're commuting to university, carpooling kids to elementary school, or just looking for a dependable ride, here are the top car picks for back to school in 2025 based on budget, safety, and practicality.
2025 Honda Civic
This vehicle is best for college students and young professionals. This vehicle stands out because it is fuel-efficient, sleek, and easy to drive. The key features on this model are Honda Sensing suite (lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control), excellent fuel as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A bonus with these vehicles is they typically are low in maintenance costs.
2025 Toyota Corolla Hatchback
This vehicle would be best for students who want space, but do not need a large SUV. This vehicle stands out because is it compact yet roomy with a sporty edge. The key features in this vehicle are the Toyota Safety Sense, wireless Smartphone connection, and fold-flat rear seats for those weekend trips. This vehicle is always has an excellent fuel economy with a combined city driving and highway range of approximately 700 km.
2025 Hyundai Kona
This vehicle is best for those who have long commutes or deal with harsher winters. This vehicle is a subcompact SUV with and AWD option and a fresh vibrant design. The key features in this vehicle are the digital cluster, technology heavy, and are very fuel efficient. This vehicle is great for camping, and road trips.
2025 Mazda CX-30
This vehicle would be best for students who want a stylish ride with a premium interior feel, without paying luxury prices. It stands out because it delivers upscale comfort and smart design in a compact footprint. The key features in this vehicle are standard all-wheel drive, responsive handling for dynamic city or highway drives, and intuitive interior tech for everyday convenience. This vehicle also offers top-tier safety with an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and a crisp infotainment experience to match its sophisticated design.
2025 Kia K4
This vehicle would be best for students who need a reliable and affordable daily driver, especially first-time buyers on a budget. It stands out because it blends cost-efficiency with modern features rarely seen at its price point. The key features in this vehicle are an 12.3-inch infotainment screen, rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking for added peace of mind. This vehicle also offers excellent fuel economy, making it a smart, economical choice for campus commutes and weekend getaways.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek
This vehicle would be best for students who enjoy the outdoors or need dependable performance in snowy weather. It stands out because of its rugged capability, combining high ground clearance with standard all-wheel drive for year-round confidence. The key features in this vehicle are the Subaru EyeSight driver assist system, Starlink multimedia for connectivity, and generous cargo space for gear or groceries. This vehicle is also among the safest in its class, making it a solid choice for adventurous and safety-conscious drivers alike.
Vehicle purchasing tips:
When shopping for a car for the back-to-school season, it’s important to start by setting a clear budget, be sure to factor in not just the purchase price, but also taxes, insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. Consider certified pre-owned vehicles, which often offer lower prices while still providing the peace of mind that comes with a factory-backed warranty. Prioritize safety by looking for high crash test ratings and essential features like lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Lastly, think long-term by choosing a vehicle that is practical for your current needs but will continue to suit your lifestyle in the years to come.
Be sure to visit a Performance Auto Group location near you. We have many convenient locations across Brampton, Mississauga, Orangeville, Niagara, Brantford, and Muskoka to help you find the perfect back-to-school vehicle.
Author: Anita Marinho