College student? First job? 5 top picks for the first-time car buyer in Birmingham. 

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Ready to purchase your first car? It can be a tough decision! But, never fret. Bham Now has done the work for you. Here are five cars from Driver’s Way in Pelham and off Highway 280 in front of Lee Branch shopping center, that are rated high for safety, reliability and gas mileage, plus aren’t too hard on the pocketbook. Read on to get the deets.

1. Toyota Camry

I am an avid fan of the Toyota Camry—no matter what year or model. They provide just the right amount of space and comfort, and are totally easy on the eyes. Plus, with the Toyota nameplate, you basically ensure your car will continue to run for years to come. 

For a smooth and sporty four-door sedan, consider the 2016 Toyota Camry SE.

EPA Mileage: 28 MPG city/highway combined
IIHS Crash Safety: Good
Features: above-average cargo space, touchscreen user interface, Bluetooth pairing, voice recognition

2. Honda CR-V

Whether you’re traveling to class at UAB or to your first job in downtown Birmingham, you’ll need a vehicle that’s reliable. Making it to appointments on time really is important!

Which vehicle can you depend on to get them from point A to point B? The 2017 Honda CR-V. 

This SUV is known for its reliability and storage.  You can pack your dorm room goods in the back and still have room for a friend or two.

It also features plenty of safety technology to protect you on those busy Birmingham roads. 

EPA Mileage: 28 MPG city/highway combined
IIHS Crash Safety: Good
Features: Collision Mitigation Braking System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Mitigation Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, Blindspot Information System (BSI) Blind Spot Sensor

3. Kia Optima

After graduating from college, you’ll want to spread your wings and show off your personality in the real world. One way to show off your ‘coolness’  is with a fun ride like the 2016 Kia Optima LX. 

This car provides a smooth, quiet ride, luxury features and great fuel efficiency. You’ll love its spacious backseat and trunk, too, which will make toting groceries or taking a mini vacation simple. 

EPA Mileage: 28 MPG city/highway combined
IIHS Crash Safety: Good
Features: keyless entry, satellite radio compatibility, 6-way power driver seat, rear camera display, UVO infotainment screen includes Speed Alert and Driving Score with music, messaging, navigation and voice calls available via steering wheel or voice command

4. Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

That first car you buy all on your own should be one you’re proud of. If you’re interested in an SUV, consider the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.

A comfortable, upscale interior and powerful engine are two pros you’ll like about this ride. Another is the Blue Link Telematics System that can be accessed via a smartphone to:

• Remotely start the vehicle.
• Call for assistance in the event of a crash or other emergency.
• Locate an address or gas station.

EPA Mileage: 23 MPG city/highway combined
IIHS Crash Safety: Good
Features: remote keyless entry, trip computer, tracker system, perimeter alarm, rearview camera, Bluelink Emergency SOS

5. Hyundai Sonata Sport

Those of us in Birmingham love to zip around town.  Fortunately, our Birmingham roads aren’t so packed that we can’t take advantage of a little power. For added pep consider the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Sport. 

Not only does it have great pickup, but it also modern, durable and full of technology.

EPA Mileage: 28 MPG city/highway combined
IIHS Crash Safety: Good
Features: push-button start, heated front seats, perimeter alarm, back-up camera, tire specific low tire pressure warning, trip computer

Find Your Ride – FAST!

Buying your very first car? To find your perfect ride, check out Driver’s Way in Pelham and on Highway 280. They’re nice, easy to work with and will get you a great deal! 

Driver’s Way even offers a Fast Lane Purchase tool to make buying quick and simple. Check it out! 

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