Hi everyone, I’m a senior in college and I drive 20 miles to school and 20 miles back home every day. I live in Houston, where everything is pretty far apart, so I expect this to be my normal commute for a while.
I’m thinking about buying a car, and I need something that’s fuel-efficient (preferably a 4-cylinder) and good for long-distance travel. Right now, I have a 2016 Dodge Caravan that’s been with me since freshman year, but it’s time to let it go.
I don’t mind getting another van, especially since I’d like it to be a good family car too—something that can comfortably fit five people.
I don’t know much about cars, and neither do my friends, so I’d really appreciate any advice or suggestions. Thanks so much for your help!
I’m a big fan of Toyota, so I’d say go for a Camry or Corolla. If you’re looking for something a little different but still affordable, check out Scions made after 2012. Older ones had some issues with burning oil, but newer ones are solid—they’re basically Toyotas with a different logo.
Piper said: @Lei
I like Toyotas too! If I buy new or slightly used, do you think these models have enough space for a family of five?
They can technically fit five, but I’m not sure about comfort, especially on longer trips. If you’re often driving with a full car, I’d suggest looking at a Sienna, RAV4, or even a 4Runner. If you’re open to trucks, maybe a Tacoma or Tundra.
Any Toyota would work. I’d recommend a Camry LE. It’s got great mileage even if it’s not a hybrid, though the hybrid version is worth it if you can spend a little more.
Montana said:
Any Toyota would work. I’d recommend a Camry LE. It’s got great mileage even if it’s not a hybrid, though the hybrid version is worth it if you can spend a little more.
I’ve got an XSE 4-cylinder and spend about $25 a week on gas. My job is only 8 minutes away, though. Short trips seem to use more gas.
Camry or RAV4 are great options. I have a RAV4 hybrid, and it’s been fantastic—great fuel economy and super practical. I even managed to fit a 7.5-foot Christmas tree in it, and it handled a 1,600-mile round trip with no issues.
Definitely! It’s the best version in my opinion. Starting in 2026, hybrids will become standard in many models, and Toyota’s hybrid system is very reliable.
I have a RAV4 hybrid too. They’re amazing for gas mileage, especially in warm weather. On the highway, I get about 40 mpg year-round. In the city, it’s around 50 mpg in summer and 35 mpg in winter. Since you’re in Texas, you probably won’t have to worry much about winter mileage drops.
I love my Toyota RAV4! I get 27 mpg even though I’m always driving between the city and mountains. It’s super comfortable for long trips, and I save so much compared to my friends with trucks and bigger SUVs.
I drive a 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter engine. I do a 102-mile round trip daily and get about 23 mpg. Plus, 4-wheel drive is a must up here in the Midwest.
LisaMoore said:
I drive a 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter engine. I do a 102-mile round trip daily and get about 23 mpg. Plus, 4-wheel drive is a must up here in the Midwest.
23 mpg for a truck? That’s not bad. My TC barely gets that! Then again, it probably needs a good cleaning.
LisaMoore said:
I drive a 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter engine. I do a 102-mile round trip daily and get about 23 mpg. Plus, 4-wheel drive is a must up here in the Midwest.
A pickup truck for commuting? For a college student? Did anyone actually read the question here?
LisaMoore said: @Soren
Relax, I’m just saying if she can’t find anything else, my Tacoma has good mileage and is reliable.
I get that you like trucks, but calling 23 mpg ‘good mileage’ is a stretch. While Tacomas are reliable, they’re not ideal for commuting. Most people buy them more for style or lifestyle reasons than practicality.
LisaMoore said:
I drive a 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter engine. I do a 102-mile round trip daily and get about 23 mpg. Plus, 4-wheel drive is a must up here in the Midwest.
You must have a very light foot. My single-cab 4x4 gets about 18 mpg.
LisaMoore said:
I drive a 2019 Tacoma SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter engine. I do a 102-mile round trip daily and get about 23 mpg. Plus, 4-wheel drive is a must up here in the Midwest.
