Student living

Oct 13 2009 Matt Tumbridge

USED Car Expert's website has been receiving it's annual requests from students for advice on how to blow their student loans on a car that will be cool and can be sold on again if they need the cash.

We have also been receiving our usual run of messages from parents wanting a cheap, reliable car that their child will be able to use for many, many years.

So leaving aside the fact that parent and child have some work to do in aligning their goals, here are some ideas for under £3,000. They are not small cars, as they carry a premium, but they have small engines so insurance should be bearable.

Kia Rio

Spacious and seriously cheap. It is also quite comfy to drive and ideal for the family or students on a budget who don't care about badges. Feels cheep but it is cheerful.

Most economical: 1.3

Best student buy: 1.3

UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 10

Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2005 Kia Rio 1.3 with 38,713 average miles, is £,2507-£2,950.

Fiat Stilo

Roomy and cheap. Unpopularity meant discounts and that trend continues on used market. Lots of standard equipment and petrol power the best value.

Most economical: 1.9 JTD

Best student buy: 1.2 Active

UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 9

Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2004 Fiat Stilo16v Active 1.2 with 46,201 average miles, is £2,308-£2,716.

Suzuki Liana

Made famous on BBC Top Gear as the car celebrities drive round the track, it is actually a very good car. It's reasonably priced, reliable and has an acceptable amount of space and kit.

Most economical: 1.6

Best student buy: 1.6

UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: N/A

Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2003 Suzuki Liana GL 1.6 with 52,446 average miles, is £2,416-£2,843.