Best Cars for University Students in Saudi Arabia 2025

University students in Saudi Arabia need a car that balances reliability, affordability, and low running costs, while still offering comfort and modern technology. Daily commutes across busy cities or even between regions make fuel efficiency and easy maintenance key priorities. The Saudi market offers a wide range of new and used cars that fit various budgets and give students a smooth and stress free driving experience throughout their studies.

How to Choose the Right Car as a Student

Before making a final decision, students should carefully set their priorities to select a car that fits both their academic and personal needs:

• High reliability and easy access to maintenance services in their city.

• Low fuel consumption to reduce monthly expenses.

• Essential safety features such as stability control and multiple airbags.

• Final purchase cost after taxes and fees, with flexible installment options if needed.

• Strong resale value after graduation or when upgrading to a higher category.

Best Budget Friendly New Cars Under 70,000 SAR

Toyota YarisKSA Toyota YarisOman Toyota YarisQatar Toyota YarisUAE Toyota YarisBahrain Toyota YarisEgypt Toyota YarisKuwait Toyota Yaris Sedan

A practical and fuel efficient car, delivering around 22.1 km per liter according to official figures. It stands out for its wide maintenance network and trusted warranty coverage in Saudi Arabia. The Yaris offers a comfortable and easy driving experience for both city routes and intercity trips.

Kia PegasKSA Kia PegasKuwait Kia PegasQatar Kia PegasOman Kia PegasBahrain Kia PegasEgypt Kia PegasUAE Kia Pegas

One of the most affordable new cars for students on a budget.

• Approximate price: starts around 55,000 SAR.

• Fuel economy: up to 17.5 km per liter.

• Features a simple design, spacious interior, and sufficient equipment for daily university use.

Nissan SunnyUAE Nissan SunnyBahrain Nissan SunnyEgypt Nissan SunnyKSA Nissan SunnyKuwait Nissan SunnyOman Nissan SunnyQatar Nissan Sunny

A popular choice among beginner drivers thanks to its practicality and proven reliability.

• Approximate price: around 70,000 SAR for newer trims.

• Known for easy maintenance, long lasting performance, and excellent fuel efficiency on Saudi roads.

Best Comfortable Options with Premium Features under 100,000 SAR

HyundaiUAE HyundaiBahrain HyundaiEgypt HyundaiKSA HyundaiKuwait HyundaiOman HyundaiQatar Hyundai Elantra

The Elantra offers an ideal balance between cabin space and modern technology.

• Available engines: 1.6L and 2.0L

• Approximate price: between 84,000 and 92,000 SAR

• Fuel efficiency: around 16.8 km per liter for the economy trims

Its spacious interior and variety of trims make it a perfect choice for students who value comfort during intercity commutes.

ToyotaUAE ToyotaKSA ToyotaKuwait ToyotaQatar ToyotaOman ToyotaBahrain ToyotaEgypt Toyota Corolla

A long time favorite among university students.

• Approximate price: starting from around 85,000 SAR

• High quality interior materials and excellent resale value

• Stable and reliable, ideal for long distance travel

Most Affordable New Option for Tight Budgets

For those focused purely on minimizing costs, the KiaUAE KiaKSA KiaKuwait KiaQatar KiaOman KiaBahrain KiaEgypt Kia Pegas stands out as the best solution.

• Official starting price: around the mid 50,000 SAR range

• Easy to maintain and perfect as a first car for university students

• Available with flexible payment plans and very low running costs

Best Reliable Used Cars for Students

The Saudi market offers a wide range of affordable and dependable used cars with options for inspection and installment plans.

Used Toyota Corolla

• Available in multiple model years at competitive prices.

• Retains strong resale value over time.

• Inspection reports and financing options are accessible through local platforms such as Motory Saudi Arabia.

Used Toyota Yaris

• A great option for students seeking excellent fuel economy and a lower purchase price.

• Widely available across verified online marketplaces.

• Ideal for daily city commutes and university use.

Recommended Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Even in budget friendly models, essential safety systems are a must:

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

• Rear parking sensors and a backup camera for easy maneuvering.

• Touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity to reduce distractions.

• Cruise control for highway travel.

• Six airbags available in higher trims of Elantra or Corolla.

Ownership Costs That Matter for Students

Fuel remains the most significant recurring expense for students, especially with frequent commutes.

• Cars offering more than 16 km per liter, such as the Yaris, Pegas, and Elantra, help minimize monthly costs.

• Widely available spare parts and good resale value ease long term ownership expenses.