Yahoo Autos I Finally Have A 'Real Job' And Need A Fun, Yet Practical Car For The Commute! What Should I Buy?
Scott lives in Baltimore and after working various gigs including a few stints on cruise ships he has what he calls a “real job” as a software engineer. However, he hasn’t driven a car in a long time and wants something fun, but not too challenging. With a $25,000 budget, what car should he buy?
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Here is the scenario.
Quick Facts:
I finally landed a “real job” as a software engineer after years of not driving (I lived in Brooklyn for 3 years and on cruise ships for 6 year; in both places I was a theater tech). That’s not to say I’m a bad driver, but I am a little rusty and would like something that’s fun to drive but not too challenging. The only other car I’ve ever had was a 1994 Acura Legend in high school and college. I’ll need to commute and run errands and move into an apartment, so flexibility is key.
Not to feel like I’m totally selling out? Something that is economical to own, reasonable amounts of cargo space, but also something that can accelerate. And something that looks a tiny bit aggressive, where after a long day of meetings and coding, I would see it in the parking lot and go, yeah, that’s my car.
I like Acuras and Hondas, so something similar to a Civic might work
While I don’t want something too big, I am 6 ft tall so I need ample legroom, and I have to have CarPlay. OTher than that I’m not super picky. My budget is about $25,000
Budget: $25,000
Location: Baltimore, MD
Daily Driver: Yes
Wants: Fun to drive, “aggressive looking,” good pickup
Doesn’t want: Something too big
Expert 1: Tom McParland - Four Rings Fancy
Congratulations on the new gig, Scott. While you probably won’t find the same selection of pizza in Baltimore as compared to Brooklyn, Charm City does have its upsides. If you are looking for a ride to zoom around, you will also want something easy to park. You mentioned something like a Honda Civic, and wile that would certainly be a safe choice, I think you desire a little more punch under the hood.
I would suggest considering something in the lightly used luxury space, like the Audi A3. This compact sedan is basically a “fancy” GTI with four doors instead of five. Under the hood is the same turbocharged motor that cranks out about 220 horsepower; plenty of zip for moving through traffic. These can also be had with all-wheel drive which can come in handy on those bad weather days. Standard equipment includes CarPlay and other upgraded tech that make the commute a bit easier. And while this is a “compact” car it should be roomy enough on the inside to fit your frame comfortably.
But unlike the GTI which tends to go for a premium in the pre-owned market, the A3 has the typical luxury car depreciation making it a better value for your dollar. Here is a 2020 model with only 21,000 miles right in your budget zone.