Aug 14, 2025
Driving PEXELS

What is a Good Back-to-School Vehicle for My Child?

With kids going back to school soon, now is the perfect time to shop for a safe and reliable vehicle for them to drive. Thelen Auto Group in Bay City, Michigan, offers a wide variety of gently used makes and models that are perfect for any driver. Be sure to stop into our dealership to view our inventory and take one for a test drive! Below, we will outline some key considerations to keep in mind when initiating the shopping process.

What Should I Look For in a Back-to-School Vehicle?

  • SUVs – Top-rated SUVs are both family-friendly and provide ample space for students and their families. Thelen Auto Group currently has a great variety of preowned SUVs, including this 2025 Subaru Outback Premium with low mileage and a list of incredible amenities like a rearview camera, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity, and keyless entry.
  • Hatchbacks – While not known for their spacious interiors, hatchbacks are perfect for students who don’t want a larger vehicle but appreciate great fuel efficiency. We currently have this 2024 Kia Soul LX, which would turn heads at any school. It is equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine to get an EPA-estimated 29 MPG city/35 MPG highway fuel economy. Plus, it’s a one-owner with a clean vehicle history report!
  • Range of Safety Features – We recommend looking for a vehicle with a range of advanced safety technologies and high safety ratings to ensure a safe drive for younger drivers. Whether you’re looking for a sedan, a hatchback, or an SUV, we offer a variety of preowned vehicles to choose from that offer high safety standards and a great selection of safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, rearview camera, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

(Photo Credit: PEXELS)